Apple will launch a completely new iPhone model in fall 2025: the iPhone 17 Air. It replaces the previous Plus model and features a completely new design. Particularly striking is the ultra-thin form factor, making the device one of the slimmest smartphones ever. But it's not just the design that's intriguing. The iPhone 17 Air features a total of seven major innovations that could make it an interesting alternative to the Pro models.
Apple is constantly testing new concepts in its iPhone lineups. The iPhone mini and iPhone Plus each served a niche, but the iPhone 17 Air could set a new direction for future iPhone models. With its ultra-thin chassis, an optimized display, and some features previously reserved for the Pro models, the question arises whether the iPhone 17 Air represents the perfect middle ground between standard and Pro models. Here are the seven most important innovations in detail.
Ultra-thin design – the slimmest iPhone ever
Apple is drastically reducing the thickness of the iPhone 17 Air. Reportedly, the device will be just 5.5 mm thick at its thinnest point. This makes it significantly slimmer than current iPhones, which measure between 7.8 mm and 8.25 mm. Even the iPhone 6, which was considered the thinnest, was thicker at 6.9 mm. This design could not only make the iPhone 17 Air look more modern but also ensure particularly comfortable handling and improved portability. However, it remains to be seen how the thinner design will affect battery life and the device's durability.
New 6.6-inch display as the optimal middle ground
The iPhone 17 Air has a 6.6-inch display, which is exactly between the sizes of the Pro models. For comparison:
- iPhone 17 Pro: 6.3 inches
- iPhone 17 Pro Max: 6.9 inches
- iPhone 17 Air: 6.6 inches
With this display size, the iPhone 17 Air could be of interest to users who find the Pro Max too large and the Pro too small. The ultra-thin form factor should make the device feel comfortable to hold despite the larger display.
Always-On Display and higher refresh rate
Since 2022, there has been a clear distinction between the Pro models and the standard iPhones:
- The Pro models have an Always-On Display
- They support a refresh rate of 120 Hz (ProMotion)
Until now, users of the standard models had to do without these features. But the iPhone 17 Air will offer a significant improvement. It will feature an always-on display for the first time and support a higher refresh rate of 90 Hz or even 120 Hz. If Apple opts for 90 Hz, that would already be a major step forward. However, if the iPhone 17 Air actually gets the full 120 Hz ProMotion technology, it could almost feel like a Pro model—and that would be a real game changer.
A19 chip: More performance for everyday use
Apple is using the new A19 chip in the iPhone 17 Air, while the Pro models will be equipped with a more powerful A19 Pro. The differences between these two chips are likely to be particularly noticeable in demanding tasks such as high-quality photo and video editing or demanding games. For normal use, the A19 chip will be more than sufficient. Apple is known for delivering excellent performance even with its standard iPhones, so the iPhone 17 Air is unlikely to compromise on speed and efficiency.
48 MP main camera with new “bar” design
One of the most striking design changes concerns the camera. While the Pro models continue to feature three rear cameras, the iPhone 17 Air features a single 48-megapixel main camera. The so-called "bar" design is interesting. While Apple typically arranges the camera lenses in a separate module, the camera bar on the iPhone 17 Air will appear as a continuous element on the back. How this will affect photo quality remains to be seen.
24 MP front camera for better selfies
The iPhone's selfie camera has previously lagged significantly behind the main cameras. While the rear cameras have been equipped with ever-increasing megapixel counts, the front camera has long remained at 12 MP. With the iPhone 17 Air, Apple is now doubling the resolution of the front camera to 24 MP. This should result in significantly sharper selfies and better image quality in video calls.
Apple's own 5G modem for better connectivity
Apple has previously relied on 5G modems from Qualcomm, but that's changing with the iPhone 17 Air. Apple is launching its own 5G modem, which is being tested for the first time in the iPhone SE 4 and will later be used in the iPhone 17 Air. This new modem could provide greater integration between hardware and software. However, there are reports that it can't keep up with current Qualcomm modems in all areas. How this will play out in practice remains to be seen.
Is the iPhone 17 Air worth it?
The iPhone 17 Air could be the most interesting addition to the iPhone lineup in years. The combination of an ultra-thin design, larger display, improved camera system, and Apple's own 5G modem makes it an attractive alternative for users who want a modern iPhone without the Pro price tag. Particularly exciting is the question of whether Apple will offer the Always-On Display with a 90 Hz or 120 Hz refresh rate. If the iPhone 17 Air does indeed receive ProMotion, it could be a serious alternative to the iPhone 17 Pro. With the new model, Apple is likely initiating not only a design change but possibly also a new product strategy. The iPhone 17 Air could be the beginning of a completely new iPhone generation. The best products for you: Our Amazon Storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including HomeKit-compatible ones. (Photo by Unsplash / Semeon Hrozian)
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