iPhone 17 Air: Apple’s Thinnest iPhone with New Display Size
Whenever a new iPhone from Apple is on the horizon, rumours and leaks dominate tech headlines. This year is no different. With the iPhone 17 series set to launch in September 2025, excitement in the market is at its peak. But what makes this year special is that Apple is introducing an entirely new model in its lineup — the iPhone 17 Air.
This model will not only replace the older Plus variant but will also change the equation of the entire series in terms of design and display size. Let’s take a closer look at what makes the iPhone 17 Air special, how it differs from other models, and also check out a side-by-side infographic comparing the iPhone 17 Air, Pro, and Pro Max.
The Arrival of ‘Air’ in the New Lineup
For years, Apple has launched its iPhone lineup based on standard and Pro models — the standard iPhone with its Plus variant, and then Pro and Pro Max. But the iPhone 17 series marks a change in this pattern.
This year, Apple will launch:
- iPhone 17 (Standard Model)
- iPhone 17 Pro
- iPhone 17 Pro Max
- iPhone 17 Air (Brand-new, ultra-thin design)
The iPhone 17 Air will take the place of previous large-screen phones like the iPhone 16 Plus, but with a completely different design and features.
Major Shift in Display Sizes
For the past few years, the display sizes of the standard and Pro models have been almost the same, and Plus and Pro Max sizes were also similar. This time, Apple has changed its display size strategy.
Here’s the new lineup’s display details:
| Model | Display Size | Display Type | Camera Setup |
|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone 17 | 6.1-inch | OLED, 120Hz | Dual Camera |
| iPhone 17 Air | 6.6-inch | OLED, 120Hz | Single Camera |
| iPhone 17 Pro | 6.3-inch | OLED, 120Hz | Triple Camera |
| iPhone 17 Pro Max | 6.9-inch | OLED, 120Hz | Triple Camera |
The iPhone 17 Air’s 6.6-inch display positions it between the Pro (6.3-inch) and Pro Max (6.9-inch), offering buyers a “large but not too heavy” option.
Apple’s Thinnest iPhone Yet
Another standout feature of the iPhone 17 Air is its design. At just 5.5mm thick, it will be Apple’s thinnest iPhone ever.
Apple has used lightweight aluminium for the frame and introduced a new soft-matte glass back. The Air variant will also stand out in colour options, offering pastel shades and modern finishes.
A Single Camera — But With a Twist
The iPhone 17 Air will feature a single 48MP camera — surprising, considering the Pro models come with a triple-camera setup including ultra-wide and telephoto lenses.
While some may see the single camera as a drawback, Apple’s focus here is on keeping the Air thin and light. Advanced software-based image processing and AI-powered enhancement features are expected to deliver impressive photography results.
Impact on Battery Life
A thinner design means a slightly smaller battery. Reports suggest the iPhone 17 Air’s battery life will not match the older Plus models.
However, Apple is addressing this with high-density silicon-anode battery technology and plans to launch an optional battery pack case to provide backup for extended use.
Performance: Powered by the A19 Chipset
The entire iPhone 17 series will come with the new Apple A19 Bionic chip, specially optimised for AI and machine learning tasks.
Additional key specs include:
- Minimum 8GB RAM (up to 12GB on Pro and Pro Max)
- Wi-Fi 7 support
- Apple’s in-house C1 modem for improved connectivity
- ProMotion 120Hz display on all models
These upgrades will not only make the phones faster but also enhance upcoming AI-based features such as “Apple Intelligence.”
Pricing and Positioning
In terms of pricing, the iPhone 17 Air will sit between the base model and the Pro model. It is aimed at customers who want something more premium than the base model but don’t want to pay Pro-level prices.
- iPhone 17 Air: Mid-high segment
- iPhone 17 Pro / Pro Max: High-end premium segment
- iPhone 17: Base premium segment
Launch Event and Date
According to reports, Apple will unveil the iPhone 17 series at a global event on 9 September 2025. After launch, it will first be available in the US, Europe, Japan, and select Asian markets. Pre-booking in India could begin in the second week of September.
iPhone 17 Air vs Pro vs Pro Max: Side-by-Side Infographic
| Feature / Specification | iPhone 17 Air | iPhone 17 Pro | iPhone 17 Pro Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.6″ OLED, 120Hz | 6.3″ OLED, 120Hz | 6.9″ OLED, 120Hz |
| Design / Thickness | 5.5mm ultra-thin | 7.8mm premium | 8.1mm max size |
| Processor | A19 Bionic | A19 Bionic | A19 Bionic |
| Camera Setup | 48MP single camera | Triple — Wide, Ultra‑Wide, Telephoto | Triple — Wide, Ultra‑Wide, Periscope Telephoto |
| Optical Zoom | Digital zoom only | 3.5x optical zoom | 5x periscope optical zoom |
| Battery Life | Light — slightly lower backup | Mid‑level backup | Largest — longest backup |
| RAM | 8GB | 12GB | 12GB |
| Design Focus | Lightest & thinnest | Professional & premium | Max size with max features |
| India (₹) | ₹90,000 | ₹1,25,000 | ₹1,50,000 |
| US ($) | $1,084 | $1,506 | $1,807 |
| Europe (€) | €989 | €1,374 | €1,648 |
| UK (£) | £841 | £1,168 | £1,402 |
| Japan (¥) | ¥160,714 | ¥223,214 | ¥267,857 |
| UAE (AED) | 3,982 AED | 5,531 AED | 6,637 AED |
| Best For | Those wanting a thin, light iPhone | Those prioritising camera & performance | Power users wanting the biggest screen |
Visual Captions
- iPhone 17 Air: “Defining sleekness in technology — Pro-like look, feather-light feel.”
- iPhone 17 Pro: “The powerful middle ground where premium experience meets camera magic.”
- iPhone 17 Pro Max: “The biggest and most powerful screen — for ultra-series enthusiasts.”
Foldable iPhone Preparations
Interestingly, Apple is reportedly viewing the iPhone 17 Air as a transitional product. Sources claim the company plans to launch its first foldable iPhone in 2026, featuring a 7.58-inch inner display.
The Air’s ultra-thin design will help Apple gain experience in building lightweight, flexible devices — essential for foldable technology.
Conclusion
The iPhone 17 Air is a model designed for those who prioritise a large screen, thin profile, and lightweight feel. It will appeal to buyers who want the Pro’s look and feel without the extra weight and cost.
While the single camera and slightly shorter battery life may be seen as compromises, Apple’s signature design, premium display, and fast processor make it a compelling choice.
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