The iPhone 16 has barely hit store shelves, but all eyes are already on the iPhone 17, rumored for a 2025 release. If the leaks are accurate, Apple might be making some major changes.
Goodbye, Plus Models; Hello, iPhone 17 Air
Reports suggest Apple plans to ditch the Plus models and replace them with a new lineup called the iPhone 17 Air. This would be the first time Apple uses the “Air” branding for an iPhone, a name previously reserved for MacBooks and iPads. Earlier rumors referred to this model as the “iPhone Slim.”
While the iPhone 17 Air may not match the Plus models in specs, it will give consumers another unique option, fitting Apple’s strategy of offering a variety of choices in their lineup.
The Thinnest iPhone Yet
As the name implies, the iPhone 17 Air is expected to be ultra-thin. It could break records as the thinnest iPhone ever, overtaking the iPhone 6, which measured just 6.9 mm (0.27 inches).
To achieve this sleek design, Apple might have to trim down some features. Rumors indicate the Air will have:
- One rear camera instead of the usual multiple lenses.
- A single speaker.
- A smaller battery, which could mean shorter battery life.
The reduced battery size might raise concerns, but it’s too early to know if this will be a dealbreaker for users.
Screen Size: A Middle Ground
The iPhone 17 Air is rumored to feature a 6.6-inch display. For context, the iPhone 16 Pro has a 6.3-inch screen, and the 16 Pro Plus comes in at 6.7 inches. This makes the Air a middle-ground option for those who prefer something in between.
Already in the Works
Apple is known for testing concepts that never see the light of day, but the iPhone 17 Air appears to be moving forward. According to Digitimes, the device has entered the NPI (New Product Introduction) stage, a key step in manufacturing. This suggests Apple is serious about including it in the iPhone 17 lineup, possibly launching in September 2025.
Strong Rumors, More to Come
While nothing is official yet, these leaks seem credible. Stay tuned for more updates in the coming months as we learn about Apple’s plans for the iPhone 17 Air and the rest of the 2025 lineup.
