Apple to Potentially Introduce 'iPhone 17 Air' with Slimmer Design in 2025
Apple could replace the iPhone Plus with a new, thinner model dubbed ‘iPhone 17 Air’ featuring a redesigned body and advanced features.
Rumors surrounding Apple’s 2025 iPhone lineup suggest the company may discontinue the iPhone “Plus” model in favor of a new, slimmer device possibly called the “iPhone 17 Air.” The introduction of this new model represents a shift in Apple’s strategy, aiming to boost sales by offering a sleeker design positioned between the regular iPhone 17 and the iPhone 17 Pro.
Sources indicate the “iPhone 17 Air” will feature a significantly thinner design, reminiscent of the original 2008 MacBook Air. The device is expected to have an aluminum chassis rather than the titanium casing used for the Pro models. There is also speculation that Apple may reduce the size of the Dynamic Island, potentially due to the use of a smaller Face ID system.
Display experts have debated the exact screen size, with estimates ranging from 6.55 to 6.6 inches. This would place it below the iPhone 16 Plus, which has a 6.7-inch display. Apple is reportedly still testing different designs, so the final specifications could change.
The iPhone 17 Air is expected to support ProMotion technology, offering a refresh rate of up to 120Hz for smoother scrolling and video playback. Additionally, it will be capable of dropping down to a power-saving 1Hz, allowing for an always-on display feature, similar to the current Pro models. Another rumored feature is an anti-reflective coating that enhances scratch resistance.
In a significant shift, the rear cameras may be relocated to a top-center position—an unusual choice for Apple, whose iPhones have traditionally featured cameras in the top-left corner. Analysts suggest the device could feature just one rear camera, a stark contrast to the dual or triple-camera setups found on current models.
The iPhone 17 Air is also expected to come with 8GB of RAM and a 24-megapixel front-facing camera, a significant upgrade from the 12-megapixel camera in the iPhone 15 models. It will likely be powered by the A19 chip, which will be based on an optimized version of TSMC’s 3nm process.
As for the price, some reports suggest that the iPhone 17 Air may cost more than the Pro Max model, which starts at $1,199. Despite potentially lacking some features of the Pro line, the appeal of a slimmer, newly designed iPhone could justify the premium. However, other analysts believe it will replace the mid-tier Plus model in Apple’s lineup.
The introduction of the iPhone 17 Air represents Apple’s efforts to innovate its lineup while appealing to customers who prioritize both aesthetics and performance.