iPhone 17 Air: All the Rumors So Far
Explore the top seven enduring rumors about the highly anticipated iPhone 17 Air to date.
The New iPhone 17 Air: A Revolution in Slimness
Current rumors suggest that Apple may once again shake up its iPhone lineup next year. Following the underperformance of the mini and Plus models, Apple seems to be betting on the iPhone 17 Air (or possibly iPhone 17 Slim), with thinness as its main selling point.
An Ultra-Thin Design
The iPhone 17 Air is set to stand out with its almost non-existent depth. Until now, the 2014 iPhone 6 held the record with its 6.9mm thickness. However, reports suggest Apple might break this record with the iPhone Air, potentially reaching a thickness of just 6mm while still accommodating the battery, display, and camera system.
Innovative Screen Technologies
One way Apple could achieve a thinner iPhone is through an OLED screen equipped with a new technology called “touch and display driver integration” (TDDI), which combines touch and display layers into one. This could reduce physical bulk. All iPhone 17 models are expected to feature ProMotion, Apple’s term for a 120 Hz refresh rate, marking the first time non-Pro iPhones would surpass 60 Hz.
A Simpler Camera
Apple might simplify things with the iPhone 17 Air by using a single 48 MP rear lens, dropping the ultra-wide-angle lens for a cleaner look. While this might seem like a downgrade, Apple has effectively used pixel binning to simulate 2x zoom on models without a telephoto lens, potentially keeping the average user experience unaffected.
In-House Wi-Fi and 5G
The iPhone 17 range, including the new Slim model, might be the first to feature an Apple-designed Wi-Fi chip. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggests this move primarily aims to cut costs. While the impact on wireless performance is uncertain, this change could further integrate Apple’s ecosystem.
Since 2018, rumors have circulated about Apple developing its own 5G modem, which might finally materialize with the iPhone 17 Slim. This would reduce Apple’s reliance on Qualcomm and likely lower production costs.
Performance and Price: A Delicate Balance
The arrival of a new iPhone typically brings a new chip. The iPhone 17 Air is expected to feature Apple’s A19 processor, promising improved single and multi-core performance, as well as better energy efficiency.
However, a potentially tough pill to swallow could be the high price tag. While the iPhone mini series was $100 cheaper than the standard iPhone, and the Plus model is currently $100 more expensive, rumors suggest the iPhone Air could be Apple’s most expensive smartphone yet, potentially exceeding the $1,199 asked for the iPhone 16 Pro Max. Whether the lightness and sleek design will justify the cost remains to be seen.