Apple has released the second beta version of iOS 26. At first glance, the update seems unspectacular, but one detail stands out: a new clownfish wallpaper with an unusual resolution. It doesn't match any currently available device, but it hints at a possible new iPhone model—the iPhone 17 Air.
Apple uses beta versions not only to fix bugs, but often also to prepare for upcoming hardware releases. iOS 26 Beta 2 contains a wallpaper that technically doesn't match the current iPhones. The resolution it contains suggests a device that hasn't been unveiled yet. Combined with previous leaks and rumors, this could be the iPhone 17 Air, expected for fall 2025.
Clownfish wallpaper with new resolution
iOS 26 Beta 2 includes an updated version of the clownfish wallpaper. This motif was first shown with the original iPhone in 2007 and most recently reintroduced with iOS 16 in 2022. What's new this time isn't the motif itself, but the technical implementation. The wallpaper has a resolution of 420 x 912 pixels. Converted to Retina 3x, that corresponds to 1260 x 2736 pixels. This resolution doesn't match any current iPhone. It lies between the iPhone 16 Pro (1179 x 2556 pixels) and the iPhone 16 Pro Max (1290 x 2796 pixels). This suggests that Apple is testing a new mid-range device. This is where the iPhone 17 Air, which has already been speculated about (via 9to5mac ), comes into play.
iPhone 17 Air: Intermediate model with new design
According to previous reports, the iPhone 17 Air will feature a display with a resolution of 1260 x 2740 pixels—almost identical to the resolution of the new clownfish wallpaper. The screen size also fits the picture: The display is said to be 6.6 inches. For comparison: The iPhone 16 Pro measures 6.27 inches, and the iPhone 16 Pro Max 6.8 inches. The 17 Air would therefore fit right in between. The design of the iPhone 17 Air is expected to be significantly different from the current lineup. A particularly slim case with a focus on looks is expected. It will likely feature upgrades: A 120 Hz ProMotion display is very likely, which would clearly differentiate it from simpler models like the iPhone 16e.
Apple is apparently testing new devices with iOS 26
The fact that Apple is using this new resolution in the beta version of iOS 26 suggests that internal tests with a corresponding device are already underway. Typically, such wallpaper assets only appear when used on a specific target device. This suggests that the iPhone 17 Air is already in an advanced development phase.
iPhone 17 Air appears indirectly for the first time in iOS 26
The second developer beta of iOS 26 provides the first technical clue about the iPhone 17 Air. The special resolution of the new clownfish wallpaper doesn't match any previous device, but it exactly matches the expected specifications of the 17 Air. The device is expected to feature a 6.6-inch display, 1260 x 2740 pixel resolution, and a sleek design. Its integration into iOS 26 suggests that Apple is already testing the device. Anyone interested in new iPhone models should keep an eye on the upcoming betas. (Image: MajinBuOfficial / X)
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