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Apple will introduce the iPhone 17 Air in a few months – a completely new model that's not simply the next version of the iPhone Plus, but a fundamentally different approach. The first comparison images with the iPhone 16 Plus make it clear: The iPhone 17 Air will be significantly thinner, lighter, and more minimalist. Apple is focusing on reduction – in design, technology, and weight – while still promising a fully-featured user experience.
The iPhone 17 Air isn't just another iPhone, but a deliberately slimmed-down device with a focus on lightness and mobility. It's the first time Apple has applied the "Air" name to an iPhone – previously, it was primarily known from the MacBook and iPad series. This already sets the tone: slim, elegant, and light. What makes this model special are not only the technical details, but also the strategic attempt to permanently establish a fourth iPhone model in the product line. There were similar attempts with Mini or Plus versions before, but none of these models were able to maintain their long-term success.
Design: Thinner than ever before
The iPhone 17 Air is only 5.5 mm thick. In comparison , the iPhone 16 Plus, at around 7.8 mm, is almost clunky. There are also clear differences in weight: The Air weighs only 145 g. By comparison, the 16 Plus weighs around 201 g. The new model is therefore not only thinner but also significantly lighter in the hand. This reduction is possible because Apple has omitted certain hardware components. Among other things, there is no longer a dual camera, the second speaker is omitted, and the battery has also been reduced. Whether this is sufficient for everyday use remains to be seen, but for users who value design and portability above all else, the Air model should be of interest.
Display: Large, bright and fluid
Despite its slim design, Apple didn't skimp on the screen. The iPhone 17 Air features a 6.6-inch OLED display with ProMotion technology. This means smooth refresh rates of up to 120 Hz, vibrant colors, and good readability even in sunlight. This puts it on par with the Pro models, at least in terms of the display.
Technology: Less is more
Apple deliberately forgoes high-end cameras or oversized batteries in the Air. The model is aimed at users who want a good, fast iPhone with a high-quality display and a simple design, but don't care about additional features like zoom lenses or top-notch sound. For many, this should be perfectly sufficient – especially if the device is significantly slimmer and lighter.
Price: Surprisingly moderate
According to current rumors, the iPhone 17 Air will launch at the same price as the iPhone 16 Plus—around €1,099. Initial speculation suggested it could cost as much as €1,449, but Apple apparently wants to make it easier to get started with a more moderate price. Whether this will succeed remains to be seen, as there's plenty of competition in this price range—including from within Apple itself.
Production: Apple remains cautious
Apple's suppliers report that production of the iPhone 17 Air will initially only account for around 10 percent of the total iPhone capacity. This shows that Apple is being cautious. Demand is currently difficult to estimate. While the new design and the Air approach are attracting attention, whether the model will hold its own in everyday use remains to be seen. The iPhone 17 Air is already the third major attempt to permanently add a fourth model to the portfolio.
The iPhone 17 Air is a risk with potential
The iPhone 17 Air isn't a classic upgrade, but rather a clear design decision. Anyone looking for an ultra-light, extremely thin iPhone and willing to forgo some technical extras will find an exciting option here. The ProMotion display, in particular, elevates the model to a high level despite its reduced size. Whether it will be a success depends on how many users seek this concept. One thing is clear, however: With the iPhone 17 Air, Apple is testing the waters for future devices—possibly even foldable models. So it remains exciting. (Image: MajinBuOfficial / X)
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