Apple is gearing up for the anticipated release of its thinnest smartphone ever, the iPhone 17 Air, later this year. Excitement is mounting as rumors suggest that this model will surpass the slim profile of the 6.9mm iPhone 6. Recent leaks have emerged, providing clearer insights into the expected specifications and design of the device, heightening interest among tech enthusiasts.
Over the past several months, speculation surrounding the dimensions of the iPhone 17 Air has varied significantly. A credible leak from renowned tipster Ice Universe suggests that the upcoming phone could measure a mere 5.5mm thick, aligning with an earlier prediction by analyst Ming-Chi Kuo made in January. In contrast, another analyst, Jeff Pu, hinted at a thickness closer to 6mm. This variation in estimates adds to the intrigue surrounding Apple's latest innovation.
While Kuo has indicated that the iPhone 17 Air will feature a 6.6-inch screen, Ice Universe contends that the display size will actually be 6.9 inches, mirroring the dimensions of the iPhone 17 Pro Max. Both models are rumored to share similarities in “length, width, screen size, and bezel” with the iPhone 16 Pro Max. Recently, a video surfaced showcasing a render of the device, further fueling speculation about its design.
On Friday, YouTuber iDeviceHelp released a video in partnership with leaker Majin Bu, who had previously shared similar renders. In this video, they presented mockups of the standard, Pro Max, and Air models “based on internal documents.” One notable aspect from the mockups is the striking resemblance to the 5.1mm 13-inch M4 iPad Pro, the only Apple device rumored to be thinner than the upcoming iPhone 17 Air.
Another feature that caught viewers' attention in the mockups is the Google Pixel-like camera bar that extends horizontally across the back of the iPhone 17 Air and Pro Max models. While it remains unclear whether this design choice is merely aesthetic or functional, it is a welcomed change for many users. The current iPhone 15 Pro tends to wobble when laid on its back, and the camera bar appears to provide a solution to this issue. However, the rear cameras still protrude from the bar, suggesting that there may still be room for improvement in future models.
The mockups and renders indicate that the iPhone 17 Air will maintain button placements consistent with current iPhone models (excluding the iPhone 16E, which omits the Camera Control button). Additionally, users can expect a USB-C port and speaker holes located at the bottom of the device. The front of the phone is also anticipated to feature Dynamic Island technology and Face ID capabilities, enhancing the overall user experience.
As the launch date approaches, the tech community eagerly awaits Apple's official reveal, expected to occur in September. Until then, the iPhone 17 Air remains shrouded in speculation, with leaks and renders offering tantalizing glimpses into what may be one of the most exciting smartphone releases of the year.
