Updated April 27 with the latest insights into this year’s iPhone 17 series, Apple is set to unveil a new lineup that promises to look distinct from its predecessors. Recent images reveal the innovative designs of the upcoming models, particularly the anticipated iPhone 17 Air, which could serve as a pivotal alternative within the iPhone family.
A recent report by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman in his weekly Power On newsletter provides intriguing details about the iPhone 17 Air. Gurman highlights a key question: will this model gain popularity among consumers? Historically, certain models in the iPhone lineup, such as the iPhone mini and iPhone Plus, have struggled to achieve strong sales. With the introduction of the iPhone 17 Air, Apple hopes to change that narrative.
Gurman expresses a cautious optimism regarding the iPhone 17 Air, suggesting that while it may not break sales records, it could perform significantly better than its predecessors. "My belief is that the Air line won’t set any sales records — and that most iPhone fans will still spring for the Pro-level models. But I think the Air will be far more popular and better for Apple’s bottom line than the mini or Plus phones,” he states.
Should the iPhone 17 Air live up to its name, it has the potential to rejuvenate the iPhone lineup. The Air concept, which has proven successful with Apple’s MacBook and iPad lines, could also pave the way for thinner iPhone Pro models and future foldable devices. Gurman notes that the iPhone 17 Air may serve a broader purpose, setting the stage for innovative designs in future releases.
Anticipation builds as consumers await the launch of the iPhone 17 series, especially with Samsung set to release its Galaxy S25 Edge, which will likely compete in the thin phone market. Recent images shared by respected leaker Sonny Dickson showcase four iPhone dummies, including the iPhone 17 Air, allowing fans to compare their sizes visually.
According to Dickson, the iPhone 17 Air stands out for its remarkable thinness, making it the slimmest iPhone model to date. Observations about the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max indicate they still include SIM card trays, suggesting that eSIM technology might not yet be globally adopted. This means that, similar to current iPhones, the iPhone 17 series may feature two versions: one for the U.S. market and another for international customers.
Interestingly, while the iPhone 17 Air may not show signs of a SIM card tray, it raises questions about its intended market. If released globally, the iPhone 17 Air could potentially be the first eSIM iPhone available outside the U.S., marking a significant shift in Apple's approach.
All four models in the iPhone 17 series, including the iPhone 17 Air, will reportedly feature the Camera Control introduced in the iPhone 16 series, countering previous reports that suggested it might be excluded from this model. However, the bottom edge of the Air shows fewer perforations compared to its counterparts, which might imply a trade-off in audio capabilities. The design choices here could reflect the challenges of creating a slimmer device.
In contrast, the iPhone 17 Pro Max appears to retain a more robust design, lending credence to reports that it will prioritize battery life over the slim profile of the Air model. As the launch date approaches, the excitement surrounding the iPhone 17 series continues to grow, with both consumers and industry analysts eager to see how these new features and designs will be received.
