As a tech reviewer, I recently submitted my critique of the Galaxy S25 Edge, offering a score that fell short of expectations. My hope was that the trend of ultra-thin smartphones would come to a halt before it gained traction. However, the unveiling of the iPhone Air has made it clear that this trend is here to stay. While I remain skeptical about the practicality of a phone that measures just 5mm thick, I must discuss the potential pitfalls that both Apple and consumers may face.
Initially, my biggest concern regarding the rise of ultra-thin phones was their durability. When I first started using the Galaxy S25 Edge, I anticipated issues such as bending or warping over time, similar to problems seen in previous iPad Pro models. Surprisingly, my worries were unfounded. The phone has withstood everyday wear and tear without any signs of damage, likely due to the reduced space within its frame. Unlike larger devices, which can flex and warp due to excess space, the compact design of the Galaxy S25 Edge has proven to be resilient.
Given that the iPhone Air also boasts a Grade 5 titanium frame, I expect it to offer similar durability. Both devices are IP68 certified, meaning they should be resistant to water and dust, a reassuring factor for those who enjoy outdoor activities. However, I do worry that the iPhone Air's new camera peninsula may make it slightly top-heavy, increasing the risk of it slipping out of pockets, especially while sitting on the beach.
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: battery life. A thinner frame inherently means a smaller battery and limited room for cooling technology. While I hope that Apple’s renowned optimization can compensate for the slim design, I remain skeptical. Apple has already mentioned that the iPhone Air is expected to deliver about three hours less battery life than the standard iPhone 17. This raises concerns about its long-term performance as software updates could further diminish battery efficiency.
My expectations for the iPhone Air are shaped by my experiences with the Galaxy S25 Edge, which we subjected to rigorous testing. Unfortunately, the Galaxy S25 Edge's small 3,900mAh battery underperformed compared to its counterparts, failing to deliver adequate battery life despite its sleek design. While it may initially seem to last a day, the potential for battery drain over time is concerning. In my own experience with the iPhone 16 after updating to the iOS 26 public beta, I noticed significant battery life reductions, suggesting that the same could happen with the iPhone Air.
Last but not least, let’s discuss the camera capabilities of the iPhone Air. Apple may tout its advanced technology, but the reality is that this device features only one camera on the front and one on the back. Despite claims that it has four sensors, this misleading information does not equate to the flexibility and functionality provided by multiple lenses. The iPhone Air comes equipped with a 48MP wide camera capable of a central crop for 2x zoom, but that’s where its capabilities end.
In comparison, the Galaxy S25 Edge includes two rear cameras, offering greater versatility. While the quality of the iPhone Air's single lens may suffice for basic photography, its lack of an ultrawide lens and limited zoom capabilities will likely disappoint photography enthusiasts. If I wanted a single camera for $1,000, I might as well venture into film photography.
In summary, while I remain hopeful that Apple can defy my expectations, the challenges posed by the iPhone Air—including its durability, battery life, and camera limitations—are significant. Samsung's own struggles with the Galaxy S25 Edge serve as a cautionary tale, and I am eager to see whether Apple can truly deliver on its promises. Only time will tell.
