According to a recent report by The Wall Street Journal, the upcoming iPhone 17 Air will be priced lower than the iPhone Pro models, which counters the prevailing belief that this ultra-slim model would be more expensive than even the iPhone Pro Max. Given this news, the device seems to be a more attractive option than ever.
New Pricing Speculation
A fresh report from The Wall Street Journal sheds light on the anticipated iPhone 17 Air:
Beginning next year, Apple intends to launch an iPhone that will be slimmer than the current models’ roughly 8-millimeter thickness, according to sources familiar with the company’s plans. This new model is aimed at being more affordable than the Pro variants and will feature a simplified camera system to help minimize costs.
This information contradicts earlier claims. Back in May, The Information provided some initial insights about the device, noting:
The slimmer model might be unveiled alongside the iPhone 17, expected around September 2025, as stated by sources directly informed about the project. They indicated that it could be priced higher than the iPhone Pro Max, which currently starts at $1,200.
Significance of the Change
Clearly, a price point exceeding that of the iPhone Pro Max implies a cost of at least $1199, potentially reaching as high as $1299 for a thinner iPhone that offers fewer features, reduced battery life, and a single camera. This pricing seemed unreasonable. Although it might have appeared visually appealing and hinted at a trajectory for thinner future devices, it wouldn’t have justified the cost.
Moreover, recent reports indicate that the iPhone 17 Air might lack a second speaker, depending solely on the earpiece for audio playback. With numerous compromises, paying a premium for this model would have been hard to rationalize.
Nonetheless, if the recent claims are accurate, we can now anticipate a price for the Air version that is lower than the Pro models. It remains uncertain how this affects pricing, as a hike for the iPhone 17 Pro is still a possibility. However, the iPhone 17 Air is expected to be priced below $1000, and if the iPhone 17 Pro doesn’t see a price increase, the Air could potentially start at around $899, matching the price of the iPhone 16 Plus.
This adjustment significantly enhances its value proposition, making the new model potentially up to $400 cheaper than previously anticipated.
Conclusion
While there may still be trade-offs with battery life and the absence of a dual-camera setup compared to the iPhone 16 Plus, along with the lack of a second speaker, the allure of acquiring a sleek, thinner iPhone at last year’s price is enticing. Apple likely believes this will captivate consumers. This release marks the first time in many years that an iPhone will feature a substantially different design from its predecessor.
Additionally, differing from the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus, the base models of the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Air will include 120Hz ProMotion displays, elevating their appeal to tech enthusiasts.
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