Apple has an ambitious product launch schedule for 2025, with the ultra-slim iPhone 17 Air set to be one of the standout introductions. Recent whispers have led me to ponder a feature inspired by the MacBook Air that could easily capture my attention.
Rethinking the thickness of iPhone 17 Air
For some time now, rumors suggest that Apple will replace the ‘Plus’ model in the 2025 series with an ultrathin design.
Initially dubbed the ‘iPhone Slim,’ the name ‘iPhone 17 Air’ has become more widely accepted.
Multiple sources have attempted to clarify just how thin this new iPhone will be, with recent predictions settling around 6.25mm—about 25% thinner than the Pro variants.
However, last week, Ming-Chi Kuo revealed something intriguing.
He stated that the 17 Air would be even thinner, claiming “the thinnest part would be around 5.5mm.”
Two noteworthy aspects emerged: the 5.5mm figure itself and the mention of the iPhone’s ‘thinnest part.’
This latter description sparked speculation about whether Apple is considering a tapered design for the device—similar to the iconic look of the original MacBook Air.
5.5mm is significantly thinner than earlier estimates.
However, this rumor makes sense if the tapered design enables the 17 Air to be thinner at certain points while maintaining a slightly thicker profile in others.
The advantages of a tapered iPhone 17 Air design
The beloved wedge shape of the MacBook Air is cherished by many. Personally, I find the newer designs seen in the M2 models lack the same appeal.
Implementing a tapered design for the iPhone 17 Air would not only pay homage to Apple’s first ‘Air’ product but also address one of my main concerns: screen dimensions.
I’ve consistently used Apple’s smaller ‘Pro’ size iPhones for years and even enjoyed the iPhone mini at one point.
A major benefit I envision with the 17 Air is that it could make a larger display feel more manageable for me.
My preference for the smaller Pro size is driven by my need for one-handed usability, something the Pro Max does not facilitate.
This year’s flagship iPhones are anticipated to feature the following display sizes:
- iPhone 17 Pro: 6.3-inch
- iPhone 17 Pro Max: 6.9-inch
- iPhone 17 Air: 6.6-inch
The 17 Air falls in between the two Pro models, potentially providing an ideal compromise for many users.
I hope that the 17 Air’s sleeker, lighter design will allow for comfortable one-handed operation, despite its larger screen.
A tapered design would likely make achieving this goal easier for Apple.
If the lower half of the 17 Air—where my hand typically rests—could be its thinnest section, it would greatly mitigate the challenges posed by a larger display.
In essence, it could provide a bigger screen without the bulkiness associated with the Pro Max model. This would likely sway me towards the 17 Air rather than the 17 Pro.
What are your thoughts on the potential tapered design for the iPhone 17 Air? Share your opinion in the comments.
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