This autumn, the iPhone series will unveil an exciting new addition: the iPhone 17 Air. Apple is phasing out the Plus model, introducing a device with a sleek new design intended to attract Pro users. Here are seven standout features of the iPhone 17 Air.
Sleek and Ultra-thin Design
Continuing the trend established by Apple’s M4 iPad Pro, a hallmark of the iPhone 17 Air will be its remarkable thinness.
While specifics on the new model’s dimensions have varied, leading analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has reported that its slimmest profile will measure only 5.5mm, likely excluding the top camera section.
This represents a significant decrease in thickness from current iPhone models. The iPhone 16 Pro devices measure 8.25mm in thickness, while the base 16 and 16 Plus versions are 7.8mm thick.
The previous titleholder for thinnest iPhone was the iPhone 6, which reached a thickness of 6.9mm.
Brand New 6.6-inch Display
In addition to its ultra-thin design, the 17 Air is set to debut with a distinctive display that seeks to balance current size offerings.
The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max will feature displays measuring 6.3 inches and 6.9 inches, respectively, identical to the sizes in the iPhone 16 lineup.
In contrast, the iPhone 17 Air will be positioned midway between the two, boasting a 6.6-inch display. Thanks to its slender design, the 17 Air’s display might feel compact enough for Pro users yet offer sufficient real estate for fans of the Pro Max.
Always On Display and High Refresh Rate
Since 2022, a major distinction between Apple’s entry-level models and its Pro line has been two notable display features:
- Pro models feature an Always On display
- They also offer support for a high refresh rate of 120Hz ProMotion
Once accustomed to these features, it’s difficult to go without them.
Fortunately, for the first time, both the Always On feature and a version of ProMotion are anticipated to debut on the base iPhone 17 and 17 Air.
While rumors suggested a possible 90Hz refresh rate, credible sources have yet to confirm this for the 17 Air, which may instead get the complete 120Hz ProMotion feature. To preserve the best technology for the Pro versions, Apple might consider implementing a 90Hz refresh rate for both the 17 and 17 Air.
Powered by A19 Chip
Similar to the iPhone 16 lineup, Apple is set to introduce two new processors for its iPhone 17 models.
The standard iPhone 17 and 17 Air will feature the A19 chip, while the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max will be equipped with the A19 Pro chip.
The performance difference between the chips is expected to be minimal for everyday tasks, as the A19 will still perform brilliantly for AI, gaming, and other processes. However, the chip in the 17 Air may be somewhat less powerful compared to the A19 Pro.
Single Rear 48MP Camera with Innovative Design
As revealed in the leaked image above, the iPhone 17 Air is expected to have distinct features in its camera setup.
While the 17 Pro series will include three rear cameras and the base model will have two, the 17 Air will come with just one—a primary 48MP ‘Fusion’ camera.
Details surrounding this camera’s capabilities have been sparse, suggesting it may closely resemble the existing main camera on the iPhone 16 lineup.
Nonetheless, the exact advantages offered by the new ‘camera bar’ design for the 17 Air remain uncertain, so some intriguing surprises could be in store.
Upgraded 24MP Front Camera
The current iPhone’s front-facing camera is a modest 12MP, which has been underwhelming in comparison to the rear cameras.
Apple is rectifying this with a significant 24MP upgrade for the front camera on the iPhone 17 Air and all other iPhone 17 models.
While it’s unlikely that the new front camera will entirely match the quality of the rear camera, we can expect a noticeable improvement.
In-House 5G Modem by Apple
Finally, a connectivity feature exclusive to the iPhone 17 Air is the introduction of Apple’s in-house 5G modem.
Developed over several years, this chip will first be seen in the iPhone SE 4 scheduled for release in the spring, followed by its introduction in the iPhone 17 Air.
Though the new modem may not eclipse Qualcomm’s current 5G solutions, Apple’s close integration of hardware and software might yield unique advantages that counterbalance any shortcomings.
Summary of iPhone 17 Air Features
The iPhone 17 Air is poised to be the most intriguing fourth model in Apple’s lineup thus far. Unlike the iPhone mini and Plus, which catered to niche audiences, the 17 Air is set to redefine future iPhone designs. This fall’s iPhone launch season promises to be an exciting one.
Which features of the iPhone 17 Air are you most looking forward to? Will you be purchasing the new model? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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