Apple is set to redefine its product lineup with a radical new addition, the iPhone 17 Air. This device, poised to replace the Plus model, marks a fundamental shift in design philosophy. Instead of simply being a larger version of the standard phone, the iPhone 17 Air is rumored to be a new class of device, prioritizing an ultra-thin form factor above all else.
A Redefined Design
The defining feature of the iPhone 17 Air is its unprecedented thinness. Reports indicate the phone could measure as little as 5.5mm, making it the slimmest iPhone ever produced. To achieve this, compromises were made. The phone is expected to have a streamlined design with a new horizontal camera bar and simplified port. The display is rumored to be 6.6 inches, a touch smaller than its predecessor, with a 120Hz ProMotion refresh rate now standard across the entire iPhone 17 lineup. It is also expected to be the only model in the series with a titanium frame.
The Cost of Thinness
This groundbreaking design comes with two major trade-offs: camera and battery. The iPhone 17 Air is expected to feature a single 48MP rear camera. While capable, this is a significant departure from the multi-lens systems common on premium phones and a deliberate choice to maintain its thin profile.
Due to the limited internal space, the battery is also rumored to be smaller, potentially impacting all-day endurance for heavy users. To counter this, the phone will use a silicon anode battery for higher energy density.
Performance and Price
The iPhone 17 Air is slated to be powered by the new A19 chip and is expected to feature 12GB of RAM. It may also introduce Apple’s in-house C1 cellular modem.
Pricing for the iPhone 17 Air is a point of contention. Some reports suggest a starting price of around $949 (approx. ₱54,000), while others propose a higher entry point of $1,099 (approx. ₱62,500) with more base storage. The premium for its groundbreaking thinness may position it as a unique, design-centric choice in the market.
Given the rumored price range (₱54,000 to ₱62,500), do you think the iPhone 17 Air is priced fairly for its features?
Let us know!
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