Apple is set to introduce the iPhone 17 series in 2025. This time, there's a new addition to the lineup, the iPhone 17 Air. It's meant to provide a middle ground between the entry-level iPhone 17 and the premium Pro versions.
Wondering which one to choose? Let’s explore launch, price, and spec details of both the models along with a thorough comparison.
Here is a full rundown of both models:
The iPhone 17 Air will come with a slender, super-slim body. It is the slimmest Apple iPhone to date. It will boast a 6.6-inch OLED display, bigger than the iPhone 17 but smaller than Pro Max. This screen will provide a 120Hz ProMotion refresh rate.
iPhone 17 Air may employ LTPO technology, which makes for smooth scrolling and an always-on display. Samsung will most likely provide the OLED panel, which will be 30% brighter and longer-lasting than the latest models.
By comparison, the iPhone 17 will boast a 6.1-inch OLED screen. It will also offer 120Hz ProMotion but will still keep the recognizable Dynamic Island look. The screen will provide clear pictures and better power efficiency.
Both phones will be driven by Apple's A19 chip. This chip uses a more efficient 3nm process from TSMC. The iPhone 17 Air will make a giant leap with Apple's internal 5G modem. This modem is capable of sub-6GHz 5G but won't have mmWave. However, the battery may last as it will consume less power.
The standard iPhone 17 will also pack the A19 chip but will keep utilizing Qualcomm's 5G modems. RAM on both models is also anticipated to be 8GB, ensuring smooth app and multitasking performance.
The iPhone 17 Air is speculated to feature one 48MP camera at the back. It is the same sensor used in the iPhone 16 Pro. It will provide crisper and more detailed images. The latest front camera will receive a major boost to 24MP, making selfies very clear.
At the same time, the iPhone 17 will boast a dual-camera system. It will have a 12MP primary lens and a 12MP ultra-wide lens. The front camera will also receive the 24MP boost, promising improved video calls and selfies.
Despite its slender form factor, the iPhone 17 Air should come with good battery life. Apple might use dense battery cells to ensure this. The phone will also support 35W fast wired charging and 15W MagSafe wireless charging.
Base iPhone 17 battery details are still not confirmed. It is likely to perform similarly to the iPhone 17 Air. Users are expecting advancements in wireless chips and heat management to increase battery life.
The two phones will feature the latest Wi-Fi 7 standard and Bluetooth 5.3 or 5.4. Apple's proprietary wireless chip will probably handle these connections. The two phones will have eSIM support, but only the iPhone 17 can retain the physical SIM tray. According to sources, the iPhone 17 Air could drop the tray to maintain its slim design.
The iPhone 17 Air will likely range from US$799 to US$899 (₹68,000 to ₹77,000). This puts the pricing right in the middle of Apple’s starting range and the more expensive Pro models. On the other hand, iPhone 17 is expected to be cheaper. It will probably start at a price just below US$799.
Apple has not announced the official release date yet. However, according to reports, both phones may launch in early September 2025, perhaps on September 8 or 9. Shipments will likely start around mid-September.
The following table shows the difference between iPhone 17 Air and iPhone 17 at a glance:
| Feature | iPhone 17 Air | iPhone 17 (Base) |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.6-inch OLED, 120Hz ProMotion | ~6.1-inch OLED, 120Hz ProMotion |
| Design | Ultra-thin, possibly no SIM tray | Standard thickness, SIM tray likely present |
| Chipset | A19 + Apple-designed 5G modem | A19 + Qualcomm 5G modem |
| RAM | 8GB | 8GB |
| Rear Camera | 48MP single lens | Dual 12MP (main + ultra-wide) |
| Front Camera | 24MP | 24MP |
| Battery & Charging | High-density battery, 35W wired, 15W MagSafe | Similar battery, charging not yet confirmed |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, eSIM only | Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3, SIM + eSIM |
| Price (Estimated) | $799–$899 (₹68,000–₹77,000 approx.) | Lower than Air, exact not yet confirmed |
| Launch Date | September 2025 | September 2025 |
Now, for those who are confused about which one to get, here’s the target consumer group of each model:
iPhone 17 Air: This is ideal for users who want a premium design, larger display, and a sleek build but don't require all the Pro model features.
iPhone 17: The entry-level model is perfect for customers who need core Apple features and solid performance at the most affordable price. It provides good performance and excellent cameras, but omits features such as Apple's bespoke 5G modem. If you are upgrading from an older generation, the iPhone 17 provides great value.
Ultimately, choosing between iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Air depends on one’s buying capacity, personal needs, and design preference.