Apple is reportedly preparing to launch a new model in its iPhone 17 series, known as the iPhone 17 Air. This ultra-thin, lightweight device is expected to replace the ‘Plus’ model in the lineup, offering a unique alternative between the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro models. According to industry sources and a research note from analyst Jeff Pu of Haitong International, the iPhone 17 Air is anticipated to hit the market in September next year.
The iPhone 17 Air is rumoured to feature a lightweight aluminium body, making it sleeker and more portable than the titanium-clad Pro models. The shift from the ‘Plus’ model to the ‘Air’ designation signals a focus on slimness and portability, a common trend for Apple’s “Air” branded products. The new iPhone 17 Air is expected to have a brand-new design, with a refined and ultra-thin profile that sets it apart from its heavier counterparts.
Apple is reportedly equipping the iPhone 17 Air with a 6.6-inch display, offering an expansive screen without the bulk typically associated with larger smartphones. The 6.6-inch display should deliver sharp visuals and high brightness, making it an appealing choice for media consumption and everyday use.
Under the hood, the iPhone 17 Air is likely to be powered by Apple’s latest A19 chipset. The A19 processor, built on a 3-nanometer architecture, is expected to provide enhanced performance and efficiency. According to Jeff Pu, the A19 chipset could be paired with 8GB of RAM, ensuring smooth multitasking and fast app loading times. The A19’s architecture will likely mirror the A18 Pro chipset found in the iPhone 16 Pro models, providing comparable processing power for less-intensive tasks.
On the camera front, the iPhone 17 Air is expected to come with a single 48MP rear camera. This camera sensor will likely enable high-resolution images with advanced computational photography features. While the exact camera capabilities remain under wraps, the 48MP sensor could offer improved low-light performance and more detailed photography compared to previous models.
For selfies and video calls, the iPhone 17 Air is rumoured to include a 24MP front-facing camera. Combined with Apple’s renowned Face ID technology, users can expect seamless security and facial recognition capabilities.
In addition to the camera upgrades and design changes, the iPhone 17 Air is tipped to come with new Apple Intelligence features. These AI-driven capabilities could enhance the phone’s performance, optimizing tasks like photography, voice assistance, and app usage to provide a smoother user experience.
While details about these features remain scarce, Apple’s focus on artificial intelligence suggests that the iPhone 17 Air could incorporate innovative AI tools designed to compete with the growing intelligence in other flagship smartphones.
The iPhone 17 Air is expected to be launched in September next year, continuing Apple’s tradition of annual fall releases. Though these features are based on industry rumours and reports, the final design and specifications may evolve before the official launch.
As Apple gears up for its next major release, the iPhone 17 Air promises to be an exciting addition to the iPhone lineup, combining lightweight design with powerful performance and advanced camera features.