Apple is preparing to launch the iPhone 17 Air, aiming for a radical design change with a thickness of less than 6mm. This would make it significantly thinner than the current iPhone 16 and even the slimmest iPhone to date, the iPhone 6 (6.9mm).
To achieve this ultra-thin design, Apple is reportedly making several compromises. The iPhone 17 Air will feature an aluminum frame instead of titanium, like the rest of the iPhone 17 lineup. It will also have a single earpiece speaker, Apple's potentially less reliable 5G modem (without mmWave support), a single rear camera with a large centered bump, and possibly no SIM tray, limiting it to eSIM only.
These compromises raise concerns about functionality and market availability, especially in China where eSIM-only devices face restrictions. However, the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro/Pro Max models will offer more conventional features for users less concerned with thinness.
The iPhone 17 Pro models are also rumored to undergo design changes, featuring a part-aluminum, part-glass construction reminiscent of the Google Pixel's design. The camera bump will reportedly be rectangular and made of aluminum, a departure from the square glass bumps of recent iPhones. For users interested in stylish cases for their current Apple Watches, check out Stylish Apple Watch Series 9 Cases for Every Need.
These design changes suggest Apple is exploring new materials and aesthetics for its flagship devices. While the iPhone 17 Air's extreme thinness may appeal to some, the compromises involved might deter others. Those looking for Black Friday deals on Apple products can explore options at Apple Black Friday 2024 Deals. For those interested in other foldable phone options, Samsung Galaxy Z Flip FE: Affordable Foldable Phone might be of interest.