The iPhone 17 lineup is generating significant buzz, particularly the ultra-thin “iPhone 17 Air” model, which is expected to set a new benchmark for smartphone slimness. TF Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has provided fresh insights into the device’s design, functionality, and potential market impact, sparking conversations about its ambitious engineering and compromises.
According to Kuo, the iPhone 17 Air could be as thin as 5.5mm at its thinnest point, a remarkable feat compared to the 6.9mm thickness of the iPhone 6, which held the record for the slimmest iPhone until now. This ultra-thin profile would also make it 30% thinner than the iPhone 16 series, putting it in a league with the latest iPad Pro models, which measure just 5.1mm and 5.3mm for the 13-inch and 11-inch versions, respectively. The device is rumored to achieve this slimness with a tapered or wedge-like design, reminiscent of older MacBook Air models. However, Kuo notes that this design could result in a more pronounced camera bump and potentially smaller internal components, such as the battery.
One significant change is the lack of a physical SIM card tray, as the iPhone 17 Air is expected to rely exclusively on eSIM technology. While this aligns with Apple’s push toward a portless future, it could pose challenges in markets like China, where physical SIM cards remain the norm. To achieve its ultra-thin design, the iPhone 17 Air will reportedly forgo some features in its Pro counterparts.
Furthermore, rumors suggest it will feature a single 48-megapixel rear camera instead of the dual or triple-camera systems typical in other models. And the slim form factor might necessitate a smaller battery, which could lead to reduced battery life—a critical consideration for users.
The device is positioned as a replacement for the iPhone 17 Plus, aiming to capture a different market segment. Despite its reduced specifications, Kuo predicts a higher price point than the current $899 iPhone 15 Plus. This pricing strategy, combined with the compromises in features, could dampen its appeal, especially among cost-sensitive buyers.
The iPhone 17 Air is expected to debut in September 2025 alongside the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max. While it may sell better than the iPhone Plus models it replaces, Kuo remains skeptical about its overall impact on iPhone sales, forecasting a potential 8-10% decline in 2025 sales due to the combination of high pricing, feature compromises, and limited market availability.
(via Medium)
