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iPhone 17 Air: Apple is reportedly preparing to shake up its iPhone lineup once again—and this time, with a brand-new name: iPhone 17 Air. The new model is expected to debut alongside the rest of the iPhone 17 series in September 2025, replacing last year’s iPhone 16 Plus.

Just like the Plus models replaced the Mini variants in the iPhone 14 lineup, the iPhone 17 Air seems to be the next step in Apple’s effort to refine its non-Pro offerings. But where exactly does the Air sit in the iPhone hierarchy? Is it a premium device or a middle-ground option?

Let’s break it down.

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Not a Pro Replacement—And Not Trying to Be One

Despite the sleek new name, don’t expect the iPhone 17 Air to challenge the Pro models. In fact, current leaks and analyst reports suggest it will land somewhere between the standard iPhone 17 and the iPhone 17 Pro.

One of the clearest signs is in the camera setup. While the iPhone 17 Pro will likely continue with its multiple-lens system, the iPhone 17 Air is expected to feature a single rear camera—a step down in versatility compared to both the Pro and standard iPhone 17, which reportedly keeps its dual-camera layout.

Display and Chip: A Mixed Bag

The iPhone 17 Air may land in the 6.3–6.5 inch display range and is expected to support a 120 Hz refresh rate. However, don’t expect Apple’s ProMotion tech or LTPO panels here. That means the display likely won’t feature adaptive refresh down to 1 Hz, which is a mainstay on Pro models for power efficiency.

Under the hood, the Air will reportedly run on the A19 chip, the same next-gen 3 nm chipset expected in the standard iPhone 17. That means strong performance, though not at the level of the A19 Pro chip reserved for the Pro and Pro Max.

Reports also suggest 12GB of RAM across all iPhone 17 models, including the Air. So while the camera and display tech may be a notch below the Pros, the core performance should be on par with the standard iPhone 17.

A Slim and Stylish Comeback for Minimalist Fans

Where the iPhone 17 Air is expected to shine is in its form factor. Industry insiders, including trusted analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, suggest this could be Apple’s slimmest iPhone ever—possibly even thinner than the iPhone 6. We're talking around 5.8 mm, making it a true standout for fans of minimalist, ultra-sleek designs.

If you’ve been waiting for an iPhone that puts design and portability above specs and camera count, the Air might be your ideal match.

Shared Materials, New Strategy

One other significant change: Apple will supposedly employ aluminium and glass throughout the entirety of the iPhone 17 series, right up to the Pro models. This is a departure from the titanium construction we witnessed with the iPhone 15 Pro range, which indicates a more consistent strategy for design materials across levels.

So the Air won't get all the frills of the Pro, but it could still provide a premium feel and look—just in a thinner, more streamlined package.

Final Thoughts: A Middle Ground With Flair

The iPhone 17 Air appears to be Apple's solution for those seeking something more than the base iPhone but aren't looking for the full Pro experience. It sacrifices camera flexibility and screen technology for aesthetics, thinness, and adequate performance, moving into a new middle ground.

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If everything pans out as expected, we’ll see the iPhone 17 Air officially launched this September 2025. Until then, we’ll keep tracking the leaks and updates as they unfold.