iPhone 17 Air: Launch Date, Cost, Features, and Everything We Know
As excitement grows for Apple’s forthcoming smartphones, the iPhone 17 Air stands out as one of the most captivating new additions to the next iPhone series. Set to take the place of the iPhone Plus model, the iPhone 17 Air is anticipated to deliver an innovative design, state-of-the-art features, and a possible insight into Apple’s foldable ambitions. Here’s all we know about the iPhone 17 Air so far.
Launch Date
Apple typically reveals its new iPhones in September, and the iPhone 17 Air is projected to adhere to this timeline. Following Apple’s usual release pattern, it is likely that the iPhone 17 Air will be announced in the second week of September 2025, with preorders commencing soon after. The expected official launch date is Friday, September 19, 2025.
Production for the iPhone 17 Air is already in progress, with reports indicating that Apple is initiating early manufacturing operations in both China and India. This marks a significant shift, as it is the first instance of Apple producing a new iPhone model outside of China, reflecting a change in its global supply chain strategy.
Name: Slim or Air?
There has been some discussion regarding the name of the iPhone Plus successor. Initial leaks referred to the device as the “iPhone 17 Slim,” but more recent sources indicate that Apple may choose to go with the name “iPhone 17 Air.” This aligns with Apple’s established naming conventions for lightweight and slim devices such as the MacBook Air and iPad Air. While the definitive name won’t be confirmed until Apple makes its official announcement, “Air” seems to be the leading candidate.
Design and Display
The iPhone 17 Air is expected to showcase a significant redesign, emphasizing thinness and portability. Various sources suggest the device’s thickness could be as low as 5.5mm, making it the thinnest iPhone to date. Even with the camera protrusion, the maximum thickness may only reach 9.5mm.
To achieve this extremely slim design, Apple may utilize a titanium frame and implement an eSIM-only model. Rumors point to a 6.6-inch OLED display, and some reports suggest it may support ProMotion (120Hz refresh rate) and Always-On Display—features that have previously been exclusive to Pro models.
A dummy unit and 3D-printed models based on leaked design specifications have appeared, offering a sneak peek of what the iPhone 17 Air might resemble. The design is said to include a single or dual rear camera configuration, an Action Button, and possibly a new Camera Control button.
Performance and Specifications
The iPhone 17 Air is expected to feature Apple’s upcoming A19 chip, which is likely to provide enhanced performance and energy efficiency. Reports indicate that Apple is developing two versions of the chip: the standard A19 and an A19 Pro variant, with the latter utilizing advanced TSMC manufacturing techniques.
In terms of memory, the iPhone 17 Air is predicted to come with 12GB of RAM—matching the Pro models and enabling advanced AI functionalities introduced with iOS 18 and future updates.
Connectivity
Apple is working to lessen its dependence on third-party suppliers by creating its own wireless chips. The iPhone 17 Air is anticipated to introduce Apple’s proprietary C1 chip, which will support Wi-Fi 6 and standard 5G connectivity. Ultimately, Apple aims to unify Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cellular technologies into a single chip.
Battery and Charging
Despite its slim profile, Apple is committed to ensuring the iPhone 17 Air provides competitive battery life. The company is expected to implement the same battery adhesive technology introduced with the iPhone 16, allowing for easier battery replacement via a low-voltage current.
To counterbalance the reduced battery size, Apple may incorporate more efficient components, which includes the C1 chip and a new OLED display driver. There are also rumors of fast charging capabilities of up to 35W.
Software and AI Features
The iPhone 17 Air will be released with iOS 19, which is currently under development. Although details are limited, iOS 19 is expected to feature a visual makeover and further integration of Apple Intelligence—Apple’s suite of AI-driven functionalities.
Key Apple Intelligence features anticipated on the iPhone 17 Air include:
– Writing Tools: Rewrite, proofread, and summarize texts across applications.
– Image Playground: Generate custom images using AI.
– Smart Photo Memories: Create narrative photo stories with AI assistance.
– Clean Up Tool: Eliminate unwanted objects from images.
– Enhanced Siri: Contextually aware voice assistant featuring ChatGPT integration.
These features will rely on on-device processing and Apple’s private cloud infrastructure, guaranteeing user confidentiality.
Storage and Pricing
Apple may unveil new storage options with the iPhone 17 lineup. The iPhone 17 Air is expected to provide 256GB and 512GB configurations. While earlier speculation hinted at a high price point of
