**Apple’s Anticipated iPhone 17 Air: What to Anticipate**
In the coming week, Apple plans to reveal its latest iPhone collection, which will prominently feature the phasing out of the iPhone 16 Plus. Replacing it, Apple is anticipated to launch a new variant, provisionally called the iPhone 17 Air. This fresh device is promised to showcase a notably slimmer build, with a chassis thickness of around 5.5mm at its narrowest point. Nevertheless, this streamlined design comes with a downside in terms of camera features, as the iPhone 17 Air will incorporate only a solitary rear lens.
### Cost Expectations
As the release draws near, one of the crucial queries revolves around the pricing approach for the new iPhone models. Analysts predominantly expect that the costs for the other models will stay in line with the preceding iPhone 16 series. For context, the base iPhone 16 is priced at $799, the Plus at $899, the 16 Pro at $999, and the 16 Pro Max at $1199.
There are discussions that the iPhone 16 Pro might experience a price rise to $1099, but this would accompany an enhancement to 256 GB of standard storage, up from the current 128 GB. The pricing for the iPhone 17 Air, however, is still up in the air. Since it takes the place of the Plus, which is priced at $899, it is probable that Apple will attempt to keep a price tier close to this level to attract buyers in search of a more budget-friendly alternative to the Pro variations.
### Specs and Highlights
The iPhone 17 Air is expected to have dimensions akin to the iPhone 16 Plus, showcasing a 6.6-inch screen compared to the Plus’s 6.7-inch display. A significant enhancement for the Air will be its 120Hz high-refresh rate display, greatly improving the user experience. Regarding processing capabilities, the Air will feature the standard A19 chip, whereas the Plus is equipped with the A18 chip.
A notable downgrade from the Plus to the Air is its camera system. The Plus is equipped with both a main and an ultra-wide lens, while the Air will only include the main lens. There are also concerns about the Air’s battery longevity, which may not compare favorably to the Plus, but the trade-off lies in its ultra-thin design.
### Competitive Positioning
The iPhone 17 Air seems to be positioned as a chic alternative to the Plus, but whether Apple will keep the same price point of $899 remains uncertain. Some analysts propose that Apple could defend a higher price for the Air, possibly starting at $1099, given that it presents a new design that may entice consumers willing to invest more for style.
Nevertheless, there are worries that a $1099 price tag could be excessive, reflecting Apple’s previous struggles with adding a fourth SKU in the iPhone range. A more plausible outcome might see the Air retailed at $999, enabling it to be positioned as a more economical option compared to the Pro models while still appealing to customers in search of a premium experience.
### Final Thoughts
As excitement mounts for Apple’s September event, scheduled for 10 AM Pacific Time on Tuesday, September 9, all attention will focus on the pricing and features of the iPhone 17 Air. With its innovative design and potential market positioning, it may reshape consumer expectations for mid-range smartphones. Stay tuned for thorough coverage of all announcements from the event.
