iPhone 17 Air: Thinner than ever! - Two millimetres thinner than the iPhone 16 Pro

In 2025, Apple plans to launch a new, exceptionally thin iPhone, which will be unveiled alongside the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max models.

The rumoured iPhone 17 Air is expected to be two millimetres thinner than the current iPhone 16 Pro, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. Given that the iPhone 16 Pro is 8,25 millimetres thick, the new iPhone 17 Air will measure 6,25 millimetres, making it Apple's thinnest iPhone to date. By comparison, the thinnest model so far was the iPhone 6, at 6,9 millimetres thick. However, from the iPhone X onwards, the devices became thicker to accommodate larger batteries, advanced cameras and the Face ID system.

Innovative modem chip from Apple

The iPhone 17 Air will feature Apple's new, custom-designed 5G modem chip, which is smaller than Qualcomm's equivalents. This chip saves more space inside the device without affecting battery performance, camera quality or display quality. Gurman notes that Apple has integrated the modem chip seamlessly with other components, ensuring the device's sleek design.

Features and rumours

Earlier reports suggest that the iPhone 17 Air will be between 5 and 6 millimetres thick, with the most reliable sources confirming a thickness of 6 millimetres. The device is expected to feature a 6,6-inch display and a single-lens rear camera.

In addition to the iPhone 17 Air, the new modem chip will also be incorporated into the iPhone SE and an affordable iPad during 2025. This suggests that Apple plans to replace Qualcomm's modems entirely within three years, aiming for a future in which its devices use only its own systems-on-a-chip.

Future plans

The space saved by using the new modem could lead to innovative designs, such as a foldable iPhone. According to Gurman, Apple is actively exploring the technology needed to develop such a device, driving progress towards even more groundbreaking products.