The iPhone 17 Air, Apple’s upcoming ultra-slim smartphone, has sparked debate due to a recent leak revealing a modest 2,800mAh battery capacity. This figure is notably low, especially when compared to other slim ultraslim devices like the newly launched Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge that features a 3,900mAh battery.
Apple’s pursuit of a sleek design has led to the iPhone 17 Air being just 5.5mm thick, making it the thinnest iPhone to date. To achieve this, Apple plans to utilise a combination of titanium and aluminium for the device’s body, ensuring durability without compromising on weight.
To mitigate concerns about battery life, Apple is reportedly incorporating high-density battery technology, which could offer around a 20% increase in capacity without increasing the battery’s physical size. Additionally, the iPhone 17 Air is expected to feature Apple’s power-efficient C1 modem and an LTPO OLED display with adaptive refresh rates, both aimed at conserving energy.
Camera-wise, the device may sport a single 48MP rear camera and a 24MP front-facing camera, focusing on streamlined hardware without compromising on photo quality. Connectivity enhancements include the adoption of Apple’s in-house C1 modem and support for Wi-Fi 7, while the device is expected to rely solely on eSIM technology, eliminating the physical SIM card slot.
Despite these advancements, internal testing suggests that only 60–70% of users may experience all-day battery life with the iPhone 17 Air, compared to 80–90% for other iPhone 17 models. To address this, Apple plans to reintroduce an optional battery case, a product line it hasn’t offered since the iPhone 11 series.
The iPhone 17 Air is anticipated to launch in September 2025, alongside other models in the iPhone 17 series. While its ultra-thin design showcases Apple’s engineering prowess, the trade-offs in battery capacity may influence consumer reception, especially among users who prioritise battery longevity.
