Apple has once again transformed its iPhone range with a daring new entrant. In addition to the flagship iPhone 17 Pro, the company has introduced the iPhone Air — its thinnest smartphone to date. Both models will be available on September 19, and Apple acknowledges that it intentionally aims to present customers with a challenging decision: should they choose the feature-rich Pro or the ultra-light Air? The iPhone Air, unveiled at Apple’s annual event in Cupertino, measures just 5.6mm in thickness, making it more than one-third slimmer than the iPhone 17 Pro.
Molly Anderson, Apple’s vice president of industrial design, stated in an interview with the Wall Street Journal, “It’s something that we dreamed about for a long time, to make just an incredibly, shockingly thin iPhone.” Apple is marketing the Air as a device focused on style, portability, and lifestyle appeal. CEO Tim Cook described it as so light that “it does seem like it’s going to fly away when you’re holding it.” Despite its slender design, Apple asserts that performance has not been compromised, although it admits that the Pro still excels in terms of battery life and camera capabilities. The Pro series targets power users, professionals, and creatives who depend on advanced camera features and processing power.
Conversely, the Air is geared towards individuals who view their phone as both a practical tool and a fashion accessory. “When something becomes so much a part of you, it needs to reflect your style,” Cook remarked. Alan Dye, Apple’s design lead, highlighted that the Air moves the company closer to its goal of creating a device that feels like “a singular piece of glass.” The design philosophies of the two models differ significantly; the iPhone 17 Pro is available in vibrant colors, including a striking cosmic orange, while the iPhone Air features a polished, reflective surface designed to emphasize its slim profile.
Apple has also launched matching accessories like cases and cross-body straps for the Air, encouraging customers to view it as a wearable fashion item. Reactions at the launch event were mixed yet enthusiastic. Lev Tanju, co-founder of London skate brand Palace, admitted, “I didn’t need a thinner phone, but now I’m like, I need a thinner phone.” Simultaneously, he recognized the Pro’s superior camera zoom as more practical for his creative endeavors. Industry experts see the Air as Apple’s effort to maintain excitement in a saturated smartphone market. Deyan Sudjic, director emeritus of the Design Museum in London, observed that Apple is continually challenged to innovate its flagship, with the Air serving as a lifestyle-oriented response.
Fashion insiders also commended the initiative, with stylist Gabriella Karefa-Johnson calling it a blessing for those who struggle with large phones in small bags, while filmmaker Lena Dunham emphasized the significance of color and customization. Some analysts speculate that Apple’s focus on thinner devices might indicate a shift towards foldable iPhones, although the company has not confirmed any such intentions. Cook reiterated that Apple remains dedicated to the products introduced this year. For now, Apple is pleased to present its customers with a genuine dilemma. “I like that it’s a hard choice,” Anderson remarked. While the iPhone 17 Pro delivers unparalleled power and longevity, the Air prioritizes sleekness, lightness, and personal style.