APPLE'S IPHONE 17 AIR COULD BE COMPANY'S THINNEST PHONE YET

9to5mac

According to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo's latest Medium post, Apple plans to push the boundaries of iPhone design with its upcoming iPhone 17 Air model, potentially reaching a thickness of just 5.5 millimeters at its thinnest point.

The measurement marks a notable decrease from the previously reported 6.25mm thickness and would make it considerably slimmer than the iPhone 6, which measures 6.9mm. At 5.5mm, the new iPhone would approach the dimensions of Apple's current M4 iPad Pro lineup, with the 11-inch model at 5.3mm and the 13-inch version at 5.1mm thick.

Kuo's report specifically mentions "the thinnest part" of the device reaching 5.5mm, suggesting potential variations in the phone's profile. While iPhones traditionally maintain uniform thickness except for camera protrusions, this phrasing raises questions about whether Apple might introduce a tapered design similar to earlier MacBook Air models.

The phone's camera system, though scaled back compared to Pro models, will likely still require a raised bump. The extreme thinness also aligns with previous reports suggesting the device will be eSIM-only, eliminating the need for a physical SIM card tray.

This ultra-thin design could help position the iPhone 17 Air as a distinct alternative to the Pro series, targeting users who prioritize portability over advanced features. The device is expected to launch as part of Apple's iPhone 17 lineup later this year.