The rumor mill is churning with news of Apple’s upcoming smartphone lineup overhaul, including the introduction of the iPhone 17 Air, slated to replace the current Plus model. While concept renders and 3D-printed dummies have offered glimpses, a recent leak provides the clearest look yet at the potential design of the iPhone 17 Air.
Leakster MajinBu shared an image purportedly showcasing the iPhone 17 Air, held by an individual. The device in the image resembles a finished dummy unit, similar to those found in retail stores, providing a clear view of the metallic frame and a possible two-toned rear glass shell. This glossy-frosted design, a recent Apple staple, seems poised to continue with this highly anticipated ultra-slim phone.
A Familiar Design Language?
The leaked photo raises some design questions. Previous leaks suggested a horizontal camera island seamlessly integrated with the rear glass. However, this image reveals a more prominent, pill-shaped camera bump reminiscent of the Google Pixel 9 series. While sticking to a familiar aesthetic is understandable, this design choice feels somewhat repetitive and strikingly similar to Google’s design language. Without the elongated camera island, the device bears a strong resemblance to the iPhone 16e. The image, showing the camera island in a glass-like transparent look against a white background, makes it difficult to gauge its thickness.
Projected Specs and Features
Leaks indicate the iPhone 17 Air might sport a single 48-megapixel rear camera and a new 24-megapixel selfie camera, also expected on its siblings. Internally, the A19 processor, built on a 3-nanometer process, is predicted, coupled with 12GB of RAM. A sleek 5.1mm profile is rumored to house a 6.7-inch 120Hz OLED display. Notably, the iPhone 17 Air could potentially ditch the physical SIM slot entirely, opting for eSIM across all markets.
Connectivity-wise, Apple is reportedly integrating an in-house modem. Whether it’s a next-generation chip or the existing C1 modem from the iPhone 16e, which lacks 5G mmWave support, remains unclear.
Conclusion: Awaiting Confirmation
While the leaked image offers a compelling look at the potential design of the iPhone 17 Air, it’s important to remember these are still rumors. The final design and specifications remain subject to change until Apple’s official announcement. The similarities to the Google Pixel design language raise questions about Apple’s direction with the iPhone 17 Air. As we await confirmation, the anticipation for Apple’s next smartphone release continues to build.
