The highly anticipated iPhone 17 Air, slated for a fall 2025 release, is generating considerable buzz. Leaks suggest this new model, potentially replacing the iPhone Plus, will feature a radical redesign, particularly with its camera system. A recent video from WEIS Studio on Instagram offers a glimpse of what this redesigned iPhone might look like.
The most striking change is the horizontal rear camera arrangement, a departure from the vertical layout of current iPhones. This horizontal alignment bears a strong resemblance to Google’s Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro XL models.
Another significant design element highlighted by WEIS Studio is the iPhone 17 Air’s exceptionally thin profile, rumored to be as slim as 5.5mm. This is a substantial reduction compared to the iPhone 16’s 7.8mm thickness and even rivals the slimness of the 13-inch iPad Pro (2024) at 5.1mm and the 11-inch model at 5.3mm.
Google Pixel 9 Pro. A potential design for the iPhone 17 Air showing a horizontal camera layout similar to the Google Pixel 9 Pro.
Beyond the external changes, the iPhone 17 Air is expected to boast impressive specifications. Rumors point to a 6.6-inch 120Hz ProMotion display, aligning with the rest of the iPhone 17 lineup. Internally, the device is anticipated to house the powerful A19 chip, support for Wi-Fi 7, and Apple’s own 5G modem. The camera system is rumored to feature a single 48-megapixel rear camera.
The iPhone 17 Air’s potential redesign represents a significant shift for Apple. While the prospect of a new design is exciting, it also raises questions about Apple’s design philosophy, given the similarities to existing smartphones. Traditionally, Apple has charted its own course in design, and it remains to be seen how this new design language will be received.
Apple is expected to unveil its iPhone 17 lineup in early September.
