Apple’s highly anticipated fall keynote is just around the corner, scheduled for Monday, September 9th. As always, the tech world is abuzz with excitement as Cupertino prepares to unveil its latest iPhone models: the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro. Among the expected features are slightly larger screens, new colors, a dedicated camera button, and the powerful new A18 chip integrated with artificial intelligence.
But according to Mark Gurman, a well-respected Bloomberg journalist known for his insider Apple knowledge, the real iPhone revolution won’t arrive this year—it’s being saved for 2025. Apple is reportedly working on an iPhone 17 “Air” that could usher in what Gurman describes as the “fourth great era” of the iPhone.
Reflecting on Three Eras of the iPhone
Since the original iPhone launched in 2007, Apple’s flagship product has gone through three major evolutionary stages. The first began with that groundbreaking iPhone, which set the stage for the smartphone category as we know it today. The second era kicked off in 2017 with the iPhone X, which introduced the edge-to-edge display and Face ID, forever changing the phone’s design language. Then, in 2020, Apple launched the iPhone 12, marking the third phase, with its flat-edged design, 5G connectivity, and MagSafe magnets. It also briefly introduced the iPhone Mini, though that model has since been discontinued.
At present, Apple’s lineup consists of three models: the standard iPhone, the iPhone Pro, and the iPhone Pro Max. While each iteration brings refinements and new features, Apple is still searching for the next big leap forward—a fourth revolution. And that, according to Gurman’s sources, is where the iPhone 17 “Air” comes in.
What to Expect from the iPhone 17 “Air”
Set for a 2025 release, the iPhone 17 Air is rumored to be a game-changer. The design is expected to be completely overhauled, featuring flat titanium edges and a bezel-less display. Thanks to under-display technology, both Face ID and the front-facing camera will be hidden beneath the screen, allowing for an uninterrupted display experience.
The device will also feature a 3-nanometer chip, the most powerful Apple has ever developed, delivering unprecedented performance. What’s more, the iPhone 17 Air could be Apple’s thinnest and lightest model yet, thanks to the complete removal of physical ports. Charging will be done exclusively via wireless induction, and data transfer will rely solely on wireless connections, signaling a shift toward a truly port-free future.
The phone’s connectivity will also get a major boost with a next-generation 5G modem, designed by Apple, promising unparalleled download speeds. On the camera front, a periscope-style telephoto lens could offer an impressive 10x optical zoom, pushing the boundaries of mobile photography even further.
The Biggest Redesign Since the iPhone X
If the rumors prove true, the iPhone 17 Air could represent Apple’s most significant iPhone overhaul since the iPhone X. With a market increasingly saturated and showing signs of slowing down, this kind of bold innovation could be just what Apple needs to reignite excitement and boost sales.
While the iPhone 16, set to be unveiled next week, is expected to be more of an incremental upgrade, the tech world will likely be watching closely for signs of what’s to come. As we look toward 2025, it seems Apple is preparing for its “next big thing” once again.
For now, all eyes are on the keynote, and it’s clear that Apple’s innovation journey is far from over.
My name is Noah and I’m a dedicated member of the “Jason Deegan” team. With my passion for technology, I strive to bring you the latest and most exciting news in the world of high-tech.