Apple has recently introduced the iPhone Air (not to be confused with the iPhone 17 Air), which stands out as the thinnest and thus the lightest model they have ever released. This new version signifies a significant milestone in Apple’s strategy, aiming to merge a large screen with sleekness and user comfort. However, this design choice might involve some trade-offs. It remains to be seen whether it will captivate users or end up as a failure like the iPhone Plus.
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Weight Comparison on the Scale!
According to the released data, the iPhone Air tips the scales at a mere 165 grams, making it 7% lighter than the standard iPhone 17 (177 grams) and a whopping 34% lighter than the hefty iPhone 17 Pro Max (233 grams). Thus, the iPhone Air approaches the weight of a standard iPhone 16 but offers a larger screen (6.5 inches compared to 6.3 inches).
With its ultra-thin design, the iPhone Air should feel even lighter in the hand than it actually is, enhancing ease of handling for extended periods, especially when reading, browsing, or watching videos.
The shift spearheaded by Apple isn’t limited to the iPhone Air alone. For the entire iPhone 17 lineup, Cupertino has reworked its materials. The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max have switched from titanium to aluminum, prompting some weight adjustments.
Here’s a quick overview of the differences:
– iPhone Air (6.5”): 165 g
– iPhone 17 (6.3”): 177 g
– iPhone 17 Pro (6.3”): 206 g
– iPhone 17 Pro Max (6.9”): 233 g
For context, the previous generation weighed:
– iPhone 16: 170 g
– iPhone 16 Plus: 199 g
– iPhone 16 Pro: 199 g
– iPhone 16 Pro Max: 227 g
Sleekness and Comfort of Use
Lightweight and equipped with a generous screen, the iPhone Air is clearly aimed at users seeking a balance between visual comfort and everyday practicality. Apple has managed to combine a large format with reduced weight, a feat made possible by internal optimization and the elimination of the SIM tray in many markets.
With these adjustments, Apple enhances differentiation within its range: the iPhone Air stands out for its sleekness, the iPhone 17 and 17 Pro serve as versatile standards, and the iPhone 17 Pro Max remains the ultimate premium option for those prioritizing size and battery life.
However, while the iPhone Air impresses with its slimness and lightness, such an extreme design is not without compromises. The fully optimized chassis naturally raises questions about its durability in case of bending or dropping (is Apple Care almost a necessity?)—even though Apple promises increased sturdiness with its new aluminum alloys.
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The limited space inside also results in a smaller battery (about 3000 mAh), which could affect battery life compared to thicker models, despite energy efficiency gains from the A19 chip (hence a new MagSafe Air battery). In terms of photography, the iPhone Air maintains a competitive setup, but the lack of space for a periscopic module or larger sensor could limit its capabilities compared to the Pro models.
Finally, to save space, Apple has opted to remove the physical SIM tray in most countries, thus mandating the use of eSIM, which could complicate matters for some international travelers.