
Apple Rumored to Launch Ultra-Thin iPhone 17 Air with eSIM-Only Design
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Exciting news for Apple fans! The rumored iPhone 17 Air is shaping up to be one of the sleekest and most futuristic smartphones ever. According to a report from analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, this ultra-thin model is expected to measure just 5.5mm at its thinnest point, making it one of Apple’s slimmest devices yet.
Ultra-Thin Design
The iPhone 17 Air is rumored to feature a design so thin that it rivals Apple’s iPad Pro, which measures only 5.1mm. If true, this would make the iPhone 17 Air the thinnest iPhone Apple has ever created. Its slim profile is sure to turn heads and set a new standard for smartphone design.
eSIM-Only Support
To achieve this ultra-thin form, Apple is reportedly dropping support for physical SIM cards and opting for eSIM-only connectivity. While this may streamline the phone’s design, it could pose challenges in markets like China, where eSIM-only devices aren’t yet widely promoted.
Kuo also mentions that this shift to eSIM-only is not limited to the iPhone 17 Air—it could extend to Apple’s foldable iPhone, which is currently in the planning stage.
Key Features
In addition to its thin profile and eSIM-only support, the iPhone 17 Air is rumored to feature:
- 6.6-inch Display: A slightly larger screen for immersive viewing.
- In-House 5G Modem: Apple’s custom-designed 5G modem promises better performance and efficiency.
Goodbye, iPhone Plus
It’s widely speculated that the iPhone Plus model will be discontinued, with the iPhone 17 Air taking its place. While the new model’s slim design and modern features are exciting, Kuo predicts it won’t significantly boost overall iPhone sales.
Why It Might Fall Short
Despite its groundbreaking design, the iPhone 17 Air may face challenges in driving sales due to:
- High Price: The premium design comes with a premium price tag.
- Downgraded Components: Kuo suggests the Air might not feature the same high-end internals as other Pro models.
- Similar User Experience: While the design is new, the overall functionality and features may not differ much from current iPhones.
Final Thoughts
The rumored iPhone 17 Air is shaping up to be a bold step for Apple, with its ultra-thin design and eSIM-only support signaling the future of smartphones. However, while it’s likely to impress with its aesthetics, its overall impact on iPhone sales remains to be seen.
Apple fans can look forward to more details later this year as we inch closer to the second half of 2025, when the iPhone 17 lineup is expected to launch. Whether the iPhone 17 Air becomes a game-changer or a niche offering, one thing is clear—Apple continues to push the boundaries of innovation!