Apple Unveils Slimmest iPhone Yet: The Divisive iPhone Air

In September 2025, Apple unveiled a new addition to its iPhone lineup - the iPhone Air. Launching alongside the iPhone 17 Pro, the Air is the slimmest iPhone ever built, measuring just 5.6mm thick, over a third thinner than the Pro model.

Apple is deliberately positioning the Air and Pro as two distinct choices for consumers. The Air is being marketed as a device that prioritizes style and portability, with Apple's design head Alan Dye describing it as a "singular piece of glass." In contrast, the Pro series is aimed at professionals like photographers and filmmakers who require more power and camera capabilities.

While the Air's slim design has already sparked excitement among some users, Apple acknowledges that the Pro continues to offer superior battery life and camera hardware. The company's vice president of industrial design, Molly Anderson, says the goal is to give buyers a "hard choice" between the two models.

This strategic move by Apple comes as it faces the constant challenge of reinventing the iPhone in a mature smartphone market. Industry experts believe the Air's ultra-thin design could be a precursor to future foldable iPhone models, though Apple has not confirmed any such plans.