Apple is expected to launch an all-new ultra-thin iPhone model this year alongside the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max. But just how thin is the iPhone 17 Air?

While previous renders, cases, and prototype images have surfaced online, today, Lewis Hilsenteger of Unbox Therapy revealed new mock-ups that offer a clearer look at the iPhone 17 Air's remarkable thinness.

The iPhone 17 Air is rumored to be only 5.5mm thick (with a slightly thicker camera bump), making it the thinnest iPhone Apple has ever produced. In comparison, the iPhone 17 Pro models are expected to measure around 8.725mm, creating a noticeable contrast in hand feel between the Air and the rest of the lineup.

Hilsenteger expressed amazement at how thin the device is and raised questions about whether such a slim frame might be prone to bending.

To address potential durability concerns, Apple is said to be using a titanium-aluminum alloy frame to strengthen the structure and reduce the risk of bending.

The issue of device bending is not new to Apple. Back in 2014, the company faced the infamous “bendgate” scandal when some iPhone 6 Plus users reported their phones bending after being carried in pockets. Hilsenteger’s own durability test of the iPhone 6 went viral and helped establish his YouTube channel’s reputation.

To further reduce bend risk, Apple reportedly scaled back the iPhone 17 Air’s display size from 6.9 inches to 6.6 inches, believing a larger screen might compromise the structural integrity of the super-thin body. The final display size matches the dimensions of many current mid-tier smartphones and balances usability with durability.

Battery life was another concern highlighted by Hilsenteger. However, Apple appears to be making several trade-offs to accommodate a larger battery despite the ultra-thin design. The company is rumored to remove certain components like secondary camera lenses and instead rely on a custom-designed Apple C1 modem with higher energy efficiency and software optimization. As a result, the iPhone 17 Air is expected to offer battery life comparable to current iPhone models.

The iPhone 17 Air will be officially unveiled alongside the iPhone 17, 17 Pro, and 17 Pro Max this fall. Among the new models, the Air variant stands out as Apple’s boldest attempt yet at combining sleek design with advanced engineering.

Hai Phong