A strikingly thin new iPhone model – the rumored iPhone 17 Air – has surfaced on YouTube, courtesy of popular channel Unbox Therapy. Although it’s still months from an official announcement, this prototype provides a sneak peek at what Apple might have planned for its upcoming slimline device, expected to be part of the iPhone 17 lineup later this year.
YouTuber Lewis Hilsenteger described the prototype’s design as “crazy” and “insane,” highlighting its exceptionally thin 5.65mm frame – significantly slimmer than current models. For example, the iPhone 16 Pro is a comparatively chunky 8.25mm. He was particularly impressed by how sleek it felt compared to the bulkier iPhone 17 Pro Max dummy model he also showcased.
While we do admit does look remarkably thin, there are some potential downsides. The camera module feels even more pronounced, like a bolted-on afterthought. Memories of the infamous Bendgate scandal raise concerns about strength and durability. There’s also bound to be a compromise on battery life when you strip away so much physical space from the design.
The pursuit of thinner devices has been a hallmark of Apple’s design philosophy, heavily influenced by former chief designer Jony Ive – but honestly, we’re not sure the average consumer cares half as much as Apple’s design team when it comes to shaving a few milimetres off. However, it’s also worth considering whether consumers truly value shaving a few millimeters off their phones. Many average iPhone users might prefer better battery life and robust features over marginally thinner designs. According to a 2014 survey by Business Insider, 86% of iPhone users use a protective case, which adds bulk to the device and diminishes the benefits of a thinner design.
This prototype also hints at compromises beyond battery life, potentially including a single rear camera lens and standard (rather than Pro-level) internal specs. If customers embrace these trade-offs for a slimmer profile, Apple might pursue this new direction further. If not, the Air could join past experiments like the mini and Plus models in being short-lived.
It’s worth remembering this isn’t an official Apple reveal – just a third-party dummy model, possibly from an accessory maker with connections in Apple’s supply chain. While the details are exciting, we’ll have to wait until Apple’s official unveiling later this year for concrete information.