The iPhone 17 Air is currently making headlines primarily because of its design. It's said to be one of the thinnest iPhones ever – even when using a protective case. A video has surfaced on social media that demonstrates precisely this aspect. It makes it clear that Apple is pursuing a very specific approach with the iPhone 17 Air. Whether this actually works in practice also depends on other factors – such as battery life.
Apple seems to have deliberately opted for a particularly slim chassis with the iPhone 17 Air. Instead of focusing on larger batteries or new technical features as with previous models, the focus here is on design. This naturally raises expectations. At the same time, however, it also raises the question: How useful is such a slim device in everyday life – especially when most people put their iPhone in a case anyway? This is precisely where the recently released video comes in.
First video shows the iPhone 17 Air – with case
The clip shows two mockups: an iPhone 17 Pro Max and an iPhone 17 Air. Both are compared directly. The crucial point: The Air mockup is already encased in a specially adapted version of the Beats case. Despite the additional case, the iPhone 17 Air still appears significantly thinner than the Pro Max. This underscores the design focus that Apple is apparently pursuing with the Air. The camera unit of the iPhone 17 Air is wider and its shape is similar to the initial rumors. The case is also tailored to this. Anyone who values a particularly thin smartphone will get a first impression here that this also works with a case.
Name “Air” does not seem exaggerated
If the dimensions shown are confirmed, the name "Air" would indeed be justified. The model in the video already appears visibly lighter and slimmer than other current iPhones. Even with a protective case, the visual advantage is not lost – a point that will likely be important for many in everyday life.
Battery compromise
One point of criticism, however, keeps cropping up: battery life. Initial internal tests have reportedly shown that the iPhone 17 Air lasts significantly less time than other models of the same generation. The reason is obvious – the slim casing leaves less room for a large battery. Apple is apparently responding to this. Reports say the company wants to relaunch the discontinued Smart Battery Case – as an official accessory for the iPhone 17 Air. Whether this case will be available right at launch is questionable. In the past, Apple has often released such battery accessories months later. So you may have to make do with the standard case for now.
Alternatives to Apple accessories
If you don't want to wait or don't want to rely on official accessories, there are alternatives. With a MagSafe battery pack, you can charge your iPhone 17 Air without a cable or additional case. Many of these batteries cost less than €20. If your model doesn't support MagSafe or you need even longer battery life, you can also use an external battery pack. There's a wide selection, and prices vary depending on the capacity.
How bad is the battery life really?
It doesn't seem to be quite so dramatic. Even though the iPhone 17 Air can't keep up with the iPhone 16 Pro Max in terms of battery life, it should still perform better than the iPhone 12 mini – a model that had many fans despite its shorter battery life. So, if you don't have particularly high demands on endurance or are usually within range of a charging station anyway, the Air model should be fine.
iPhone 17 Air – when looks are a priority
The iPhone 17 Air follows a clear course: thin, light, and modern. Apple seems to be deliberately counteracting the increasingly heavy smartphone market. Even with a case on, the new model looks slimmer than a Pro Max without – a strong signal for anyone who doesn't want to compromise on design. Battery life is the iPhone 17 Air's biggest weakness. But those willing to invest in accessories or who don't have high battery life requirements anyway can get an exceptionally elegant iPhone with the Air. For tech fans who value looks over maximum battery life, this might be just the right model. Time for some fresh accessories? Visit our Amazon Storefront and discover a wide selection of products from leading manufacturers, including HomeKit! (Image: MajinBuOfficial / X)
- Apple plans iPhone 19 Air with larger display for 2027
- iPhone 17 Air in focus: Weaker battery, new accessories
