Apple’s upcoming iPhone 17 lineup may introduce the iPhone 17 Air, which is expected to replace the “Plus” model. While this has sparked anticipation, there are new rumors about some design elements that could set the device apart. Notably, a camera bar on the back could become a defining feature, which may raise eyebrows due to its significant departure from previous designs.
Camera Bar Design Sparks Controversy Among Apple Enthusiasts
One of the most contentious rumors involves the camera bar design. Leaks suggest that the iPhone 17 Air may feature a nearly full-width bar housing the camera. This could be a bold aesthetic choice by Apple, moving away from the more traditional centered camera lens found in prior models. The bar could cause the phone to appear bulkier at the top, though the main lens itself might be positioned in the same spot as earlier iPhones. The flash could be relocated to the opposite side, creating a more distinct design.
The iPhone 17 Air is rumored to be the thinnest iPhone yet, with thickness estimates ranging from 5mm to 6.25mm. If accurate, this would make it significantly slimmer than the current iPhone 16 lineup, which has models ranging from 7.8mm to 8.25mm. Such a reduction in thickness has sparked questions about how Apple might balance the slim design with battery life, durability, and performance.
Single 48MP Camera Marks a Significant Configuration Shift
The iPhone 17 Air is expected to feature a single 48MP camera, which is a notable departure from the dual and triple-camera setups in the iPhone 16 and 16 Pro models. This simplification could appeal to users seeking a more streamlined experience, but may also leave some disappointed by the lack of advanced camera capabilities available in the higher-end models.
With the iPhone 17 Air still months away from launch, these rumored design elements are subject to change. Apple is likely testing multiple prototypes, and the final design could differ significantly from the current leaks. Therefore, it remains to be seen how the iPhone 17 Air will ultimately look when it is officially revealed later in the year.