Apple plans to launch the iPhone 17 Air this fall, featuring a sleek design at just 5.65mm thick. However, this will lead to a reduced battery capacity, estimated between 3,000 and 4,000mAh. To compensate, Apple is reportedly reviving the Smart Battery Case, which helps extend battery life. Internal tests suggest only 60-70% of users will achieve a full day’s use without recharging, compared to 80-90% for other iPhone 17 models. Production for the iPhone 17 Air is limited due to demand uncertainties, and the phone will have a single rear camera, one speaker, and no SIM card slot.
Apple is set to introduce the iPhone 17 Air this fall, signaling a revival of the slim phone era. The device is rumored to be only 5.65mm thick, which will necessitate some compromises, particularly in battery capacity, likely within the 3,000 – 4,000mAh range.
iPhone 17 Air dummy unit (credit: Unbox Therapy)
New information has emerged regarding a potential return of the Smart Battery Case, which could enhance the phone’s battery life. A recent report from The Information indicates that Apple plans to reintroduce the Smart Battery Case for the iPhone 17 Air.
Apple’s venture into battery cases began in 2015 with the launch of the Smart Battery Case for the iPhone 6s, continuing its evolution with the iPhone 11 series.
iPhone 11 and 11 Pro Smart Battery Case
Subsequently, Cupertino transitioned to the MagSafe Battery Pack with the iPhone 12 series, which was phased out in 2023 shortly after the iPhone 15 was released.
According to the latest report, early internal assessments by Apple revealed that only 60-70% of iPhone 17 Air users will be able to use the device for an entire day without needing a recharge. In comparison, the other iPhone 17 models have figures ranging from 80% to 90%.
The report also notes that Apple’s suppliers are currently allocating just 10% of their production capacity to the iPhone 17 Air, citing uncertainty regarding demand. Additionally, it has been confirmed that the device will include a single rear camera, one speaker, and no SIM card slot.
Source (paywall)