In an unexpected twist, The Wall Street Journal reports that Apple’s upcoming iPhone 17 Air may be priced lower than the iPhone Pro models. This revelation goes against earlier speculation that the ultra-thin design would come with a premium price tag, possibly surpassing the Pro Max models. If the latest rumors are true, the iPhone 17 Air could become one of Apple’s most intriguing launches yet.
A New Era for the iPhone Air: What We Know
Here’s what the Wall Street Journal reported about the much-anticipated iPhone 17 Air:
“Starting next year, Apple plans to introduce an iPhone that will be thinner than the approximately 8-millimeter profile of current models. The model is intended to be cheaper than Pro models, with a simplified camera system to reduce costs.”
Read more: iPhone 17 Pro Max: A Bold Redesign with Exciting Features
This is a stark contrast to a May report from The Information, which suggested the iPhone 17 Air could:
- Launch alongside the iPhone 17 in September 2025.
- Be priced higher than the iPhone Pro Max, which starts at $1,200.
Why This Pricing Shift Matters
Initially, a higher price tag for the iPhone 17 Air seemed unappealing. A thinner design might look sleek, but paired with compromises like reduced battery life, a simplified camera system, and a single speaker, it didn’t justify a price exceeding $1,200.
However, the latest rumors suggest the iPhone 17 Air will be cheaper than the Pro models, potentially under $1,000. Some sources speculate it could even take the $899 price point of the iPhone 16 Plus, offering a significant $400 savings compared to earlier expectations.
iPhone 17 Air: Features and Trade-offs
Here’s what you can expect:
Compromises:
- Battery Life: Likely shorter than Pro models due to the ultra-thin design.
- Single Camera: A simplified system compared to Pro and Plus models.
- Audio Output: No second speaker, relying solely on the earpiece.
Perks:
- Ultra-Thin Design: A sleeker, lighter phone that breaks away from Apple’s recent design patterns.
- 120Hz ProMotion Display: Unlike the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus, the base model iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Air will feature ProMotion, offering smoother scrolling and animations.
- More Affordable: A premium look and feel at a price potentially under $1,000, making it more accessible to a broader audience.
What Makes the iPhone 17 Air Exciting?
The iPhone 17 Air might represent a shift in Apple’s strategy, appealing to users who want premium aesthetics without the Pro price tag. At a rumored starting price of $899, the Air could fill a unique niche:
- A Fresh Design: For the first time in years, the iPhone will offer a dramatically thinner and sleeker profile.
- Better Value: For those not needing Pro-level features like advanced cameras or extended battery life, the Air offers a stylish alternative at a lower cost.
- Tech Appeal: With features like 120Hz ProMotion, it’s a great choice for tech enthusiasts.
Read more: EU Regulation Pushes Apple to Open iOS Features: AirDrop, AirPlay, and More
Is the iPhone 17 Air Worth It?
If the rumors hold true, the iPhone 17 Air offers an attractive mix of style, innovation, and affordability. While it may not cater to power users who rely on Pro-level features, it could become a standout option for those prioritizing design and everyday functionality.
For now, we’ll have to wait for more official announcements, but one thing is certain: the iPhone 17 Air could redefine what it means to have a premium Apple experience at a more accessible price point.
What do you think about the rumored iPhone 17 Air? Would you consider it over the Pro models? Let us know in the comments below!
