iPhone 17 Air apparently to come with ultra-thin titanium frame

Jens Scharfenberg
Jens Scharfenberg · 3 Minuten Lesezeit
iPhone 17 Air
Image: Screenshot fpt.

Apple could take an unexpected step with the iPhone 17 Air: a material upgrade that combines design and stability and redefines the class of the slimmest iPhones. In a recent report, analyst Jeff Pu mentions the use of a titanium frame as a surprise – and thus a significantly more robust basic structure for the ultra-thin housing.

Highlights

  • Titanium instead of aluminum for the iPhone 17 Air – while iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max rely on aluminum again
  • Body thickness of only around 5.5 mm combined with a 6.6″ OLED display with 120 Hz ProMotion
  • Apple A19 chipset with its own modem on board
  • Priced above the base model, but below the iPhone 17 Pro

Why does the iPhone 17 Air use titanium?

The experts at MacRumors have published new rumors about the long-awaited iPhone 17 Air. Compared to aluminum, titanium offers higher tensile and flexural strength – an important point when the housing is only around 5.5 mm thin. Experts suspect that Apple wants to avoid another “Bendgate” debacle like the iPhone 6 models from the early 2010s. A robust titanium frame therefore seems to be a sensible protective measure for this ambitious design.

Key technical data at a glance

According to current leaks, the iPhone 17 Air will have a 6.6″ OLED display with smooth 120 Hz ProMotion. Inside, the A19 chipset with integrated cellular modem ensures performance and connectivity. The ultra-flat casing measures just around 5.5 mm – a clear statement in terms of design ambitions.

According to analysts, Apple is planning an entry-level price above the normal iPhone 17, but below the iPhone 17 Pro. This clearly positions the Air model between the standard and Pro – with a focus on design and feel over camera or power features.

Assessment and outlook

The iPhone 17 Air could prove to be the ideal choice for technology fans looking for a particularly slim, light and robust device. The titanium frame underlines Apple’s claim to combine minimalist design with suitability for everyday use.

iPhone 17 Air
Image: Screenshot fpt.

While Pro models are defined as usual by camera prestige and other features, the Air stands out as a design icon – with compact advantages. The launch is expected in the fall, traditionally in September. Indications of price and actual availability will continue to grow until then.

Conclusion

The iPhone 17 Air could set new standards: Titanium frame, 5.5 mm thin titanium housing, 6.6″ 120 Hz display and A19 chipset make this model Apple’s lightest, yet most stable iPhone variant. Priced between Standard and Pro, it offers style and technology in one. Availability is expected in the fall – worth pre-ordering.