At just 5.5mm thick, the iPhone 17 Air is Apple’s slimmest device ever. It feels stunning in the hand, drawing attention with its impossibly slender profile. However, beauty often comes with compromises, and early reports suggest its reduced frame might limit battery capacity. The other models have slightly thicker bodies, balancing style with practicality.
Performance that delivers
Under the hood, the entire range operates on Apple’s new A19 chip. The Pro and Pro Max models, however, upgrade to the more powerful A19 Pro, supported by 12 GB of RAM.
The base and Air models come with 8 GB, which still marks a significant increase over earlier generations. Every model now features a silky 120 Hz ProMotion OLED display – finally delivering Apple’s smoothest visuals to all users, not just Pro customers.
Photography redefined
If cameras matter most to you, the iPhone 17 won’t let you down. The base and Air models include a 48 MP main camera and a 24 MP selfie lens – ideal for casual creators. However, the Pro series takes centre stage with a triple 48 MP setup: telephoto, wide, and ultra-wide lenses. Paired with Apple’s AI-enhanced image processing, these offer sharper details, richer colours, and low-light performance that can compete with dedicated cameras.
Battery and beyond
The slender Air might come with a sub-3 000mAh battery, but Apple isn’t leaving users stranded. iOS 26 introduces adaptive power-saving features, alongside rumours of silicon-carbon battery technology designed to enhance efficiency. The outcome? More screen time, less plugging in.
The verdict
The iPhone 17 series feels like Apple’s balancing act between art and engineering. The Air is the runway model – stunning, incredibly slim, and perfect for those who prioritise style above all else. Meanwhile, the Pro and Pro Max are the true powerhouses, packed with the muscle, memory, and camera setup to satisfy professionals and creators alike. Whatever you choose, one thing’s clear: Apple remains at the forefront of smartphone innovation.
