Apple is reportedly gearing up to launch the “iPhone 17 Air,” a device rumored to focus on ultra-thin and lightweight design. However, according to TechRadar, the move has sparked comparisons to the iconic MacBook Air and the less successful 12-inch MacBook, raising questions about whether this new iPhone will be a breakthrough or a misstep.
A key feature of the iPhone 17 Air is its anticipated use of Apple’s first in-house modem. While this could help Apple reduce its reliance on third-party suppliers and cut costs, early reports from The Information suggest the custom modem may lag behind current models in speed and reliability. If true, it could evoke memories of the “antennagate” controversy from the iPhone 4 era.
Despite these concerns, Apple’s history with custom silicon suggests potential. The success of the M1 and M2 chips shows the company’s ability to refine its innovations over time. If the same holds for modems, the iPhone 17 Air could evolve into a standout device.
The parallels to Apple’s past devices are striking. The MacBook Air launched in 2008 as a revolutionary design but initially faced criticism for limited power. Over time, Apple refined the Air into one of the best laptops on the market. On the other hand, the ultra-slim 12-inch MacBook sacrificed too much performance for thinness and was discontinued just a few years after its release.
The iPhone 17 Air could go either way. As Apple pushes boundaries, the balance between design innovation and functionality will determine its success. With its launch expected next fall, the real test will be how it performs not just initially but in the years to come.
Will it reshape the smartphone market like the MacBook Air did for laptops, or will it follow the fate of the 12-inch MacBook? Only time will tell.
Photo by Tech Radar
