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We are approaching the anticipated launch of the iPhone 17, which is rumored to be unveiled by Apple on September 9. Clues and leaks about all four models are revealing new details every day.
Reports indicate that Apple plans to continue releasing four iPhone models this year, similar to previous years. However, a notable change is expected: there will be no Plus variant. Instead, it will be replaced by the new iPhone 17 Air, a super-slim device set to rival Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Edge in terms of sleekness.
According to a recent post from Weibo via TheShortcut, there’s speculation that Apple might equip the iPhone 17 Air with the same top-tier processor as the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max—the A19 Pro—although with a specific tweak. This version reportedly features one fewer GPU core: instead of the six-core GPU found in the Pro models, the Air might have five. While this could result in slightly reduced graphics performance, the device should still be capable of handling the latest gaming titles.
Interestingly, there’s also the possibility that Apple will adopt Samsung’s approach, using the most powerful processor in the ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air, despite its thin profile. The main aim appears to be balancing performance with effective thermal management since thinner devices tend to generate more heat.
The upcoming model is expected to be only about 5.5mm thick—making it 0.3mm thinner than Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Edge. Initially, many believed Apple would settle for the standard A19 chip for this model. However, trustworthy leaks suggest that a more powerful chip may be used, which could mark a significant upgrade in processing capabilities for such a slim device.
Due to its slender construction, the iPhone 17 Air might need to cool itself carefully, possibly using innovative thermal solutions. Samsung’s Galaxy Edge, for example, employs a redesigned vapor chamber that’s both wider and shallower, along with a graphene-like thermal pad above the processor to prevent overheating. It remains to be seen what methods Apple will implement to achieve optimal thermal performance in this ultra-slim phone.
Overall, these developments point to a fascinating year for iPhone enthusiasts, with performance improvements on the horizon alongside a dramatically thinner design, possibly featuring the same high-end internals as its larger counterparts.