Concerns regarding the battery life of the iPhone 17 Air may have some validity, according to a recent report from The Information. Internal tests by Apple reportedly reveal that only 60 to 70 percent of iPhone 17 Air devices can last a full day on a single charge, compared to 80 to 90 percent for other iPhone models.
This battery issue is likely linked to the phone’s sleek design. At a mere 5.5mm thick, the iPhone 17 Air is anticipated to be the slimmest iPhone to date, and potentially among the thinnest smartphones available. Unfortunately, this reduction in thickness may mean a smaller battery capacity. To mitigate this limitation, Apple is reportedly considering the release of an optional battery case accessory to provide users with extra power throughout the day.
Initial rumors hinted that Apple might transition from lithium-ion to silicon-carbide batteries, which typically offer higher energy density and more compact designs. However, if the latest findings are correct, this shift may not be happening.
The iPhone series has consistently enjoyed popularity, but it can still be challenging to predict consumer response to design changes like this. As per the report, Apple has allocated only 10 percent of its manufacturing capacity for the iPhone 17 Air. This figure may be adjusted post-launch based on demand, but for the time being, it appears that this model will cater to a more niche audience.
The iPhone 17 Air is scheduled to debut in September alongside the rest of the iPhone 17 lineup, with a starting price estimated at $799. It is likely to feature a single rear camera and 12GB of RAM, an upgrade from the 8GB found in the current iPhone 16.
