Samsung And Apple Race To Slim Phones Without Sticker Shock

In recent months, various sources have highlighted the efforts of Samsung and Apple to develop thinner smartphones. While one might assume this shift might lead to increased prices, it appears that these sleek devices won’t come with a hefty price tag.

For Apple, the proposed iPhone 17 Air is set to take the place of the iPhone “Plus” model, which reportedly experienced disappointing sales. To address this gap, Apple plans to introduce the Air model this year, aiming to maintain the current pricing strategy without any major adjustments.

As noted by an industry insider to Sisa Journal, “The Plus model struggled with its identity, leading to poorer sales. By transitioning to a slim model, they can adopt a pricing strategy similar to that of the Plus.”

Meanwhile, Samsung reportedly intends to follow Apple’s lead. The company is gearing up to introduce the Galaxy S25 Slim, specifically designed to compete with Apple’s Air model. According to the report, it suggests that this device will not be priced too high.

While there are still many uncertainties surrounding the pricing of the Galaxy S25 Slim, sources from a Korean outlet indicate that it will be cheaper than the flagship Ultra model.

If these rumors prove accurate, we could see the iPhone 17 Air and Galaxy S25 Slim priced around $900. Both models are expected to launch in the second half of 2025, although Samsung could potentially beat Apple to the market by several weeks.

Reports suggest that Samsung’s sleek device will feature a 6.7-inch display, with its thickness potentially ranging from 6mm to 6.9mm. It may also surprise users with an impressive camera setup (200MP main + 50MP ultra-wide + 50MP zoom), though details about the processor remain unclear.

As for the iPhone 17 Air, it seems it won’t offer significant hardware advancements apart from its slimmer design. Speculations point towards a single rear camera, a smaller battery, and a frame made of titanium-aluminum.

Apple is expected to introduce a new battery design that encapsulates the cell inside a metal shell, utilizing a method called electrically induced adhesive debonding to facilitate easier repairs and replacements.