The Wall Street Journal recently reported that the iPhone 17 Air will be priced lower than the iPhone Pro models, which breaks from earlier expectations that this ultra-thin iPhone would cost more than the iPhone Pro Max. The iPhone 17 Air is expected to feature a thinner design, potentially under 8mm, and a simpler camera system aimed at reducing production costs. This pricing shift makes the phone much more sensible, offering a sleek design at a lower cost than initially thought.
Earlier reports, such as those from The Information in May, suggested that the iPhone 17 Air could be priced higher than the iPhone Pro Max, which starts at $1,200. This would have made little sense given the phone’s thinner profile, compromised battery life, and the omission of features like a second camera. With fewer features and lower performance, a high price would not have justified the iPhone 17 Air’s value, leading to skepticism about the device’s appeal.
The iPhone 17 Air’s rumored lack of a second speaker, relying instead on the earpiece for sound output, raised further concerns about its practicality. These compromises made it difficult to justify a higher price tag, especially when consumers might have expected more features for a premium cost. However, the latest reports suggest the iPhone 17 Air will be priced more competitively, making it a more attractive option for those seeking a budget-friendly alternative to the Pro models.
With the iPhone 17 Pro potentially maintaining its current price, the iPhone 17 Air could be priced as low as $899, comparable to the iPhone 16 Plus. This price reduction, which could be as much as $400 less than initially expected, greatly enhances the iPhone 17 Air’s value proposition. Consumers will be able to purchase a thinner, more stylish phone at a price that undercuts the Pro models, making it a strong contender in Apple’s iPhone lineup.
Not only will the iPhone 17 Air offer a thinner profile, but it will also feature a 120Hz ProMotion display, a key upgrade over the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus. This feature is likely to appeal to tech enthusiasts looking for a smoother display experience. Apple is betting that the iPhone 17 Air’s fresh design and upgraded display will capture the attention of consumers, offering a more modern, affordable option without the hefty price tag of the Pro models.
