Apple’s upcoming iPhone 17 Air appeared in leaked photos today showing a dramatic redesign that includes a horizontal camera bar similar to Google’s Pixel phones, marking a significant departure from the company’s traditional square camera bump design.
Why it matters: The leaked images suggest Apple’s thinnest iPhone ever will abandon its iconic camera design for the first time since the iPhone 11, potentially signaling a broader shift in Apple’s design philosophy as it chases ultra-thin form factors.
Design Evolution: The leaked photos, shared by tipster Majin Bu, reveal prototypes featuring a pill-shaped camera bar spanning the width of the device. This radical change comes as Apple reportedly targets an unprecedented 5.5mm thickness for the Air model, significantly thinner than the iPhone 16’s 7.8mm profile.
- Single-lens camera system visible
- Horizontal bar spans device width
- New unibody frame design
Technical Compromises: The pursuit of extreme thinness forces Apple to make significant sacrifices in key features that iPhone users have come to expect. According to recent reports, the company’s engineers are struggling to fit standard components into the ultra-thin chassis, leading to several notable compromises in functionality and performance.
- Single 48MP camera instead of dual system
- Potential battery capacity reduction
- Simplified speaker configuration
Market Positioning: Apple’s design shift mirrors successful elements from competitors while maintaining its premium positioning:
- Pixel-inspired camera aesthetic
- Ultra-thin profile focus
- Mid-range market targeting
Looking Forward: While leaks like this one and the foldable iPhone align with previous rumors about Apple’s plans for a radical redesign, the company’s mixed track record with dramatic changes suggests these prototypes may not reflect the final design.
