Alleged leak of iPhone 17 Air design reveals potential adoption of extremely thin battery by Apple
The tech world is abuzz with rumours about the upcoming iPhone 17 series, and the focus is particularly on the iPhone 17 Air. This sleek device, boasting an ultra-slim profile of just 5.5mm, is set to challenge the market with its innovative battery technology and power management strategies.
Despite the reduced battery capacity, estimated to be around 2,800 to 2,900mAh, the iPhone 17 Air is expected to provide a day's worth of battery life. This is thanks to advancements in battery life technology and the introduction of iOS 26's Adaptive Power mode. This mode dynamically optimises power consumption, making subtle adjustments like lowering screen brightness and allowing some tasks to take longer to complete, thereby conserving battery life and helping the device last through the day.
The iPhone 17 Air will also adopt a steel-encased battery technology, similar to the one used in the iPhone 16 Pro. This steel casing improves heat dissipation and battery density, providing higher structural resistance. This could help enhance battery efficiency and safety, despite the smaller capacity.
Apple seems to be relying on a combination of hardware advances, like the steel battery casing, and software optimisations in iOS 26's power management to maintain practical battery life on the iPhone 17 Air. However, it's worth noting that heavy users might need to recharge during the day or use a battery case accessory to extend usage.
The iPhone 17 Air is expected to be unveiled alongside the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max during September. The exact dates are rumoured to be between the 8th and 10th of the month.
[1] Majin Bu via 9to5Mac, August 1, 2025 [2] Various sources
(Note: The dates and specifications provided in this article are based on current rumours and leaks. The final specifications and release dates may vary.)
- The iPhone 17 Air, set to hit the market soon, will employ both hardware advancements like steel-encased battery technology and software optimizations in iOS 26's Adaptive Power mode to ensure a full day's battery life, initially estimated to house a capacity of approximately 2,800 to 2,900mAh.
- In an attempt to outclass competitors, the iPhone 17 Air is predicted to challenge the smartphone market not only with its sleek design and impressive power management strategies but also with its innovative technology, including the adoption of steel-encased battery technology, popularized by the iPhone 16 Pro.
