Apple Set to Unveil iPhone 17 and Slim New iPhone Air in September
Apple traditionally unveils its new devices in the fall, and this year appears no different. The event is reportedly set for September 9, with the iPhone 17 lineup leading the announcements. Updates for the Apple Watch and AirPods are also expected.
Many rumors are already circulating. The iPhone 17 models may include bigger displays and improved cameras, while an ultra-thin iPhone Air could replace the Plus model. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, this will mark the first in a three-year redesign cycle, with a foldable iPhone anticipated in 2026.
The iPhone 17 Lineup
The iPhone 17 is rumored to feature a 6.3-inch screen, slightly larger than its predecessor. A 120Hz display would represent a big leap from the 60Hz panel currently used. Reports also suggest a new 24-megapixel front camera and additional color options like purple and green.
The Pro models may see bigger visual changes. Renderings indicate that the three rear cameras could sit inside a rectangular bar stretching across the back. The flash, light sensor, and microphone might shift to the far right side, while the Apple logo would be centered for design symmetry. In addition, the Pro may switch from titanium to aluminum, which could reduce weight and cost.
The iPhone 17 Pro Max is expected to gain a slightly thicker body, likely to allow for a larger battery. Prices are rumored to start at $800 for the iPhone 17, $1,050 for the Pro, and $1,250 for the Pro Max. Notably, storage options on the Pro may shrink to just three: 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB. New shades like dark blue and copper are also rumored for the Pro line.
Alongside the phones, Apple could introduce “TechWoven” cases. These reportedly feature stronger woven material and may include a crossbody strap, offering a more stylish option than the discontinued FineWoven line.
The Slim iPhone Air
Perhaps the most discussed rumor is the iPhone Air, which may replace the Plus. If true, it would be Apple’s thinnest device yet at 5.5 mm. That would make it even slimmer than Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Edge. The iPhone Air could include a 6.6-inch display and come in black, silver, and light gold, with a price of about $950.
However, such a slim profile could bring compromises. Leaks suggest the Air may include only a single rear camera, and its design might lack a bottom speaker. In that case, audio would rely solely on the top earpiece. Even so, Apple’s move toward thinner hardware would align with broader smartphone industry trends and may foreshadow the company’s foldable phone, expected in 2026.
Apple Watch and AirPods Updates
Apple’s watch lineup also appears ready for upgrades. The Ultra 3 could feature faster charging, satellite connectivity, and possibly a larger display. Blood pressure monitoring is rumored for both the Ultra 3 and Series 11, though the feature may be delayed for refinement. Apple is also considering adding sleep apnea detection. Meanwhile, the SE 3 may offer only modest changes, such as a bigger display or even a plastic version. Prices may land at $250 for the SE 3, $400 for the Series 11, and $800 for the Ultra 3.
Finally, AirPods Pro 3 could bring design and performance improvements. Smaller earbuds, a slimmer case, and touch-sensitive controls may modernize the look. With the new H3 chip, users might enjoy stronger active noise cancellation and better adaptive audio.
