Apple compromises too much on extreme thinness: iPhone 17 Air front camera has been forced to move

MaticHoleFiller · 2026-03-26T21:15:35+00:00

Apple will launch the iPhone 17 Air this year, with a thickness of only 5.5mm, focusing on ultra-thin design. However, this sacrifices battery capacity and the physical SIM card slot, which may affect battery life and domestic availability. The front camera opening has also been adjusted, raising concerns about durability.

MaticHoleFiller

2026-03-26 21:15:35

Abstract generation in progress

Fast Technology, June 27 — Apple will release the iPhone 17 Air this year to replace the Plus series. The device features an ultra-thin body, approximately 5.5mm thick.

It should be noted that this model makes many compromises to achieve extreme thinness.

According to the latest leaked screen protector images of the iPhone 17 series, the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max are consistent with previous generations, with the front camera cutout on the right side. Only the iPhone 17 Air has the cutout shifted to the left.

It is speculated that Apple adjusted the internal structure for a thinner design, necessitating the repositioning of the front camera cutout.

However, the position of the front camera cutout has little impact on daily use, but the compressed battery capacity due to the ultra-thin design will be a major pain point for users.

According to leaks, the iPhone 17 Air’s battery capacity is only over 3,000 mAh. With a large screen and high refresh rate, this could significantly affect battery life.

To achieve maximum thinness, Apple has also eliminated the physical SIM card slot. If eSIM functionality is not available domestically later this year, this model may not be launched in China.

Additionally, concerns about the iPhone 17 Air’s structural strength have arisen. Previously, the iPhone 6 Plus experienced the “Bendgate,” where the phone could bend and deform in a pocket.

【End of article】Please be sure to credit “Fast Technology” if reprinting.

Editor: Jianjia

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