I spent 6 months with the iPhone Air — here’s what I really think about Apple’s thin phone
I spent 6 months with the iPhone Air — here’s what I really think about Apple’s thin phone
Publish Date: 2026-03-25 00:19:00
Source Domain: www.tomsguide.com
Long before it was ever announced, I was enthusiastic about the iPhone Air — a phone I thought would recapture the essence of a forward-thinking device. Six months later, though, my sentiments are a mixed bag.
In that span, I’ve used the iPhone Air to discover if it has what it takes to be the best phone around. Since its release I’ve tested more than a handful of other devices, including the iPhone 17e that I think complicates things for Apple.
While the initial allure of an ultra-thin and light iPhone was exciting, I’ve realized that I need something more than just aesthetics. Here’s what I really think about the iPhone Air.
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Thinness is no longer premium
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide)
As its name implies, Apple loves to tout the fact that the iPhone Air is the thinnest iPhone ever. Measuring just 5.64 mm at its thinnest point, it’s a remarkable feat of engineering that deserves praise — but thinness alone no longer defines a premium device. For reference, the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro measure 7.95 mm and 8.75 mm, respectively. This makes the iPhone Air roughly 30% thinner than its siblings.
Unfortunately, the wow factor of that thinness has long since faded. While those who haven’t seen the phone in person are still intrigued by the design whenever I show them the phone, they’re often surprised by how much density remains within that slim frame. They aren’t wrong to feel that way because despite its thin profile, the iPhone 17 and 17 Pro are only 17.1% and 19.1% heavier than the Air.
I would have loved for Apple to take a different approach: shrinking the phone’s overall footprint while maintaining its thinness. I realize battery life would be adversely impacted, but it’s a compromise I’d be willing to accept for a truly unique device.
I’m okay with the short battery life
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