Thin and compact: Apple unveils the latest iPhone, measuring just 5.6mm thick

Apple has entered the realm of slim smartphones with the launch of its latest addition, the iPhone Air. Measuring a mere 5.6 millimeters in thickness, the iPhone Air is the thinnest model in Apple's lineup, as confirmed by Apple manager John Ternus.

The iPhone Air promises MacBook-like performance and enhanced durability, making it an attractive option for those seeking a sleek and powerful device. However, concerns have been raised about potential shorter battery life due to the slim design, as expressed by Craig Moffett of financial firm Moffett Nathanson.

To accommodate the slimmer design, Apple has made technical compromises. For instance, the iPhone Air features only one camera lens, a 12-megapixel telephoto camera that integrates through software and lens design.

In addition to the iPhone Air, Apple has also launched the iPhone 17, available in standard, Pro, and Pro versions. The Pro model of the iPhone 17 comes in a vibrant orange colour.

Rumours about an additional slimmer iPhone model have been circulating for some time, and Apple's announcement of the iPhone Air seems to confirm these speculations. It's worth noting that Samsung has already released a 5.8-millimeter thick iPhone competitor, the Galaxy Edge model.

Some market observers, however, have expressed skepticism about the popularity of the iPhone Air due to initial details. The new iPhone Air was announced on September 9, 2025, and is set to be released in September of the same year, with specific availability likely tied to the broader iPhone 17 series launch on September 19, 2025.

In a bid to address the battery life concerns, Apple has designed a new external battery for the iPhone Air that's held in place by magnets on the device's back. This innovative solution could potentially alleviate some of the concerns surrounding the iPhone Air's battery life.

As the release date approaches, it will be interesting to see how the market responds to Apple's thinnest iPhone model yet.