Apple is working on the iPhone 17 Air, an ultra-thin model that would measure just 5.5 millimeters thick. Expected for September 2025, this smartphone would replace the iPhone Plus which never really found its audience. The Cupertino company has promised to revolutionize the market with this new format, but a major challenge arises: how to integrate sufficient battery into such a small space?
Since April, rumors have been talking about innovative solutions to maintain good autonomy. Apple planned to use silicon anode batteries and its own C1 modem, already present in the iPhone 16. These technologies were to compensate for the reduction in space, but the latest information points to a less favorable compromise than hoped for future users.
A battery that takes a leap into the past
Informant Instant Digital, which has more than 1.4 million subscribers on Weibo (the equivalent of Facebook in China), has just confirmed worrying information. The iPhone 17 Air battery will not reach 3000 mAhwhich brings us back to the capacities of the iPhone 12 and 13. This value corresponds to previous rumors which mentioned precisely 2800 mAh.
However, prepare yourself for a new software update that could save the day. iOS 26 will introduce an “Adaptive Power Mode” tailored to each iPhone model. That of the 17 Air will probably be more successful. The feature analyzes the way you use your phone to optimize energy consumption and try to maintain a full day of battery life.
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According to internal testing, it appears that the new silicon anode technology is not enough to make up for the iPhone 17 Air’s battery capacity gap.
Internal tests not very reassuring
Data from Apple’s laboratories reveals the reality of performance. According to a report by The Information, only 60 to 70% of users will be able to go an entire day without recharging their iPhone 17 Air. This figure rises to 80-90% for other iPhone models, a notable difference that shows the price of thinness.
Faced with this situation, Apple is preparing a complementary solution. A case with integrated battery may be released specifically for the iPhone 17 Air. This will be the first accessory of this type since the iPhone 11 battery case.
By: Keleops AG
