iPhone 17 launch to mark the end of this ‘popular’ model

Apple is gearing up for the highly anticipated launch of its iPhone 17 series during the annual 'Awe-Dropping' event scheduled for September 9, 2025. Following the event, global pre-orders are expected to commence, with sales officially kicking off on September 19. One of the most significant changes in this lineup is the introduction of the iPhone 17 Air, which will take the place of the traditional Plus variant. This shift signals the conclusion of the iPhone Plus era, which was initially introduced as a budget-friendly option for consumers desiring larger screens. With an increasing demand for sleeker, high-end devices, Apple has decided to phase out the Plus model. The iPhone 17 Air is rumored to feature a large 6.6-inch display while boasting an impressively thin and lightweight design, potentially measuring just 5.5 mm, making it the slimmest iPhone to date. Speculations indicate that the device will utilize a titanium-aluminium hybrid frame, allowing it to weigh around 145 grams, considerably lighter than its predecessors. In terms of camera capabilities, the iPhone 17 Air is expected to come equipped with a single 48MP rear camera and a 24MP front-facing camera. Additionally, it may house either an A19 or A19 Pro chip along with 12GB of RAM. The device is also anticipated to support 120Hz refresh rates and run on iOS 26. Apple's introduction of the iPhone 17 Air is likely part of a strategy to streamline its product offerings to just four models: the standard iPhone 17, the iPhone 17 Air, the iPhone 17 Pro, and the iPhone 17 Pro Max. This consolidation aims to provide a more cohesive range of options under a thinner and more compact design framework. In conjunction with the launch of the iPhone 17 series, Apple is expected to retire several older models, including the iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max, and previous Plus editions, marking a significant shift in its product lineup.