Apple and Samsung are reportedly preparing to release slim flagship smartphones this year, with Apple expected to unveil the iPhone 17 Air (also referred to as the iPhone 17 Slim) and Samsung rumored to add a Galaxy S25 Slim variant to its Galaxy S25 lineup. Both devices are anticipated to offer reduced thickness compared to their predecessors, targeting users seeking sleeker designs.
iPhone 17 Air to launch alongside the iPhone 17 series in September
According to a report by Sisajournal, Apple plans to launch the iPhone 17 Air alongside the iPhone 17 series in the second half of 2025, likely in September. The iPhone 17 Air is expected to replace the iPhone 16 Plus in the lineup, offering a thinner design at 6.25mm thick — approximately 1.65mm slimmer than the iPhone 16. Pricing is rumored to match the iPhone 16 Plus, with a premium range between $1,299 and $1,500 (roughly ₹1,09,000 to ₹1,26,000).
The iPhone 17 Air may feature Apple’s A18 or A19 chip, support for 8GB RAM, and the company’s first in-house 5G and Wi-Fi chips. Additionally, all iPhone 17 models, including the Air, are expected to include ProMotion displays.
Galaxy S25 Slim could debut later in the year
Samsung’s Galaxy S25, Galaxy S25+, and Galaxy S25 Ultra are set to launch on January 22, 2025, while the rumored Galaxy S25 Slim variant may arrive later in the second or third quarter. Reports suggest that Samsung initiated development of the Slim model following Apple’s plans for the iPhone 17 Air.
The Galaxy S25 Slim is expected to feature a mid-6mm thickness, thinner than the Galaxy S24 (7.6mm), and leverage ALoP (All Lenses on Prism) technology to shrink the camera module size. While pricing details remain unclear, the Slim model could cost less than the Galaxy S25 Ultra, aligning with Samsung’s strategy of offering a premium yet relatively affordable option.
Both companies are gearing up for a competitive year in the smartphone market, with these slim flagship models aiming to set new design benchmarks. Further details on the Galaxy S25 Slim and iPhone 17 Air are expected in the coming months.
