New Delhi:
Apple is set to unveil its much-anticipated iPhone 17 series at its annual “Awe-Dropping” event on 9 September 2025. Global pre-orders are expected to begin soon after the launch, with official sales starting from 19 September 2025.
One of the biggest highlights of this year’s line-up is the end of the iPhone Plus era. Apple will replace the traditional Plus variant with an all-new model the iPhone 17 Air.
Apple Announces ‘Awe Dropping’ Special Event to Unveil iPhone 17 on September 9 https://t.co/EEVGVGZMBE
— Anthony Campanella (@RealAnthonyCamp) August 26, 2025
The End of the Plus Model
The iPhone Plus was originally introduced as a budget-friendly large-screen option. However, with changing consumer demand for sleeker and more premium designs, Apple has decided to phase it out.
The new iPhone 17 Air keeps the large display (around 6.6 inches) but comes with a radically thinner and lighter build. Reports suggest it could be as slim as 5.5 mm, making it the thinnest iPhone in Apple’s history.
What to Expect from the iPhone 17 Air
According to leaks and rumors, the iPhone 17 Air may feature:
-
Titanium-aluminium hybrid frame
-
Weight of just 145 grams, significantly lighter than previous Plus models
-
48MP single rear camera
-
24MP front-facing camera
-
A19 or A19 Pro chip
-
12GB RAM
-
120Hz refresh rate support
-
iOS 26 out of the box
This combination positions the Air as a premium yet ultra-portable alternative to the discontinued Plus line.
Also Read: Electric Vehicles: Driving Toward A Cleaner Future With Their Promises And Challenges
Apple’s Simplified Line-Up
With the Air taking center stage, Apple’s iPhone 17 series will consist of four models:
-
iPhone 17
-
iPhone 17 Air
-
iPhone 17 Pro
-
iPhone 17 Pro Max
This streamlining of the product line reflects Apple’s strategy of offering fewer, more distinct options for different user needs.
Broader Product Discontinuations
The changes don’t stop with the Plus. Following the launch, Apple is also expected to discontinue:
-
iPhone 16 Pro
-
iPhone 16 Pro Max
-
Older iPhone Plus editions
This marks a major shift in Apple’s smartphone strategy, as the company moves towards a leaner and more future-focused portfolio.