Why Apple Passed on a Bigger iPhone 17 Air

Mon Mar 17 2025
Apple had big plans for the iPhone 17 Air. They initially thought of creating a super-slim model with a massive 6. 9-inch screen. This would have made it as large as the Pro Max version. However, they scrapped this idea. Why? Because they were worried about a repeat of the "Bendgate" fiasco from 2014. Back then, the iPhone 6 Plus would sometimes bend if put in a tight pocket. Apple did not want to risk that happening again. So, what changed their mind? They realized that a thin phone with a huge screen could easily bend. This could lead to more complaints and bad publicity. Apple learned from past mistakes. They did not want to go through another "Bendgate" scandal. So, they decided to play it safe. There were rumors about the iPhone 17 Air. Some said it would be the same size as the Pro Max but thinner. This rumor might have come from Apple's early prototypes. However, the final product will be different. It will have a 6. 6-inch display with 120Hz ProMotion support. This means the screen will be smoother and more responsive. It will also have a Dynamic Island, an A19 chip, and a single 48-megapixel rear camera. Plus, it will use Apple's custom-made C1 modem. The iPhone 17 Air is expected to launch in September. It might start at around $899 in the U. S. This price is the same as the iPhone 16 Plus, which the new model is set to replace. Apple is always looking to improve their products. They want to avoid past issues. This time, they chose to prioritize durability over a larger screen. Apple's decision shows they are learning from their past. They are willing to change their plans to avoid problems. This is a smart move. It shows they care about customer satisfaction. But, it also raises questions. Will this make the iPhone 17 Air less appealing to some users? Only time will tell. For now, Apple is playing it safe. They are focusing on what they know works. This could be a good strategy. Or, it could limit their innovation. It is a tough balance to strike.
https://localnews.ai/article/why-apple-passed-on-a-bigger-iphone-17-air-ec4f5f46

questions

    How does Apple's approach to addressing potential design flaws, such as Bendgate, reflect on their innovation and quality control processes?
    If the iPhone 17 Air had been released with the larger screen, would Apple have needed to issue bend-resistant yoga pants as an accessory?
    Could the decision to cancel the larger iPhone 17 Air be influenced by external pressures from competitors or regulatory bodies?

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