iPhone Air: Lightweight and Portable

A First Look at the Remarkably Lightweight iPhone Air

Having spent the last ten days with the iPhone Air, I can definitively state that the reports are accurate: it truly is exceptionally light and thin. However, a more pertinent question arises – is Apple’s slimmest phone to date, measuring just 5.64 millimeters in thickness, worth the compromises inherent in its design?

Comparing to Other Models

For over eighteen months, I’ve relied on the iPhone 15 Pro Max as my primary device, frequently utilizing flagship Android phones as secondary options. This experience provides a solid understanding of what a substantial smartphone feels like. In contrast, the iPhone Air is so lightweight that upon initially handling the iPhone 17 Pro Max after using the Air, the Pro Max felt unexpectedly heavy. This stark difference highlights Apple’s achievement and the potential trade-offs involved.

Those who have held the iPhone Air consistently comment on its exquisite appearance and tactile feel, despite being only 12 grams lighter than the iPhone 17. I concur with this assessment. I find myself repeatedly lifting the phone simply to re-experience that sensation. While the appeal of a phone’s construction may eventually diminish, I am currently thoroughly enjoying it.

Ergonomics and Portability

The phone isn’t compact in size. Its thin profile, however, enhances its grip. (Apologies to iPhone Mini enthusiasts.) However, those who struggle with one-handed operation of larger phones will find this model similarly challenging due to its 6.5-inch screen.

As the title suggests, I often find myself unaware that the iPhone Air is even in my pocket. If you experience difficulty fitting larger phones into your pockets, the iPhone Air is likely to accommodate it. If you don’t encounter such issues, your pockets will simply feel less burdened.

Durability Considerations

Despite its slim design, the phone demonstrates considerable sturdiness. It survived a fall from a bedside table without damage. I even inadvertently sat on it once, and it retained its shape. Numerous videos online corroborate its ability to withstand typical daily use.

I generally use phones without cases, and I wanted to avoid adding bulk or thickness to the iPhone Air. However, a case is recommended if you intend to utilize Apple’s new shoulder strap. Alternatively, Apple’s bumper case offers additional protection without significantly increasing the weight.

Battery Life and Performance

The iPhone Air’s slender build has naturally sparked discussion regarding its battery performance. I observed that the phone tends to heat up during demanding tasks like gaming or video streaming, particularly around the camera area, prompting more frequent battery level checks.

The device possesses the processing power necessary for graphically intensive games. However, if you anticipate heavy usage throughout the day, Apple’s $99 MagSafe battery pack – which attaches to the back – is a worthwhile investment, ensuring all-day power. An additional benefit of the pack is its ability to charge MagSafe-compatible AirPods.

The iPhone Air’s battery life is adequate for typical tasks such as calls, video viewing, social media browsing, and email management while connected to Wi-Fi. During a two-hour flight, watching a downloaded Netflix movie resulted in only a minor decrease in battery level. However, remember that this is a new device, and battery capacity will diminish over time, potentially becoming a concern with prolonged use.

Camera Capabilities

Another limitation of the iPhone Air lies in its camera system, featuring a single-lens rear camera. It incorporates a 48-megapixel sensor with an f/1.6 aperture, mirroring the base iPhone 17. The 26 millimeter focal length lens includes sensor-shift stabilization for capturing quality images in various lighting conditions. While image detail is satisfactory, I’ve noticed a tendency for the iPhone’s post-processing to brighten backgrounds beyond what is visually perceived.

A dedicated telephoto lens is absent, requiring reliance on a 2x crop from the main sensor. However, the zoom performs well in most conditions, excluding low-light scenarios. As a pet owner, I’ve come to value a good zoom for capturing candid moments without disturbing my animals, a feature I missed on the iPhone Air.

The lack of an ultra-wide lens may be a drawback for frequent travelers or those who enjoy photographing expansive landscapes.

Selfie Camera and Other Features

Apple has updated the selfie camera across the new lineup with a new square 18-megapixel sensor. This allows for selfies in various formats without needing to hold the phone in landscape mode. Center Stage automatically adjusts the aspect ratio when multiple people are in the frame. Manual zoom and orientation control are also available. The new iPhones also offer the ability to record video simultaneously using both front and rear cameras.

Notably, the Air retains the traditional camera control button found on previous iPhones, though I haven’t utilized it extensively.

Audio Output

A minor drawback is the single speaker. The iPhone Air’s design precluded the inclusion of bottom-mounted speakers. Audio is emitted solely from the speaker located at the top of the screen during gaming, music playback, or speakerphone calls. While I primarily use AirPods, I did miss the presence of dual speakers when watching videos without headphones.

Final Thoughts

Apple has successfully overcome the engineering challenges to create a remarkable phone. The more difficult task now is persuading consumers to purchase it. The Air occupies the fourth position in Apple’s annual iPhone lineup, replacing the Mini and Plus models. Apple’s goal is for the Air to outperform those predecessors. But the crucial question remains: for whom is this phone intended?

As my colleagues Amanda Silberling and Julie Bort observed at launch, the iPhone Air’s aesthetic appeal is immediately captivating. Holding the phone may further solidify that impression. I described the iPhone Air to a friend as a “vibe phone” – prioritizing style and feel over sheer practicality.

It’s not a phone you can confidently charge in the morning and expect to last the entire day without supplemental battery power. However, if aesthetics or portability are paramount, and all-day battery life or a multi-lens camera system are less critical, the iPhone Air is a compelling option. Otherwise, the other models in the iPhone lineup may be more suitable.