As we get closer to the iPhone 16 series launch event, rumours and leaks for the next-generation iPhones have started to surface online. Apple is reportedly working on its 2025 models, and there is talk about a significant addition to the lineup. According to a Bloomberg report, Apple may introduce a new model called the iPhone 17 Air next year, which could replace the existing Plus model. This speculation indicates that the iPhone 16 Plus launching this year could be the last of its kind.

The introduction of a new model in Apple’s iPhone series is always notable, as this is not the first time the company has experimented with its lineup. Back in 2020, Apple introduced the iPhone Mini, offering a compact option at a lower price than the standard model but better features than the SE variant. Despite its potential, the Mini failed to receive the expected response, leading Apple to discontinue it and re-introduce the Plus model, which had been absent for several years.

The Plus model made a comeback with the iPhone 14 series after Apple discontinued the Mini. However, according to the latest report, the Plus model is also not performing as well as Apple hoped. Many consumers prefer either the regular iPhone or the Pro model, possibly influenced by pricing considerations. In view of this, it is now being reported that Apple is planning to introduce the iPhone 17 Air alongside the 2025 iPhone 17 series.

The iPhone 17 Air is expected to feature a very slim design, making it one of its key selling points. Positioned between the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro, the Air model is speculated to offer a balance of style and functionality. According to the report, the iPhone 17 Air could provide Apple with better returns than the Mini and Plus versions, which did not meet the company’s sales expectations.

,The selling point would probably go something like this: if you want something flashier than a standard iPhone — but don’t really need the performance, screen size or cameras of the Pro model — you can get something that looks cooler and has the specs of a regular iPhone,, This has been suggested in the report.

Meanwhile, leaks indicate that the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max will likely launch on September 9, 2024. More details will emerge as we get closer to the event, so stay tuned to India Today Tech for all the latest updates.