Affordable iPhone 17 Air Incoming? Bezel-free Display and Foldable iPhone Launch Rumored for 2026

Reports reveal Apple’s ambitious roadmap for the future. As per reports, they indicate they are working on two foldable devices designed for 2026 and beyond, and an ultra-slim iPhone 17 Air will be released next year.

iPhone 17 Air: Sleek, Affordable, and Positioned to Revive Growth

Apple’s Next Device May Help Resurge GrowthThe iPhone 17 Air could represent a fundamental shift for Apple’s product lineup. According to reports, it will feature an ultra-thin profile thinner than 8 millimeters for visually arresting designs and improved battery life compared to current iPhones; Apple believes this ultra-slim form factor may attract customers looking for devices with visually appealing designs while offering exceptional value.

Initial speculation indicated the iPhone 17 Air would be Apple’s most costly offering, surpassing Pro Max models in price, yet recent reports indicate it may instead start at around $900 and make itself more accessible than Pro models that start at $998.

Apple is expected to introduce the iPhone 17 Air, which is equipped with an economical camera system designed to keep its price affordable in an effort to attract consumers who prioritize aesthetics and affordability over advanced camera capabilities.

Apple is touting this new model as a “growth driver,” in an effort to rejuvenate their iPhone lineup after years of only providing incremental upgrades for flagship models.

Apple Announces Foldable Device Plans

In addition to developing the iPhone 17 Air, Apple is investigating foldable technology with two innovative products.

Apple is expected to unveil a foldable iPhone with a larger display than that found on its 6.9-inch iPhone 16 Pro Max, possibly exceeding 7 inches wide.

Apple initially explored outward-folding designs for early prototypes; however, now utilizing an inward folding method that better protects its display when folded up.

Apple has experienced difficulties with its hinge mechanism and display durability, leading to delays. Still, their goal remains 2026 for the release date while prioritizing quality and functionality for their first foldable iPhone device – Foldable Laptop-Like Device

Apple is working on developing a larger foldable device, which could serve as an innovative combination between an iPad and a MacBook. When opened out completely, this revolutionary portable computing solution could feature up to 19-inch displays – offering an innovative take on portable computing.

Initial plans called for this larger foldable to launch before Apple’s foldable iPhone; however, recent events indicate it is taking precedence.

Apple’s Vision for a Bezel-Free iPhone

Apple has long envisioned creating a completely bezel-free iPhone, and recent supply chain leaks suggest the company initially aimed to achieve this ambitious design with the iPhone 18, which is expected to launch in 2026. However, technical challenges have made this goal uncertain despite ongoing efforts from display suppliers Samsung and LG.

Aiming for a Seamless Design

Bezel-free iPhones fit neatly within Apple’s mission of creating devices made entirely out of one “single slab of glass,” wherein all frontal surfaces of devices form one seamless display without visible bezels or edges. Apple began this journey with the iPhone 5s.

Beginning with the launch of the iPhone X in 2017, which significantly reduced bezels, progress toward their complete removal has been gradual over time.

Reports indicate that Apple aims to develop an iPhone design where the display wraps around all sides, creating one continuous and uninterrupted screen. While Apple’s vision may be bold, suppliers are struggling to meet Apple’s stringent requirements to bring this ambitious design to fruition.

Will the iPhone 18 Achieve This Vision?

Apple’s ambition to create a bezel-free iPhone comes with numerous technical challenges that must be resolved before it becomes a reality. Key issues include:

Waterproofing: Ensuring the joint between the curved display and the phone’s body remains watertight.

Visual Distortions: Addressing problems like the “magnifying glass effect,” which can occur with curved screen edges.

Antenna Performance: Maintaining strong antenna functionality without interference from the new design.

Durability: Enhancing the durability of curved screen edges, which are more susceptible to impact damage.

Additionally, Apple’s display suppliers, Samsung and LG, face difficulties in meeting the company’s stringent requirements for this advanced design. Discussions between Apple and its partners are ongoing, with some hurdles still unresolved.

So as I discussed before Apple is also working on foldable devices, prioritizing hinge durability and display cover protection during their development. While the foldable iPhone is expected to launch in 2026, Apple’s commitment to quality could lead to further modifications before its release.

In the meantime, the ultrathin iPhone 17 Air is rumored to cater to design-conscious buyers seeking a sleek and affordable option, while the foldable devices are likely to appeal to tech enthusiasts and professionals. These innovations demonstrate Apple’s dedication to diversifying its product lineup and staying at the forefront of smartphone and device innovation.

Although Apple initially aimed to debut at least one bezel-free model with the iPhone 18, these challenges cast uncertainty over the timeline. However, with ample time before the iPhone 18 launch, Apple might overcome these obstacles and make the bezel-free design a reality.