An iPhone 17 Air wish list

Apple's super-slim phone needs to deliver these five things.

Author

Lewis Wallace
May 10, 2025

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We’ve all heard the rumors about the upcoming spaghetti-slim iPhone 17 model, supposedly called the “iPhone Air” or the “iPhone Slim.” We’ve seen the dummy units and the videos — and yes, it looks like the new phone will be incredibly thin.

But what else will it be? Cult of Mac writer Rajesh Pandey maintains that thinness alone won’t make the device a winner. In this week’s featured story, he lays out the five features the iPhone 17 Air needs if Apple wants to wow us this fall.

What are you hoping for?

Also in this edition of The Weekender:

Enjoy your weekend!

— Lewis Wallace, managing editor

Feature story

My iPhone 17 Air wish list: 5 features Apple shouldn’t skip

The rumored iPhone 17 Air will focus on slimness. But to truly stand out, what features should Apple’s thinnest iPhone offer?

How-tos

Schedule an email to send in the future in Apple Mail

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How to upgrade your Mac's storage the smart (and cheap) way

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Translate from your Apple Watch

The Apple Watch Translate app can help you quickly speak in a different language while you’re abroad, right from your wrist.

How to use Surfshark’s free, privacy-protecting DNS server

Unlike most free DNS servers, a new one from Surfshark won’t constantly track you. Here’s how to switch to it — it’s easy!

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Join a global community of readers who believe that big questions deserve thoughtful answers. Whether you're a lifelong learner or just love a good mystery of the universe, Nautilus will challenge how you see the world — and maybe even yourself.

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News

Apple to launch larger iPhone 18 Air and foldable sequel in 2027

To stay ahead of the competition, Apple plans to launch its premium iPhones in the fall, followed by the value-focused models in spring.

Plus, more Apple rumors:

iOS 18.5 will bring satellite connectivity to iPhone 13 series

iOS 18.5 is coming, with new satellite features for the iPhone 13 series and other enhancements all recent iPhones.

Apple shows off colorful new Pride Collection watch band, faces and wallpapers

Apple unveiled its 2025 Pride Collection ahead of Pride Month -- a new Apple Watch Sport Band plus watch faces and wallpapers.

Galactic war looms as ‘Foundation’ returns for season 3 [Apple TV+ trailer]

Sci-fi epic series "Foundation" season 3 premieres in July as rebels and Empire form an uneasy alliance in the face of humanity's doom.

Plus, more Apple TV+ news:

These Swift Student Challenge winners hope to change the world through code

Apple invites you to meet Swift Student Challenge winners and their inspiring coding projects. They really might have real impact.

Apple considers building AI search into Safari

Soon, doing a search in the Safari web browser might get results from an AI like Perplexity rather than Google.

Deals

Silence the world, amp the beats and save 55% on Sony Ult Wear headphones

Sony designed the Ult Wear headphones to make every listening session feel like you’ve stepped into your own private concert.

Plus, more gear from Cult of Mac Deals:

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Rather than playing with Apple Intelligence, learn the latest AI skills with this ChatGPT courses training bundle for just $29.99.

Plus, more AI from Cult of Mac Deals:

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Plus, more software from Cult of Mac Deals:

Reviews and recommendations

This brilliant portable foldable monitor is like nothing you’ve ever seen [Review]

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How to choose the right iPad for you

Answering “Which iPad should I buy?” can be overwhelming. Apple sells six in a range of sizes and capabilities. Our iPad comparison can help.

This clever PopSocket-style grip also works with MagSafe [Review]

If you want a grip on the back of your phone and MagSafe charging, the Snap Grip Luxe combines both in a slim and clever design.

Backbone Pro makes the best iPhone game controller way, way better [Review]

Make mobile gaming much more fun with the new Backbone Pro. This controller packs in premium features, including wired and wireless options.

Setups

Mac mini rig elevates cable management to art form

This immaculate dual-display Mac mini setup shows the best desk cable management tricks remain hidden (by design).

Trio of small screens extends Studio Display in MacBook rig

A portable monitor is just one of three small screens in a very clean MacBook Pro and Studio Display setup.