Does the iPhone 17 Air Really Resemble the Google Pixel Series?
Apple has always been known for its meticulous approach to design, making incremental refinements rather than abrupt changes. However, with the iPhone 17 lineup, the tech giant appears to be taking a bold new direction. Recent leaks suggest a radical departure from Apple’s established design philosophy, and the most intriguing revelation? The iPhone 17 Air bears an uncanny resemblance to Google’s Pixel 9.
Watch the video below rendered created by @zellzoi for Front Page Tech
A Fresh Aesthetic Inspired by Google?
For weeks, speculation has been rife about Apple embracing a new visual identity, and now, credible sources confirm that the iPhone 17 Air will adopt a horizontal camera bump—a design element synonymous with Google’s Pixel devices. Unlike previous models that featured vertically stacked cameras, this shift signals Apple’s willingness to experiment with an entirely different form factor.
The iPhone 17 Pro will still retain its distinctive triple-lens setup housed in a larger camera module. However, the iPhone 17 Air is expected to stand out with a sleeker profile and a horizontally aligned camera bar, evoking strong similarities to the upcoming Google Pixel 9. This design choice enhances the Air’s lightweight aesthetic while reinforcing Apple’s focus on premium minimalism.
Premium Build, Minimalist Camera Approach
A surprising aspect of the iPhone 17 Air is its decision to feature a single rear camera, a move reminiscent of the rumored iPhone SE 4 (or iPhone 16E, depending on reports). However, unlike Apple’s budget-friendly SE series, the iPhone 17 Air will carry a hefty price tag—reportedly around $1,300. Given this premium positioning, Apple is likely equipping it with cutting-edge image processing capabilities to ensure the single lens delivers flagship-level photography.
Apple seems to be targeting users who prioritize a refined and ultra-lightweight experience over having multiple camera lenses. It’s a deliberate shift—one that aims to offer a premium device without the bulk of Pro models while still delivering top-tier performance.
Replacing the Plus Lineup?
Perhaps the most significant shift is Apple’s reported plan to phase out the underperforming iPhone Plus models in favor of the Air series. The Plus variants have struggled to carve out a niche, often overshadowed by the more feature-rich Pro models while failing to attract users seeking affordability. The introduction of the iPhone 17 Air suggests Apple is realigning its product strategy, offering a compelling middle ground for those who want more than the base model but aren’t ready to invest in a Pro Max.
A Strategic Shift for Apple
The iPhone 17 Air represents more than just a design overhaul—it’s a statement. Apple appears to be reassessing what defines a premium iPhone, moving beyond the traditional formula of simply adding more cameras or increasing screen size. By adopting a Pixel-inspired aesthetic and focusing on a lightweight, streamlined experience, Apple is not just chasing trends but redefining its own approach to smartphone design.
Whether this bold pivot will resonate with loyal Apple fans remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—the iPhone 17 Air is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing releases in recent years.