Apple and Samsung are gearing up to introduce slimmer high-end smartphones in 2025, and a new report from Korea sheds light on the upcoming iPhone 17 Air and Samsung Galaxy S25 Slim. Both devices are expected to debut as thinner, more stylish alternatives in their respective lineups, offering premium design without a hefty price increase.
iPhone 17 Air to Replace iPhone 16 Plus
The iPhone 17 Air will reportedly take the place of the iPhone 16 Plus, which has struggled with sales since its introduction. Despite its sleeker profile, the iPhone 17 Air is expected to maintain the same price range as the iPhone 16 Plus, making it an attractive option for those seeking a more compact yet premium smartphone without paying extra for the design upgrade.
According to the leak, the iPhone 17 Air will have a thickness of 6.25mm, slightly thicker than previously rumored but still significantly slimmer than other models in the iPhone lineup. Apple is set to unveil the iPhone 17 series, including the Air, at its annual event in September 2025.
Samsung Galaxy S25 Slim – Positioned Between S25+ and S25 Ultra
Samsung is reportedly accelerating the development of its Galaxy S25 Slim, a move triggered by Apple’s plans for the iPhone 17 Air. The S25 Slim is rumored to be around 6.5mm thick, making it one of the slimmest smartphones ever produced by Samsung.
The Galaxy S25 Slim is expected to slot into Samsung’s lineup between the Galaxy S25+ and the Galaxy S25 Ultra, offering a more affordable option with a slim profile and premium features. While Samsung will reveal the S25 Slim at its next Unpacked event later this month, the device isn’t expected to hit store shelves for a few more months.
Pricing and Competition
Both devices are set to compete fiercely in the premium mid-range market. The iPhone 17 Air’s pricing strategy, matching that of the iPhone 16 Plus, indicates Apple’s intent to attract buyers seeking a high-end design without a premium price. Meanwhile, the Galaxy S25 Slim is likely to be positioned below the S25 Ultra, giving Samsung a competitive edge in terms of price.