Apple to Embrace Ultra-Thin Design with Upcoming iPhone 19 Pro

As anticipation builds for the slim-profiled iPhone 17 Air, Apple appears to be laying the groundwork for a significant design transformation across its future iPhone lineup. A new report from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reveals that Apple is planning to extend the ultra-thin design philosophy beyond just one model—possibly starting with the iPhone 19 Pro in 2027.

From Foldables to Feather-Light Flagships

The 2026 iPhone lineup may mark Apple’s debut in the foldable smartphone segment. However, in 2027, Apple’s attention will likely shift toward launching iPhones with dramatically reduced thickness. According to Gurman, the company plans to redesign all future models—starting with the iPhone 19 Pro—with an ultra-slim profile, building on the design of the rumoured iPhone 17 Air.

A Radical Redesign for the iPhone's 20th Anniversary

The iPhone 19 series is expected to commemorate the device's 20th anniversary with a major visual overhaul. Gurman notes that Apple is exploring the use of more glass in its Pro models, suggesting a seamless, futuristic appearance that aligns with Apple’s design ethos. While this approach may raise questions about durability and repairability, the bold aesthetic shift would be in line with Apple’s history of pushing design boundaries.

The iPhone 17 Air: A Glimpse Into the Future

Expected to launch in 2025, the iPhone 17 Air is rumoured to be the thinnest iPhone ever made, with a chassis thickness between 5.5mm and 6.25mm—surpassing the 6.9mm iPhone 6. Its lightweight design, comparable to the iPad Air, hints at Apple’s larger strategy to create devices that are both powerful and sleek.

Minimalist Camera and Display Setup for the iPhone 17 Air

To achieve its ultra-thin profile, the iPhone 17 Air may scale back on camera hardware. Reports suggest it will feature a single 48MP rear camera housed in a horizontal camera bar, forgoing the triple-lens systems seen in Pro models. While it may lack features like optical zoom, the camera is expected to meet the needs of most users with everyday photography.

The display is anticipated to measure between 6.6 and 6.7 inches—positioning it between standard and Pro Max models. This screen size, paired with a slim and lightweight body, makes the iPhone 17 Air a compelling choice for users wanting a large display without added bulk.

What Lies Ahead: Ultra-Thin Meets Foldable

Apple’s evolving design vision includes both foldable form factors and ultra-thin devices. The company may test the waters with a foldable iPhone in 2026 before rolling out the slim-profile iPhone 19 Pro the following year. With a design language centred on glass and minimalism, Apple seems set to define a new era in smartphone design.