iPhone 17, new Macs are all set to become sleeker, but how is Apple going to do that? Explained

Apple is planning to launch a new iPhone that will be sleeker and possibly part of an “Air” version of its iPhone lineup, similar to the MacBook Air and iPad Air. While there are reports about the possibility of this new iPhone 17 Air launch in 2025, a new report now hints that Apple’s plans to make its devices slimmer are not limited to just an iPhone Air model but to its entire product lineup.

According to a recent report by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple is working on its next-generation devices featuring a new in-house modem. This modem is likely to reduce Apple’s reliance on Qualcomm chips and contribute to making upcoming iPhones and Macs slimmer and sleeker.

Gurman explains that the development of Apple’s new modem, codenamed “Sinope,” is progressing. This modem is expected to debut in 2025, enabling Apple to deliver significant upgrades to the design and connectivity options of its devices. Gurman notes that Sinope will be smaller and more energy-efficient than the Qualcomm chips currently in use. Its reduced size and power requirements may allow Apple to minimize internal components, paving the way for thinner and lighter devices.

The launch of these thinner devices is expected to begin in early 2025, starting with the introduction of the iPhone SE 4. This much-anticipated affordable iPhone could be Apple’s first device featuring its in-house modem, with other devices to follow.

Gurman’s report also highlights that Apple’s new modem could extend to other product categories. Lower-end iPads might adopt the modem in 2025, followed by the Pro models in 2026. Additionally, the Vision Pro headset and potential lightweight AR glasses could benefit from this technological advancement.

Regarding the iPhone Air, Gurman mentions that Apple is planning to launch a new iPhone model, codenamed “D23,” which could become the thinnest iPhone ever. By reducing internal component space, Apple may be able to incorporate larger batteries and advanced camera systems without compromising the sleek form factor for which the brand is renowned.

The report also hints at Apple’s potential entry into the foldable phone market. While details remain scarce, the compact design enabled by the Sinope modem could be a critical step toward foldable devices. This move would mark Apple’s debut in a category currently dominated by competitors such as Samsung and Huawei.