When it comes to innovation, the Galaxy S25 Edge is generating significant buzz this year. Samsung has launched its ultra-slim smartphone designed to capture the essence of the Galaxy S25 Ultra, S25 Plus, and the standard S25, all while boasting a lighter design. If you’re in the market for a sleek device, this might be a compelling option for you.
Samsung first showcased its new thin phone at the Galaxy S25 launch in January, clearly aiming to outpace Apple, which is rumored to release its own ultra-thin model, the iPhone 17 Air, later this year.
With Samsung grabbing the headlines, what challenges does the iPhone 17 Air need to address to stay competitive? I recently had the chance to test the Galaxy S25 Edge, and this is what I believe Apple needs to enhance.
What Makes the Galaxy S25 Edge Stand Out
Having used the Galaxy S25 Edge for a week now, I can say it showcases impressive engineering. It’s not just a slim device; it combines durability with style. Despite being lightweight, it feels as premium as its Galaxy S25 counterparts and houses the same powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite processor.
The only drawback? Its 3,900 mAh battery. While smaller than the base Galaxy S25’s, I found that under regular usage, the S25 Edge can last over 28 hours on a full charge, offering around seven hours of screen time. This unexpected endurance is commendable for such a thin device.
Another highlight is the 200MP main camera, which matches the Galaxy S25 Ultra’s resolution. However, it does lack a few features that might deter some users — the absence of a telephoto lens, for instance, could be a deciding factor for photography enthusiasts.
What Features Should the iPhone 17 Air Improve?
After my experience with the Galaxy S25 Edge, there are several features I’d like to see improved in the iPhone 17 Air. Primarily, the camera performance is one area where Apple could shine. The S25 Edge’s camera, while not groundbreaking, could still use some competition.
Consider this: Apple’s iPhone 16 Pro features a more consistent 48MP main camera with impressive capabilities. Upgrading the camera system for the iPhone 17 Air could drastically enhance the user experience.
Next up is battery life. Apple has a unique advantage that could lead to better optimization between hardware and software. If the iPhone 17 Air can leverage the rumored A19 processor efficiently, it could surpass the Galaxy S25 Edge in battery longevity.
Lastly, let’s not forget about accessories. The Galaxy S25 Edge is still new, meaning it lacks a variety of cases and add-ons. Apple’s ecosystem generally provides more options right from launch, so that’s something to be aware of when considering your next phone.
iPhone 17 Air: What to Expect
Rumors suggest that the iPhone 17 Air will sport a 48MP processor, similar to the iPhone 16 series, but the absence of multiple cameras may be a drawback. Apple appears to be adopting a crop-for-zoom strategy that delivers a virtual 2x optical zoom, yet true versatility is still in question.
It remains unclear what the battery specifications will be. However, early reports indicate a smaller battery at around 2,800 mAh. While iOS optimizes power efficiently, the reduced size compared to its predecessors means it will struggle to exceed the Galaxy S25 Edge’s battery life.
The Galaxy S25 Edge boasts an impressive thickness of 5.8 mm. However, the iPhone 17 Air is rumored to take this a step further with a size of just 5.4 mm, potentially setting a new standard for smartphone thinness.
Both devices may share a hefty price tag, considering their advanced technology. The Galaxy S25 Edge starts at $1,100 (around €1,050), which is $100 more than the Galaxy S25 Plus and $200 less than the luxurious Galaxy S25 Ultra.
Both the iPhone 17 Air and Galaxy S25 Edge will likely be priced at a premium, reflecting their advanced features. The speculation surrounding the iPhone 17 Air’s price remains mixed regarding whether it will be more or less expensive than the current iPhone 17 lineup. Additionally, there are hints that the iPhone 17 Air may be delayed post-launch of the rest of the lineup, although this is yet to be confirmed.
As we look ahead, Apple is slated to unveil the new iPhone 17 series, including the iPhone 17 Air, in September. Regardless of its release timing and the specifics, the trend towards thinner smartphones is clear, and the iPhone 17 Air is likely to set new benchmarks for design that competitors will strive to match. If you’re not a fan of ultra-thin phones, it’s worth considering your options. Personally, after using the Galaxy S25 Edge, I’m excited to see what Apple has in store.
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