Apple and Samsung Set to Launch Super-Thin iPhones and Galaxy Phones: Are Smaller Profiles Worth the Compromises?

Both Samsung and Apple are set to launch ultra-thin smartphones by the end of the year, aiming to rekindle consumer excitement in a market where innovation has become increasingly rare. Samsung has already announced its Galaxy S25 Edge, while Apple's upcoming model, dubbed the "iPhone 17 Air," has been widely discussed in tech circles. Leaked images and measurements suggest the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge will be just 5.8mm thick and weigh 165 grams, while the iPhone 17 Air is expected to be between 5.5mm and 6mm thick. This push for thinner phones comes after years of increasing thickness driven by larger screens, advanced camera systems, and bigger batteries to ensure full-day usage. For instance, the iPhone 6, released in 2014, faced criticism for its tendency to bend, but subsequent models became thicker to accommodate better features and battery life. Now, the challenge is to balance thinness with functionality. The super-thin designs promise a more compact and lightweight user experience, but they come with significant trade-offs. A thinner phone means a smaller battery, potentially reducing battery life. Additionally, the ultra-slim form factor limits the number of rear cameras, with both the Galaxy S25 Edge and the iPhone 17 Air featuring only a single lens. While modern chipsets are more efficient, a smaller battery can still impact performance, especially for power-hungry applications like 3D mobile games. Despite these compromises, technology has advanced enough that a single high-megapixel camera sensor can offer multiple focal lengths through digital zoom, making thinness a viable feature for basic tasks such as scrolling through social media, checking emails, and browsing the web. However, the practicality of these phones is questionable. A device that can snap in half from a firm grip or slip easily out of tight jeans pockets is not ideal for everyday use. Moreover, even with a reduced thickness, both phones are expected to have large screens around 6.6 inches, which may still pose pocket-fitting issues. The initial media and influencer hype around these ultra-thin phones may be significant, but sustained consumer interest remains uncertain. Pricing is another concern. According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, the iPhone 17 Air could start at $900, which is only $100 more than the regular iPhone 17 and $100 less than the iPhone 17 Pro. However, if Apple increases prices due to tariffs or other factors, the Air model could cost more than the Pro tier. Similarly, the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge is rumored to start at around $1,200. Such high prices for thinner phones may not justify the compromises in battery life and camera quality. Industry experts suggest that consumers might be more interested in meaningful technological advancements rather than just a slimmer profile. For example, Apple could introduce anti-glare displays similar to those in Samsung's Galaxy Ultra series, which significantly reduce outdoor reflections. Improved camera quality, particularly matching or exceeding the performance of top-tier Chinese brands like Oppo and Xiaomi, could also draw more attention. Additionally, faster wired charging capabilities, such as those offered by some Asian manufacturers that can charge a phone from 0% to 100% in just 10 minutes, could be a more valuable feature. In summary, while the allure of an incredibly thin smartphone might generate initial buzz, the practical limitations and potential compromises in performance and durability may deter long-term adoption. Apple and Samsung should consider focusing on features that genuinely enhance the user experience rather than chasing fleeting design trends. The market is already saturated with capable devices, and in the current economic climate, consumers are likely to prioritize value and functionality over aesthetics.