Are Super-Thin iPhones and Samsung Galaxies Worth the Hype and Trade-offs?

The smartphone industry has seen significant changes since the debut of the original iPhone in 2007, which revolutionized touchscreens and overall user experience. However, the excitement surrounding each new release has dimmed over the years due to incremental advancements. To recapture that buzz, both Samsung and Apple are planning to launch extremely thin smartphones by the end of 2024. Samsung has officially announced its Galaxy S25 Edge, which measures an incredibly thin 5.8mm and weighs 165 grams. Leaks and rumors suggest that Apple will unveil the "iPhone 17 Air" alongside the standard and Pro models of the iPhone 17 series, with the Air version expected to be between 5.5mm and 6mm thick. These ultra-thin designs are a stark contrast to the trend of thicker phones that emerged as displays grew larger and camera systems became more complex. To support bigger screens and multi-lens camera setups, manufacturers had to accommodate larger batteries, leading to bulkier devices. While technological advancements have made chips more efficient, reducing the need for massive batteries, the push for extremely thin phones raises concerns about practicality and durability. The Galaxy S25 Edge and the rumored iPhone 17 Air both feature single-lens camera systems, which sacrifices versatility for slimness. Additionally, these phones' large 6.6-inch screens make them challenging to fit into average pants pockets, even if they are thinner. The decision to focus on thinness seems to be driven by marketing rather than consumer demand. Many users are skeptical about the value of such a thin phone, worrying it could easily break under pressure. For instance, gripping the phone tightly or placing it in tight jeans could pose risks. Despite these concerns, early media and influencer reactions are likely to be enthusiastic. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman estimates that the iPhone 17 Air could start at $900, just $100 more than the standard iPhone 17 and $100 less than the iPhone 17 Pro. However, rumors also suggest that the price could be higher, especially if tariffs impact the market. Similarly, the Galaxy S25 Edge is rumored to start at around $1,200, a premium price point that may deter buyers who don't see the practical benefits of a thinner phone. Even if these thin phones become popular, they may face issues post-purchase. Adding a protective case to the thin iPhone 17 Air would render it no different in thickness from regular models, negating the primary selling point. Critics argue that manufacturers should focus on more meaningful features rather than thinness. For example, Apple could adopt Samsung's advanced anti-glare displays, which significantly improve outdoor visibility, for the iPhone 17 Pro. This feature was reportedly considered for the iPhone 17 Pro but ultimately dropped. Additionally, enhancing camera quality to match or surpass leading Chinese brands like Oppo and Xiaomi, which offer exceptional camera systems, could provide real value to consumers. Another potential improvement is faster wired charging, which could significantly enhance user convenience. In summary, the push for super-thin smartphones by Samsung and Apple is a bold marketing strategy aimed at rekindling consumer interest. However, the practical drawbacks, including reduced battery life and camera capabilities, raise questions about the actual demand for these devices. Industry insiders suggest that manufacturers should prioritize innovations in display technology, camera quality, and charging speeds to deliver more meaningful improvements over simply pushing the limits of thinness. The smartphone market is competitive, and while Apple and Samsung lead with brand recognition and innovation, focusing on thinness for its own sake might not be the best path forward. Thinner phones could appeal to those seeking a stylish and portable device, but the potential durability and functionality issues might outweigh the benefits. Companies like Oppo and Xiaomi, known for their cutting-edge features, may offer more value to consumers looking for significant advancements. Thus, while the Galaxy S25 Edge and iPhone 17 Air might generate initial excitement, their long-term success remains uncertain.