iPhone Air: A new milestone for the Apple wireless mobile platforms

Only six months after releasing its first cellular mobile platform, the C1, Apple has launched a faster version (the C1X) along with its first ever Wi-Fi/BT/Thread SoC, the N1.

With the release of the N1 chip, Apple will officially become one of the few chipset providers with a mobile platform consisting of a trifecta of devices: a cellular modem, associated RF transceiver (XCVR), and Wi-Fi/BT/Thread radio SoC. This will allow the iPhone Air to support the Wi-Fi 7 interface. So far, only Qualcomm, MediaTek, and Huawei have such platforms under their portfolio when it comes to Wi-Fi 7 certification.

Improvements in Wireless Connectivity and Speed

The C1X promises improved speed and connectivity, which will translate into a 30% increase in power efficiency compared to the iPhone 16 Pro's modem. Apple estimates it to be two times faster than the modem in the iPhone 16 Pro. DC (direct current) power consumption for the cellular radio will likely improve owing to the vapour chamber-based cooling system used throughout the phone. This is a step toward Apple's strategy to develop its cellular mobile platform.

Another notable feature in the iPhone Air and iPhone 17-series is the relocation of the cellular and Wi-Fi antennae to the outer edges of the camera plateau, a design decision ported over from the Apple Watch Ultra.

How it compares to the iPhone 17 Pro

The improvements in cellular connectivity don't come without tradeoffs. With this new model foregoing multiple camera lenses, having one less GPU core, and 31% less battery capacity (3,036 mAh) compared to the upcoming iPhone 17 Pro.

With pricing starting at US $ 999, clad in a titanium skin, and four different color options, the iPhone Air packs some powerful features in its lean chassis.