Apple is gearing up to expand its iPhone lineup with a new model, the iPhone 17 Air, according to a report by Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. This move is seen as a natural progression, given the success of the "Air" moniker in Apple's thinner MacBook and iPad products. The iPhone 17 Air is expected to be more appealing than the current iPhone Plus or mini offerings.

The iPhone 17 Air will boast Apple's first in-house modem, which is set to debut in the new iPhone SE in the spring. This marks a significant milestone for the company, as it shifts away from relying on third-party modem suppliers. The in-house modem is likely to provide Apple with greater control over the technology and potentially improve performance and efficiency.

Another notable feature of the iPhone 17 Air is its sleek design, which will make it Apple's thinnest smartphone yet. Measuring two millimeters thinner than the current iPhones, the iPhone 17 Air represents a step towards the foldable iPhone and iPad that Apple is reportedly developing for 2026 or later. This design advancement is likely to appeal to consumers who value portability and aesthetics in their mobile devices.

In addition to the iPhone 17 Air, Gurman's report also mentions other Apple products expected to launch in 2025, including a smart home hub. However, a new version of the company's mixed reality headset, the Vision Pro, is not on the list. This suggests that Apple may be focusing on refining its existing products and expanding its ecosystem before revisiting its augmented reality ambitions.

The introduction of the iPhone 17 Air and Apple's in-house modem has significant implications for the tech industry. As Apple continues to develop its own components, it may lead to a shift in the global supply chain and potentially impact the business of third-party suppliers. Furthermore, the iPhone 17 Air's design and features may influence the direction of future smartphone development, as competitors strive to keep pace with Apple's innovations.

In conclusion, the iPhone 17 Air marks an exciting development in Apple's product lineup, and its features and design are likely to have a lasting impact on the tech industry. As Apple continues to push the boundaries of innovation, consumers can expect to see even more impressive products in the years to come.