Apple Event 2025: iPhone 17, iPhone Air, Apple Watch, and AirPods Expected to Launch
For Apple fans, it’s the tech world’s version of Super Bowl Sunday.
On Tuesday, Apple will host its highly anticipated annual hardware event at its Cupertino, California headquarters, starting at 1 p.m. ET. The company is expected to unveil the iPhone 17 lineup, a new iPhone Air, updates to the Apple Watch, and the latest AirPods.
Apple has teased the event with the phrase “awe dropping,” sparking even more speculation about what’s to come.
Why This Year’s Apple Event Matters
Apple’s iPhone events are always the company’s biggest stage of the year, but the pressure is especially high in 2025.
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iPhone sales have slowed, with tough competition from Android rivals.
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AI advancements from Google and Samsung are leaving Apple playing catch-up.
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Geopolitical trade tensions and tariffs are cutting into profits.
Simply refreshing colors or tweaking the camera isn’t enough this time. Investors, analysts, and consumers are all waiting to see if Apple can deliver a real game-changer.
Apple stock is already down about 2.5% this year, missing out on the tech market rally that boosted other Big Tech giants.
iPhone 17 and the New iPhone Air
The spotlight of the event is expected to shine on Apple’s newest addition: the iPhone Air.
Reports from Bloomberg and TFI Securities suggest Apple will release four models:
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iPhone 17 Air
The iPhone Air is rumored to be slimmer and lighter than traditional models, with a screen size between the standard iPhone 17 and the larger Pro Max. While it may sacrifice some battery and camera power, it’s designed to appeal to users who want a sleeker, more portable device.
The “Air” branding would also match Apple’s other successful product lines, like the MacBook Air and iPad Air, and could finally replace the struggling Mini and Plus series.
Meanwhile, the rest of the iPhone 17 family is expected to feature improved battery life, sharper cameras, and refined designs, ensuring Apple keeps pace in the premium smartphone market.
Competition From Android Rivals
Apple isn’t the only player pushing slimmer smartphones.
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Samsung recently launched its Galaxy S25 Edge with ultra-thin 5.8mm sides.
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Tecno introduced the Tecno Slim at just 5.9mm at the IFA tech show in Europe.
With rivals getting ahead on design and AI integration, Apple is under pressure to prove it still sets the gold standard.
Will iPhone Prices Go Up?
For years, Apple has kept iPhone prices steady — but that could change in 2025.
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Analysts estimate Apple will take a $1.1 billion hit from tariffs this quarter.
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Morgan Stanley predicts a $100 increase for the iPhone Pro and a premium price for the iPhone Air, about $100 higher than the iPhone 16 Plus.
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Other estimates suggest prices may rise 5% to 10% across the lineup.
While a higher price tag could be a tough sell, some analysts believe consumers will accept modest increases if Apple delivers meaningful upgrades.
What About Apple’s AI Strategy?
One big question hanging over this year’s event: Will Apple reveal its AI plans?
So far, the company has been quiet, while rivals have made bold moves. Analysts don’t expect major “Apple Intelligence” announcements, but many are hoping for at least some roadmap clarity.
As Gadjo Sevilla, senior technology analyst at Emarketer, explained:
“With hardware and design under its command, but the unpredictable landscape of AI out of its hands, Apple is determined to capture consumer excitement and keep momentum rolling, regardless of the shifting tides in technology.”
What’s Next
Apple hasn’t confirmed the details, but excitement is building. If the iPhone Air is real, it could become one of the most significant updates in years — giving consumers a slimmer, stylish alternative to existing models.
Between new iPhones, pricing shifts, and questions about AI, Apple’s 2025 event may set the tone for the company’s future in a fast-changing tech market.