Apple To Revive Iconic Accent With The Upcoming iPhone 17 Air

Apple is reportedly testing the potential return of the Bumper case accent for the upcoming iPhone 17 Air, based on rumors shared by analyst Mark Gurman on the social media platform X (previously Twitter). This accent is predicted to cowl solely the sides of the cellphone, preserving the gadget’s slim design, very like the unique Bumper case that was first launched with the iPhone 4. Nevertheless, there isn’t a indication that the undertaking has moved past the experimental part or entered manufacturing planning presently.

The unique Bumper case gained prominence because of the notorious “Antennagate” controversy, throughout which Apple distributed the circumstances freed from cost to affected customers. The important thing benefit of this fashion is its deal with defending the gadget’s edges and corners whereas leaving the again uncovered, permitting the cellphone’s design components to stay seen. This affords a center floor for customers who need a point of safety with out totally enclosing the gadget in a bulkier case.

I imagine Apple has no less than thought of/examined a brand new case for the slimmer iPhone this 12 months that surrounds the sides however doesn’t cowl the again. It’s the same idea to the iPhone 4 Bumpers from 2010. https://t.co/6HYKmUUKSP pic.twitter.com/VzQGTFlOIg

— Mark Gurman (@markgurman) August 24, 2025

Presently, the Bumper case for the iPhone 17 Air stays an inner prototype underneath testing, and there’s no affirmation that it is going to be launched as a business product. Gurman didn’t present further particulars concerning the accent, leaving its future unsure.

The iPhone 17 Air itself is predicted to draw consideration inside Apple’s subsequent smartphone lineup as a consequence of its ultra-thin profile, drawing comparisons to Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Edge. Nevertheless, the slim design may come at the price of lowered battery capability. To compensate, Apple would possibly reintroduce or replace the Good Battery Case to increase battery life for this mannequin.

Apple’s full iPhone lineup, together with the iPhone 17 Air, is rumored to be unveiled on September 9, marking the official launch occasion for the collection. Till then, particulars about equipment just like the potential Bumper case stay speculative and a part of inner testing with no official launch affirmation.

The potential return of the Bumper case displays Apple’s consideration of balancing safety, design, and performance for its ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air, whereas adapting equipment equivalent to charging circumstances to deal with battery life challenges inherent to thinner units.

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