Apple could be gearing up to revive a nostalgic accessory with the launch of its upcoming iPhone 17 Air, expected to debut this September. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple is considering reintroducing the bumper case, a design first seen during the iPhone 4 era.
A Callback to iPhone 4’s “Antennagate” Fix
The bumper case was originally introduced in 2010 with the iPhone 4, designed to address “antennagate,” a reception issue caused by the phone’s antenna placement. Unlike regular cases, the bumper only covers the edges of the phone, leaving the back panel exposed.
If Apple moves forward with the iPhone 17 Air bumper, it will likely serve not as a technical solution but as a lightweight protection option, helping prevent scratches and corner damage while preserving the device’s ultra-slim 6.2mm profile.
Rumored Battery Case in the Works
Reports from The Information’s Wayne Ma suggest Apple may also be working on a new battery case for the iPhone 17 Air. Apple previously offered Smart Battery Cases (up to the iPhone 11 series) and the MagSafe Battery Pack, both now discontinued. The new case could revive the category, extending the phone’s ~2,900 mAh battery and potentially adding MagSafe compatibility for convenient charging.
iPhone 17 Air Expected Specs
Leaks suggest that the iPhone 17 Air will occupy the space between the standard iPhone 17 and the iPhone 17 Pro in pricing and positioning. Key rumored specs include:
- 6.6-inch OLED display
- Apple A19 chipset
- Single 48MP rear camera
- Battery around 2,900 mAh
- Pricing around $999, between the iPhone 17 ($799) and 17 Pro ($1,199)
The handset will reportedly emphasize thinness and portability, with Apple billing it as its slimmest flagship iPhone ever.
Lightweight, Sustainable Materials
The revived bumper case could be made of silicone or recycled plastic materials, aligning with Apple’s sustainability goals. While no longer tied to antenna performance, the bumper would still improve grip, shock absorption, and scratch protection for users who want protection without bulking up the slim form factor.
Apple’s annual September launch event is just weeks away, where the iPhone 17 lineup is expected to be officially unveiled. If the bumper case and battery case rumors prove true, Apple could be bringing back some of its most recognizable accessories, blending nostalgia with modern functionality.