Apple(US:AAPL) 3 6 Ke·2025-10-14 13:21Core Insights - Apple CEO Tim Cook has begun live streaming sales for the iPhone 17 series, announcing that the iPhone Air will be available for pre-order on October 17 and officially released on October 22 [1] - The iPhone Air, despite some controversy in China, has garnered significant attention due to its ultra-thin design and unique product definition [1] - The launch of the iPhone Air coincides with the approval of eSIM services by major Chinese telecom operators, which is crucial for the device's functionality as it is eSIM-only [1][5] Product Features - The iPhone Air is the thinnest iPhone to date at 5.6 mm and weighs 165g, featuring a 6.5-inch XDR display and A19 Pro chip, supporting 120 Hz refresh rate [2][4] - The device's design prioritizes a large screen and lightweight build, appealing to consumers seeking these features [2] eSIM Implementation - All three major Chinese telecom operators (China Unicom, China Mobile, China Telecom) have received approval to offer eSIM services, but the actual process of obtaining eSIM may be complex and requires in-person verification [5][9] - Users must be aware that the eSIM experience in China is still developing, and the process for switching or migrating eSIMs may not be straightforward [9][10] Battery and Performance - The iPhone Air has a battery capacity of 3149mAh, which is adequate for moderate use but may not satisfy heavy users in China [16][24] - In tests, the iPhone Air showed competitive performance in terms of battery life compared to other models, but its performance may vary significantly under heavy usage scenarios [18][24] Thermal Management - The ultra-thin design of the iPhone Air raises concerns about heat accumulation, which could affect performance during intensive tasks like gaming [20][24] - While daily usage may not reveal significant performance issues, gaming and high-load applications could lead to noticeable thermal challenges [20][24] Market Positioning - The iPhone Air represents Apple's first major foray into the eSIM-only market for Chinese consumers, presenting both opportunities and challenges [23][24] - The device is positioned as a flagship for users who prioritize design and lightweight features, but it also comes with limitations that potential buyers should understand [24]