iPhone Air Review: Design Wins, But Two Issues Remain

The iPhone Air has been identified as the most exciting smartphone released by Apple since the iPhone X. It features a thin, lightweight design that breaks the redundancy of previous lineups.

Despite initial enthusiasm, two specific issues arose during daily use that halted full commitment to the device.

The iPhone Air marks a distinct change in Apple's design trajectory. For the first time in years, the device feels genuinely different compared to its predecessors.

Since the iPhone 11 lineup, the visual and tactile experience of iPhones has felt increasingly redundant. The iPhone Air breaks this pattern by prioritizing physical feel and user experience over chasing raw specifications.

This approach has resulted in a device that serves as a "genuine breath of fresh air" in a stagnant market. The focus on design and experience makes the hardware special.

Upon release, the reviewer immediately inserted their main SIM card into the iPhone Air. The initial reaction was overwhelmingly positive, with the reviewer stating they "loved it" at the start.

However, the transition from initial excitement to long-term usage revealed underlying problems. The device was tested "day in and day out" as a primary phone.

Over time, the experience shifted. The positive first impressions were slowly eroded by consistent drawbacks that emerged during regular operation.

While the iPhone Air excels in design, it falls short in practical application for the reviewer. Two specific issues prevented the reviewer from fully committing to the device.

These issues were not immediately apparent. Instead, they manifested gradually as the device was used as a daily driver.

The presence of these problems suggests that while the iPhone Air is a step forward in aesthetics, it may lag in functional reliability.

The iPhone Air stands out as a unique entry in Apple's catalog, specifically distinguishing itself from the iPhone 11 era and beyond. Its commitment to a thin, lightweight profile is a victory for design enthusiasts.

However, the existence of two persistent issues creates a barrier to widespread adoption. The device struggles to balance its innovative form factor with the reliability required for daily use.

Ultimately, the iPhone Air is a polarizing device. It offers a refreshing design but comes with caveats that may give potential users pause.