The iPhone Air, while experiencing slower sales compared to the iPhone 17 models, is garnering attention for its slim profile and large display. Early concerns centered on battery life given the device’s ultra-thin design and limited camera array. Apple initially claimed the iPhone Air would offer all-day battery life, a statement seemingly undercut by the simultaneous announcement of a MagSafe battery pack accessory.
Recent, extended battery testing conducted by CNET confirms Apple’s all-day battery life claim. Abrar Al-Heeti of CNET, after weeks of use, reported the iPhone Air consistently lasted throughout the day, with minimal need for the MagSafe battery pack. “Impressively, the iPhone Air has consistently lasted all day over the last several weeks I’ve been using it,” Al-Heeti stated.
CNET’s comprehensive battery stress tests, applied to the iPhone 17 models and the iPhone Air, provide an objective assessment beyond individual reviewer experiences. The video streaming test, involving three hours of playback at full brightness over Wi-Fi, yielded notable results: the iPhone 17 Pro Max lost 9%, the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone Air lost 15% (matching the iPhone 15), and the standard iPhone 17 lost 11%.
A 45-minute stress test, simulating gaming, streaming, social media usage, and video calls, revealed the iPhone 17 Pro Max experienced a battery drop of just 1%, marking the best result of the year. The iPhone Air’s battery dropped 5%, mirroring the performance of the iPhone 15, but outperforming competing devices with larger battery packs, including the Galaxy S25 series, and tying the Motorola Razr Ultra.
