Apple’s latest iOS 26 developer beta has revealed an exciting clue about the long-awaited iPhone 17 Air. A new wallpaper file of a clownfish icon included in this release caused curiosity because of an out-of-the-ordinary screen resolution. This resolution has never been witnessed in any currently available iPhone device. The wallpaper’s dimension is 420×912 points, equivalent to 1260×2736 pixels at 3x scale. This discovery is the very first proof that Apple is working on a completely new device.
iPhone 17 Air Screen Resolution Revealed in iOS 26 Beta 2
Wallpaper resolution is greater than that of the iPhone 16 Pro. But less than the iPhone 16 Pro Max. Specifically, it’s a fraction less than the iPhone 16 Pro Max but a fraction more than the iPhone 16 Pro. Earlier reports had suggested the iPhone 17 Air would feature a screen resolution of 1260×2740 pixels.
Screen Size and Position in Apple’s Lineup
The iPhone 17 Air will probably have a 6.6-inch display. This puts it between the 6.27-inch display of the iPhone 16 Pro and the 6.8-inch display of the iPhone 16 Pro Max. A comparison shot shared along with the wallpaper files within the beta shows the display of the iPhone 17 Air to be precisely halfway between these two devices. This means Apple is aiming for a middle path, maybe with an intention to appeal to users who want something in between small and large.
A New Design Route: Ultra-Thin and Slim
Beyond screen size and resolution, the iPhone 17 Air will boast Apple’s very first “ultra-thin” design. The new device is reported to bring a new design language, different from the current series. It is created to cater to customers in need of a trendy but slim phone. Aside from design, the screen of the phone is also reported to feature 120Hz ProMotion technology. This high refresh rate will distinguish the iPhone 17 Air from low-cost models and make images smoother.
Early Software Teasers Confirm Hardware Plans
Finding the clownfish wallpaper with this unique resolution in iOS 26 developer beta 2 is an indication that Apple is actively working on the software for the iPhone 17 Air. Previews in beta software are typically positive signs about this upcoming hardware from Apple. They give us a behind-the-scenes view of the company’s development process and future device features.
In general, the iPhone 17 Air seems ready to fill a new position in Apple’s lineup with its middle size, record thinness, and leading display capabilities. One of the first strong hints of this eagerly awaited device is the new wallpaper resolution in iOS 26 beta 2. Apple fans will no doubt learn more about it as the release date nears.
