The iPhone Air is larger than an iPhone 17 in height and width. Every non-plus/max iPhone since the 13 Mini came out is smaller than the Air in height and width. Wouldn't they be a more logical upgrade than the Air?

The main body of the iPhone Air is thinner, of course, but including the camera bulge, I think it's thicker than all non-pro iPhones up to the 16.

Is there something about making the main body thinner that makes the iPhone Air more comfortable to hold than other smaller phones? Is it the weight? The 17e is only 4 g heavier than the Air, and the 16e is only 2 g heavier.

I have never been interested in the Air because of the size, so I can't even remember if I have picked one up in an Apple Store.

It's bigger in all the wrong ways: https://phonesized.com/compare/#2739,1863

I reluctantly upgraded to the Air from the 13 Mini after I accidentally dropped it in water. After 3 weeks of using it now, I completely agree.

How is it better exactly, apart from the new SOC ?

Make it 3/4 an inch narrower and an inch shorter and I'll get one