The battery in iPhone Air has a capacity of 3,149 mAh. Apple positions this ultra‑thin model (5.6 mm, 165 g) for “all‑day” use, backed by efficiency gains in its silicon, display, and radio systems rather than a larger cell alone.

How the iPhone 2025 lineup compares (mAh)

  • iPhone 17: 3,692 mAh
  • iPhone Air: 3,149 mAh
  • iPhone 17 Pro: 4,252 mAh
  • iPhone 17 Pro Max: 5,088 mAh

For additional context, the iPhone 16 series shipped with: 3,561 mAh (16), 4,674 mAh (16 Plus), 3,582 mAh (16 Pro), and 4,685 mAh (16 Pro Max).

What Apple claims for real‑world runtime

Despite the slim chassis, Apple rates iPhone Air for up to 27 hours of video playback and supports fast charging to 50% in about 30 minutes with a compatible power adapter. On heavy days, the iPhone Air MagSafe Battery accessory is designed to extend runtime up to 40 hours of video playback when attached.

Why mAh isn’t the whole story

Capacity is only one part of battery life. Several design choices in iPhone Air reduce power draw without changing how you use the device:

  • Apple silicon efficiency: The A19 Pro chip uses a new CPU and GPU architecture tuned for higher performance per watt, and adds per‑core Neural Accelerators that process on‑device intelligence more efficiently.
  • Network and modem optimizations: The N1 wireless chip brings Wi‑Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread with improved reliability and power characteristics. The C1X cellular modem is designed to deliver higher throughput while using less energy overall than prior generations.
  • Adaptive display: The 6.5‑inch Super Retina XDR display supports ProMotion up to 120 Hz and can drop to 1 Hz for static content and the Always‑On display, cutting unnecessary refresh overhead.
  • Software power management: iOS 26 introduces Adaptive Power Mode, which learns typical usage and automatically conserves energy when it predicts you might run low.
  • Internal architecture: Components are consolidated on a precision‑milled “plateau,” reserving more internal volume for the battery while keeping weight and thickness down.

Note: Apple’s playback ratings are measured under controlled conditions; actual battery life varies with settings, signal quality, ambient temperature, and workload (gaming, camera use, navigation, and high‑brightness outdoor use draw more power).

Charging and accessories

  • Fast charge: Up to 50% in ~30 minutes with a compatible USB‑C power adapter and cable.
  • MagSafe Battery for Air: A thin, model‑specific pack that attaches magnetically and is tuned to maximize longevity when left connected, or to top up quickly when low.
  • Qi2 and wired options: iPhone Air supports Qi2 magnetic charging and USB‑C wired charging; Apple also offers new USB‑C power adapters and Qi2 chargers that match the device’s power profile.

Regional notes and eSIM

iPhone Air uses an eSIM‑only design globally. Because there’s no physical SIM tray, its internal layout is uniform across regions, and the listed capacity applies worldwide.

Practical ways to maximize daily runtime

  • Enable iOS 26’s Adaptive Power Mode and use Low Power Mode when needed.
  • Let the display’s adaptive refresh work for you; avoid forcing constant high brightness outdoors unless necessary.
  • Use Wi‑Fi where available, especially in areas with weak cellular signal, which can increase modem power draw.
  • Keep background app activity appropriate for your needs (location, refresh, and notifications can add up).

Battery health over the long term

To slow capacity aging, keep iPhone within recommended temperatures, avoid frequent deep discharges, and leave Optimized Battery Charging on so the phone finishes charging closer to when you typically unplug.

Key takeaways

  • iPhone Air’s battery is 3,149 mAh, smaller than iPhone 17 and Pro models but paired with a platform engineered for lower power draw.
  • Apple rates it for up to 27 hours of video playback, with an optional MagSafe Battery designed to reach up to 40 hours on days you need it.
  • Efficiency in the A19 Pro, the N1 wireless chip, the C1X modem, an adaptive LTPO display, and iOS 26 power features are the main reasons the phone maintains “all‑day” life at 5.6 mm thick.