TECNO to launch ultra-thin mobile for those who can’t afford iPhone 17 Air

TECNO is preparing to unveil the world’s slimmest curved 5G smartphone in India and is likely to challenge Apple with premium pricing around Rs. 80,000.

TECNO is preparing to launch what it claims to be the world’s slimmest curved 5G smartphone in India, aiming to release it before the much-anticipated iPhone 17 Air. Industry reports suggest the device could carry a price tag of around Rs. 80,000, positioning it in direct competition with premium models from Apple and Samsung.

TECNO is reportedly set to launch the world’s slimmest curved 5G phone in India before the iPhone 17 Air.

By MD Ijaj Khan

Ijaj Khan is a technology journalist and Senior Content Producer at Hindustan Times, with over three years of experience covering the consumer technology industry. His work spans smartphones, laptops, wearables, gaming, appliances and AI - from hands-on reviews, comparison and buying guides to breaking news and in-depth features that help readers cut through the noise and make informed decisions. Before joining HT Tech, he worked with Jagran New Media, where he sharpened his instincts for fast-paced digital reporting. He holds a Post Graduate Diploma in English Journalism and Mass Communication from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), Delhi. Whether he's testing the latest flagship smartphone, tracking a major AI announcement, or putting a gaming laptop through its paces, Ijaj approaches every story with the same goal - making technology feel relevant and easy to understand for everyday users, not just enthusiasts. When he's not in front of a screen for work, he's usually travelling to a new city, hunting for great food, or keeping tabs on what's next in tech before everyone else catches on.

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Earlier this year, Samsung brought the Galaxy S25 Edge with a 5.8mm profile into the market. TECNO had already shown a concept model during the MWC 2025, tentatively called the Spark Slim, which measures just 5.75mm. That prototype sparked interest at international tech showcases, and now the brand is gearing up to turn the idea into a commercial product.

What to expect from the device

Though TECNO has not confirmed the official name or complete specifications, the upcoming smartphone is expected to follow the blueprint of the prototype presented at Mobile World Congress 2025. The concept featured a 6.78-inch curved AMOLED display with 1.5K resolution, 144Hz refresh rate, and a brightness peak of 4500 nits. Despite the slim design, the company included a 5200mAh battery..

The camera is expected to have a dual 50MP setup at the rear, paired with a 13MP front-facing lens. Build materials are likely to include stainless steel and recycled aluminium, reflecting a mix of durability and sustainable design choices. While TECNO has kept details about the processor under wraps, analysts believe the phone will need flagship-level performance to justify its price range.

Expected Price

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge currently retails at Rs. 1,09,999, while the iPhone 17 Air is expected to debut at around $900 (roughly Rs. 78,700). By targeting a similar price bracket, TECNO is signalling a shift in strategy, attempting to establish itself as a serious contender among high-end smartphones.