India, Sept. 9 -- Apple has gone thinner than ever with its new iPhone Air, a handset that measures just 5.6mm. That is slimmer than most pens on your desk, yet it carries the kind of hardware Apple usually saves for its Pro line. Tim Cook called it "pro performance in a thin and light design," but beyond the numbers, this model signals Apple's shift toward bolder redesigns rather than tiny yearly changes.

One of the first things people will notice is not just the size, but the shades Apple chose this year. The iPhone Air comes in Space Black, Cloud White, Light Gold, and Sky Blue.

Space Black is the classic for those who prefer a stealth look. Cloud White leans crisp and minimal, while Light Gold feels almost jewelry-like. Sky Blue, me...