Apple launched the iPhone 17 in Japan on Friday, adding a super-thin model, the iPhone Air, to its lineup.

About 30 people queued at an Apple store in Tokyo¡¯s Shibuya Ward to get their reserved new phones as soon as possible.

The iPhone Air is just 5.6 millimeters thick and features a titanium frame that makes its body strong. Its quality matches that of the high-end models in the series. Prices start at ?159,800.

The standard model is equipped with a refurbished front-side camera that utilizes artificial intelligence to recognize photographic subjects and adjust the frame, making it easier for users to take selfies. Prices start at ?129,800.

With Apple¡¯s latest A19 chip, the iPhone 17 series has improved photo and video processing capabilities and has better power efficiency.

¡°I¡¯m looking forward to using the new functions,¡± said a 39-year-old who bought an iPhone 17 Pro at the Shibuya store.

Bob Borchers, who is in charge of product marketing at Apple, said Japan is a very special market that understands the U.S. company¡¯s attention to detail.