On September 9, 2025, Apple CEO Tim Cook unveiled the iPhone Air, instantly grabbing global attention. With a sleek 5.64 mm frame (excluding the camera bump), the iPhone Air became Apple’s slimmest phone yet — and one of the slimmest smartphones in the world. While Apple did make some compromises to achieve this feat, the design has been celebrated as a breakthrough in mobile engineering.
Forgotten History: An Indian Phone Was Slimmer
But what many have overlooked is that nearly a decade earlier, an Indian smartphone brand had already accomplished something even more impressive. In 2015, Micromax launched the Canvas Sliver 5, a phone that was just 5.1 mm slim — thinner than the iPhone Air. At the time, it was celebrated as the world’s thinnest smartphone.
Star Power: Hugh Jackman as Brand Ambassador
Micromax didn’t just rely on specs to make headlines. The company roped in Hollywood superstar Hugh Jackman (Wolverine) as its brand ambassador, giving the Canvas Sliver 5 a bold international image. The phone was positioned as a premium lifestyle product that could stand toe-to-toe with offerings from the biggest global tech giants.
A Bold Step in 2015
Back then, the Canvas Sliver 5 was seen as a daring move by an Indian manufacturer. With its ultra-slim design and stylish look, it brought India into the global smartphone spotlight. While Micromax eventually lost momentum in the competitive smartphone race, the Sliver 5 remains a reminder of when an Indian brand beat global giants in the race for slimness.