Letting an iPhone battery drain completely is usually nothing out of the ordinary, but some owners of newer models are finding that this routine can lead to an unexpected problem.

Reports have been appearing across online forums, with users claiming that certain iPhone 17 devices and the recently released iPhone Air fail to restart after shutting down due to an empty battery. When plugged into a standard cable charger, the phones sometimes show no immediate response.

The issue does not appear to be limited to a single version. Complaints have surfaced from owners of the iPhone 17, 17 Pro, 17 Pro Max and the iPhone Air, suggesting a broader concern rather than isolated faults.

Early accounts described devices turning off at low battery levels and then remaining unresponsive when connected to power. Similar experiences have continued to be shared over time, indicating the problem may be affecting more than just a small number of units.

User experiences vary. Some people report that their phone eventually powers back on after being connected for around 10 to 15 minutes, while others say it can take much longer. In more severe cases, devices appear completely unresponsive when using a wired charger.

Interestingly, wireless charging has emerged as a more reliable option for some. Several users claim their phones respond when placed on a MagSafe charger, although even this method can require patience before any signs of life appear. Anecdotal reports suggest that retail staff have also seen similar behaviour.

The underlying cause remains uncertain. Possible explanations include a software glitch, an issue with how the device recognises a wired power source, or a problem related to battery calibration. Apple has not yet commented publicly on the reports.

For now, users encountering the issue may find that switching to wireless charging offers a better chance of reviving their device, though it may not provide an immediate fix.