September could bring a surprising shift in Apple’s iPhone design strategy. Recent reports suggest the iPhone 17 Pro models may ditch the premium materials—stainless steel and titanium—used on high-end iPhones since the iPhone X in 2017, opting for a more familiar aluminum frame.
A Return to Aluminum?
Could Apple be simplifying its iPhone build, and what does it mean for the Pro models?
What’s the big deal with aluminum? It’s lighter and generally less expensive than stainless steel or titanium, potentially impacting the iPhone 17 Pro’s weight and cost.
The rumor originated with a post on the Chinese social media platform Weibo from an account called Instant Digital. According to Instant Digital, the iPhone 17 Pro will feature an aluminum frame combined with a glass section on the back to maintain compatibility with MagSafe and Qi wireless charging. This part-aluminum, part-glass design had been previously speculated.
A Shift in Materials
Apple has consistently used aluminum for the frames of its standard iPhone models, including the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus. The iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max, however, continue to utilize titanium. A return to aluminum for the “Pro” line would represent a significant departure from recent trends.
While aluminum offers weight savings and cost benefits, Apple’s reasoning behind the potential change remains unclear. The company has not commented on the speculation.
- The iPhone 17 Pro may switch from stainless steel/titanium to an aluminum frame.
- The change could lower the phone’s weight and potentially its price.
- A glass back is expected to preserve wireless charging functionality.
- The rumor originated from a generally reliable source on Weibo.
Instant Digital boasts over 1.4 million followers on Weibo and has a track record of accurately predicting Apple product details. Past correct predictions include the Yellow finish for the iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus, and the Titanium Milanese Loop for the Apple Watch Ultra 2. However, it’s important to note that even reliable sources aren’t always correct.
Apple is expected to officially unveil the iPhone 17 series in September.
