Photo: Rajesh Pandey/Cult of Mac
Apple could make some big design changes to the iPhone 17 lineup next year. One such change would be the surprising decision to ditch the titanium frame for an aluminum one.
A report suggests that the Pro models will switch to an aluminum camera bump, replacing the current 3D glass design.
iPhone 17 Pro might say goodbye to titanium
Apple switched to a stainless steel frame with titanium edges with the iPhone 15 Pro in 2024. The company made a big deal about this transition, as titanium is harder to bend than aluminum. It is also more expensive than the latter, though it stands out for its density and durability.
Apple plans to make “significant design changes” with the iPhone 17 Pro series next year, reports The Information. The company will apparently return to using an aluminum frame, ditching the titanium and stainless steel chassis.
Since the iPhone 13 Pro in 2021, iPhone Pro models have used a stainless steel frame. Steel is more durable and premium than aluminum, so it is surprising to see the company move away from it after all these years.
On the positive side, the switch to aluminum should make the 2025 iPhones lighter.
New design for the rear camera housing?
The phone’s rear camera design will also supposedly undergo notable changes. Based on the report, the rear of the iPhone 17 Pro and Max will use a “part-aluminum, part-glass design.” The bottom half will use the glass panel to retain support for wireless charging.
The camera bump will seemingly switch to aluminum, abandoning the current 3D glass. It should also get a size bump to accommodate the bigger camera sensors.
If the report is accurate, Apple could make some big design changes to the iPhone 17 lineup next year. These changes should not affect the iPhone 17 Air, as it will likely follow a different design language due to its slim frame.
