The rumor mill is churning with whispers about the iPhone 17, from display upgrades and a new Wi-Fi chip to the possibility of an iPhone Air. Recent leaks suggest a significant redesign across the entire iPhone 17 lineup, with the Pro model potentially receiving its most substantial update in years. Surprisingly, this update might involve a downgrade.
While titanium has been a central marketing focus for Apple’s Pro iPhones recently, reports indicate the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max could revert to aluminum frames, according to The Information. This shift would also introduce an aluminum camera bump, replacing the glass bump seen on premium iPhones since the iPhone 7 Plus in 2016. Apple transitioned from stainless steel to titanium frames with the iPhone 15 Pro and 16 Pro, making this rumored change unexpected.
This potential move is surprising considering Apple’s emphasis on the premium feel of titanium in its Pro line marketing. While still a rumor, Apple abandoning titanium for aluminum is more jarring than any speculated upgrades. This change is especially unexpected as other manufacturers, like Samsung with the rumored titanium Galaxy S25 Ultra, seem to be embracing titanium.
The Apple iPhone 16 Pro MaxApple iPhone 16 Pro Max. Image: Andy Boxall / MaagX
Titanium has become a standard for high-end devices, making Apple’s potential reversal puzzling. Aluminum can interfere with wireless charging, which might explain why Apple is reportedly retaining a partial glass back.
While the source of this information, though reputable, is unofficial, the reasons behind Apple’s potential return to aluminum remain unclear. Factors like rising titanium costs, economic uncertainty, and potential tariffs could be influencing this decision. With Apple’s increased focus on AI, cost-cutting measures might allow the company to prioritize internal silicon development over the external chassis, which many users cover with a case anyway.
This rumored shift raises questions about the future direction of Apple’s Pro line. Will this change impact the perceived premium value of the iPhone 17 Pro? Only time will tell.
