The iPhone 17 Pro’s frame material has been the subject of recent speculation, with conflicting reports suggesting both titanium and aluminum. Just last week, rumors circulated that Apple might switch to an aluminum frame for the Pro models, marking a departure from the titanium used in previous generations. However, a new leak challenges this claim, suggesting the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max will retain their premium titanium construction.
Weibo leaker Setsuna Digital questioned the plausibility of an aluminum frame, highlighting Apple’s consistent marketing of high-end materials for its Pro series. “Looking back at the iPhone in recent years, Apple has always focused on promoting the high-end frame materials of the Pro series as one of its selling points, from ‘surgical grade stainless steel’ to ‘titanium.’ How can it be said that it was replaced with aluminum?”
A white iPhone 16 sitting outside, face-down, surrounded by a bunch of leaves.
While Setsuna Digital’s assertion lacks specific sourcing, it raises a valid point. Apple has a history of emphasizing premium materials as a key differentiator for its Pro iPhones. However, it’s worth noting that Setsuna Digital’s track record with Apple leaks is mixed, with both accurate predictions and significant misses in the past. Therefore, this information should be treated as speculation.
Apple’s history does offer examples of both retaining and removing features. While the removal of the headphone jack is a prominent example of a discontinued feature, 3D Touch, introduced with the iPhone 6s, persisted until the iPhone 11. This timeframe mirrors the duration since aluminum was last used for the iPhone frame, leaving open the possibility of its return.
The iPhone 17 lineup is anticipated to launch in Fall 2025, potentially showcasing Apple Intelligence and other upgrades. A shift back to aluminum could represent a cost-saving measure for the new models. However, considering Apple’s emphasis on premium materials for its Pro line, the likelihood of a titanium frame remains a strong possibility.
