As Apple gears up to launch its highly anticipated iPhone 17 series later this year, a new report suggests a notable shift in design strategy. While last year’s iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max models embraced the ultra-durable titanium frame, the upcoming iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max may take a step in a different direction by adopting aluminium instead. Surprisingly, the new iPhone 17 Air is expected to be the only model in the lineup to feature a titanium frame.
According to a report sourced from analyst Jeff Pu of GF Securities and shared by MacRumors, Apple seems to be rethinking its materials game. The iPhone 17 Air, set to replace the iPhone 16 Plus, is shaping up to be the slimmest iPhone ever. The titanium frame is likely a critical design choice to help maintain structural integrity while keeping the device ultra-thin. Titanium’s durability and resistance to bending make it ideal for a slimmer body, even if it adds a touch of weight compared to aluminium.
The move to give the titanium build exclusively to the iPhone 17 Air flips Apple’s usual design approach. Traditionally, the Pro models are where Apple pushes its premium hardware upgrades. But this time, it seems the company is placing a strong bet on the all-new Air variant to stand out not just in design but also in appeal.
In contrast, the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max are now tipped to come with aluminium frames. While aluminium is lighter and more cost-effective than titanium, it may lack the same premium feel that defined the iPhone 16 Pro line. This shift could be a sign of Apple recalibrating its priorities for design, weight distribution, and cost across the different tiers of the iPhone 17 lineup.
Beyond the frame materials, more details are emerging about the iPhone 17 series. Each model is expected to bring its own design tweaks and display sizes. The iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro are both rumoured to feature 6.3-inch screens, while the iPhone 17 Air is said to pack a slightly larger 6.5-inch display in a remarkably slim chassis. The Pro Max variant could go all the way up to 6.9 inches, continuing its reign as the largest iPhone ever.
Under the hood, the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Air are likely to run on the standard A19 chip, supported by 8GB of RAM. The Pro models are expected to feature the more powerful A19 Pro chip, with 12GB of RAM for smoother multitasking and performance boosts across apps, gaming, and camera usage.
Color options are still under wraps, but early leaks hint that the iPhone 17 Air may launch in four elegant finishes, possibly complementing its slim and premium titanium frame. The official launch window is expected between September 8 and 12, consistent with Apple’s traditional fall release timeline.
If these leaks hold true, Apple’s iPhone 17 series could mark a subtle yet significant shift in design philosophy. With the Air model taking center stage in terms of premium materials and aesthetics, Apple seems to be diversifying its lineup not just by size or performance, but by build quality and design innovation.
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