Conflicting reports have emerged regarding the material of the upcoming iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max. While previous leaks suggested a hybrid aluminum and glass back plate, a new claim insists that Apple will stick with the titanium frame.
Last month, Wayne Ma of The Information reported that Apple would revert to an aluminum finish for next year's flagship iPhones. However, leaker Instant Digital countered this on Weibo, stating that the iPhone 17 Pro models will retain their titanium frames and calling the aluminum switch "impossible."
"Why would anyone believe it would switch to aluminum?...Looking back at recent iPhone models, Apple has consistently emphasized the premium frame materials...If they switched to aluminum, how could they even market it?" - Instant Digital
Apple introduced the titanium frame with the iPhone 15 Pro models, after using stainless steel since the iPhone X in 2017. Given Apple's marketing emphasis on premium materials, a return to aluminum seems unlikely, according to Instant Digital.
However, the iPhone is due for a redesign, lending some weight to Wayne Ma's claims. He suggests a design with aluminum on the top portion of the back and glass on the lower portion for wireless charging. Since the iPhone 17 Pro launch is still months away, it's too early for definitive conclusions.
Instant Digital's track record is mixed, so this information should be treated with caution. Apple has the final word, and more details are expected closer to the launch, which will also reportedly include a new iPhone 17 Air model replacing the 'Plus' variant.
