Apple is preparing major design modifications for the 2025 release of its next-generation iPhone 17 series. According to a Forbes story that cited The Information, the iPhone 17 lineup may debut a new design language that replaces the Plus model with a sleeker “Air” model and a dual-material back panel.
iPhone 17: Anticipated design updates
In contrast to the titanium frames now seen in Pro versions, the iPhone 17 series—which includes the basic iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max—is anticipated to have aluminium frames.
Back panel: To allow wireless charging, the Pro models may have a dual-finish design with glass on the bottom half and aluminium on the top half.
Camera module: The squarish 3D glass module found in contemporary iPhones is anticipated to be replaced by a rectangular metal camera bump.
These modifications represent a substantial shift from Apple’s current iPhone design ethos. The switch to aluminium frames and the addition of a dual-material back panel may represent a redesign of the iPhone series that aims to improve appearance without sacrificing use.
iPhone 17 Air: What to expect
With a thickness of 5 to 6 mm, the iPhone 17 Air is expected to be a more streamlined version of the Plus model. However, the following hardware capabilities may need to be sacrificed for this small design.
Audio and battery: To create a thin frame, use a single speaker and a smaller battery.
Camera: One rear-facing camera without a telephoto lens.
5G modem: Compared to Qualcomm’s current modems, Apple’s own 5G modem is anticipated to have lower peak speeds and lesser dependability. It might not support mmWave 5G technology, which was first launched with the iPhone 12.
SIM slot: To further contribute to the slim design, physical SIM slots may be completely eliminated.
The iPhone 17 Air model’s compromises imply that Apple may put form over feature density for this particular model.
