iPhone 17 lineup: Aluminium frames for pro models, Titanium for ‘Air’ variant

Apple has continually evolved the materials used for its high-end iPhone frames, transitioning from aluminium to stainless steel, titanium, and back to aluminium. Innovation and sophistication perfectly define Apple, the American tech giant celebrated worldwide for its cutting-edge gadgets and electronics. 

Image Source: macworld.com

However, according to a recent investor note from GF Securities analyst Jeff Pu, obtained by MacRumors, Apple may revert to aluminium for most of its iPhone 17 line-up. Pu predicts that the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max will feature aluminium frames, while the rumoured iPhone 17 Air will stand out with a titanium frame.

This shift would mark a significant change for the Pro models, as both the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro feature titanium frames, making them lighter than the stainless steel-framed iPhone 14 Pro. According to Pu, Apple's decision to use aluminium for the iPhone 17 Pro models is driven by environmental considerations.

Aluminum generally has a lower carbon footprint than titanium, aligning with Apple's goal of achieving carbon neutrality across its products and supply chain by 2030. Following the precedent set by the Apple Watch and the latest Mac mini, some iPhone 17 models could be marketed as Apple's first carbon-neutral iPhones.

The reason behind the iPhone 17 Air featuring a titanium frame remains unclear, especially since aluminium is lighter and would better suit the device's thin and light design. However, there may be some insight into Apple's decision.

Last year, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggested that the iPhone 17 Air's frame would incorporate a blend of titanium and aluminium, with lower titanium content than the iPhone 15 Pro models. Apple likely has a strategic rationale for this choice, and with the iPhone 17 series expected to be unveiled in September, more details may emerge in the coming months.

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