New leaks suggest that Apple is indeed opting for a back made of a combination of aluminum and glass for the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max. A well-known leaker has released dummy models that could confirm this design change. Particularly striking is the distribution of materials and the redesigned camera unit.
The back of iPhones has undergone several changes in recent years. While previous models relied on aluminum, Apple introduced glass backs with the iPhone 8 to enable wireless charging. Now, Apple appears to be taking a new direction with the iPhone 17. The top part of the back will be made of aluminum, while the bottom half will be made of glass. This design decision could have both aesthetic and functional reasons.
The new design of the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max
Aluminum instead of titanium?
Previous reports suggested that Apple might forgo titanium. Now, there are increasing indications that aluminum will be used instead for the upper back of the Pro models. Whether this is a final decision or a misunderstanding in the interpretation of the leaks remains to be seen. Aluminum could be a more cost-effective alternative to titanium and potentially offer advantages in terms of weight and build quality.
Larger rectangular camera bump
One notable change concerns the camera area. Instead of a conventional 3D glass camera unit, the new Pro models are expected to feature a larger, rectangular aluminum camera bump. This could improve camera stability and optimize heat dissipation. It remains to be seen whether Apple will stick with the familiar camera lens arrangement or plan further changes.
Wireless charging remains
The decision to make the lower part of the back out of glass is likely due to Apple's desire to continue offering wireless charging and MagSafe support. Metal would interfere with wireless charging, so a glass surface in this area remains necessary. This hybrid construction could allow Apple to optimally combine design and functionality (via X).
New markings on dummy models
Well-known leaker Sonny Dickson has published photos of dummy models featuring new markings. In addition to the position of the MagSafe charger, rounded rectangles can also be seen below the camera area. These could indicate which areas are made of glass and which are made of metal. The dummies seem to confirm previous rumors about the material update.
iPhone 17 Air with new design?
In addition to the Pro models, further details about the iPhone 17 Air have also surfaced. A case with a noticeably large cutout for the camera unit suggests that this model could also have an interesting back. Whether Apple plans to use a similar material combination as in the Pro models remains unclear.
iPhone 17 Pro: New leaks point to revised casing
The latest leaks provide clear clues about the design of the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max. The combination of aluminum and glass could offer both functional and aesthetic advantages. The larger, rectangular metal camera area could provide a more stable construction, while the glass bottom still allows for wireless charging. Whether Apple will actually abandon titanium entirely or whether this is a misunderstanding remains to be seen. Further leaks could provide more clarity in the coming months. (Photo by Unsplash / Yuheng Ouyang)
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