The iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max will feature aluminum frames, so the iPhone 17 Air will be the only new model to use titanium.
Since the introduction of the iPhone X in 2017, all of Apple's highest-end iPhone models have used stainless steel or iPhone 17 titanium frames, so the return to aluminum for this year's iPhone 17 Pro models would be a notable change.
Why is only the iPhone 17 Air using titanium?
Rumors suggest that the iPhone 17 titanium frames will feature an ultra-thin design, possibly measuring between 5.5 and 6 mm in thickness. At such a thin frame, aluminum doesn't provide the strength and rigidity needed to prevent bending or internal damage.
However, titanium is:
- Stronger and harder than aluminum
- More impact-resistant
- Higher tensile strength and creep resistance
- More resilient and durable under pressure
This makes it an ideal material for creating slim yet structurally robust devices. The iPhone 17 Air titanium frame is expected to support its sleek design while still providing everyday durability.
iPhone 17 Pro: Aluminum Hybrid Design and New Camera Layout
Analysts suggest the iPhone 17 Pro will not feature an all-aluminum body, but rather a hybrid design. The frame and body will likely be a single piece, with a cutout on the back to insert a glass panel—primarily for wireless charging.
This design is more cost-effective than using all-titanium and will help improve antenna performance and charging efficiency.
Follow Lin Huitai for the latest news on the titanium-framed iPhone 17 Air.
