A new era in iPhone 17 smartphone design: smooth material transitions

According to fresh leaks from Chinese insider Fixed Focus Digital, the design of the next-generation iPhone 17 will feature a smoother transition between the edges of the case and the back panel. Apple is allegedly developing a new technology for “gluing” glass and metal elements.

What you should know

According to an insider, Apple is introducing a “revolution in the manufacturing process”:

• The main idea: instead of a sharp junction between the case and the back panel, a sloping surface will appear.
• iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max: a return to an aluminum frame is expected, while previously there were rumors about titanium frame in the new models. Moreover, the “half” of the back panel (the upper part) will also be made of aluminum, while the “lower” half will retain glass for wireless charging.

Sources indicate that Apple plans to change the shape and materials of the camera module in the Pro versions. Instead of glass, aluminum is used, and the “rectangular” protrusion under the lenses may be replaced by an elongated “oval” block.

• Regular iPhone 17: there is little information about the design of the younger models yet.
• iPhone 17 Air: perhaps the company will remove the Plus version, replacing it with a new “thin” model with the slogan “Air”.

If Apple does not break its usual schedule, the iPhone 17 line will be presented in September. In the coming months, as usual, we should expect new leaks, drawings and renders that will shed more light on the appearance and features of the upcoming devices.

Last week, the same source Fixed Focus Digital claimed that the fourth-generation iPhone SE will be designated “iPhone 16E” – this corresponds to rumors from other insiders.

So, Apple seems to continue experimenting with materials and seeks to make the case more solid in appearance and more tactile, while maintaining (or even expanding) functionality such as wireless charging. Whether the rejection of titanium in favor of aluminum will remain only for the Pro versions, or the company is preparing some more surprises, will become clearer by the fall.