iPhone 17 Pro to Ditch Titanium for Aluminum, Base Model to Get 6.3-inch ProMotion Display [Report]

A new report from Bloomberg outlines what to expect from Apple's upcoming 'Awe dropping' special event on September 9, revealing key details about the iPhone lineup. Highlights include an all-new ultra-thin 'Air' model, a switch back to aluminum for the Pro models, and a ProMotion display for the base iPhone 17.

The report claims Apple will once again introduce four new models, but will replace the 'Plus' version with a new, ultra-thin 'iPhone 17 Air.' This device is said to measure around 5.5 millimeters, a significant reduction in thickness that has been showcased in recent hands-on videos with dummy units. The slim profile reportedly comes with a drop in battery life compared to the Pro models and a single rear camera in a pill-shaped bump. It will feature a 6.6-inch ProMotion display, the standard A19 processor, and will be eSIM-only. The Air model will also reportedly be the first iPhone to use Apple's in-house C1 modem and a custom Wi-Fi chip.

For the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max, the report points to a major redesign, the first since 2020. The back of the phones will feature a new camera area that spans the top third of the device, alongside a new cutout on the lower portion for wireless charging. In a notable reversal, Apple will reportedly switch back to an aluminum frame from titanium, a move said to improve heat dissipation and reduce weight. Other upgrades include the A19 Pro chip, significantly boosted battery life, and major camera enhancements, including a 48-megapixel telephoto lens, a new variable aperture system, and the biggest-ever upgrade to the selfie camera.


The standard iPhone 17 will not be redesigned but will see its screen size increase to 6.3 inches to match the Pro model, a change that has been previously rumored. In a first for a non-Pro iPhone, it will also gain a ProMotion display. The base model will use the standard A19 chip but will continue to use a modem from Qualcomm.

Apple is also preparing a new range of accessories, including a revamped case to replace its failed FineWoven material. The company is also said to be working on a Bumper-style case for the iPhone 17 Air and a high-end crossbody strap. Additionally, Bloomberg corroborates rumors of new color options, including a light blue for the Air model and a new orange finish for the Pro lineup.

The iPhone 17 lineup marks the start of a three-year design overhaul, with a foldable model expected in 2026 and a special 20th-anniversary iPhone in 2027.

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