Technological hurdles are forcing Apple to once again delay reduce the thickness of future iPhones.
After introducing the slim iPad Pro version last May, it was reported that Apple was also working on a solution for a slim iPhone version that was expected to launch in 2025 along with other Apple devices. However, it seems that the company's plans may have hit a snag.
A recent post from analyst Ming-Chi Kuo on social media X indicates that Apple has once again delayed its plans to use plastic clad copper (RCC) components as a material for its future iPhone versions.
Apple faces obstacles that make it difficult for the super-thin iPhone 17 to become a reality - 1
Using RCC components help will reduce the thickness of internal components, thereby freeing up more internal space for the iPhone design.
Apple could then choose to make the iPhone thinner or find another way to use that extra space. Maybe a bigger battery. The material also makes drilling easier because it doesn't contain fiberglass.
It seems that concerns about the durability and vulnerability of components are behind Apple's decision. In a post on X, Ming-Chi Kuo stated: "Because it cannot meet Apple's strict product quality requirements, the 2025 iPhone 17 model will not use RCC as the PCB material."
It was initially rumored that the technology would be used on the iPhone 16, but it was later delayed for the iPhone 17. Another delay means Apple users may have to wait longer for the design for a slim iPhone model to appear.
Ming-Chi Kuo's report doesn't detail whether Apple plans to use RCC materials for the iPhone 18 in 2026 or if we're looking at a longer-term delay.
iPhone 17 Slim could be the most expensive iPhone ever. This "super product" will need more advanced features along with an ultra-thin design.
Many recent rumors have mentioned the ultra-thin iPhone - iPhone 17 Slim. It is expected that this high-end smartphone will appear in 2025.
Notably, according to The Information, iPhone 17 Slim "will cost more than iPhone 17 Pro Max", possibly becoming the most expensive iPhone model in history.
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What will iPhone 17 Slim bring?
According to a report by The Information and a statement from famous analyst Jeff Pu of Haitong International Securities, the iPhone 17 Slim will be thinner than current iPhone models (ranging from 7.8 - 8.25mm in thickness). Currently, it is unclear how thin the iPhone 17 Slim will be.
Concept photo of iPhone 17 Slim.
Concept photo of iPhone 17 Slim.
According to predictions, iPhone 17 Slim will replace iPhone 17 Plus in the iPhone line. This year, the iPhone 16 Plus will still be released, succeeding the iPhone 15 Plus.
Jeff Pu's report claims that the iPhone 17 Slim will have a 6.6-inch screen while The Information's source said that the device's screen will range in size from 6.1 - 6.6 inches.
The new phone will run on the A19 chip (the iPhone 16 series will use the A18 silicon chip). The Information also said that the device will have an "aluminum frame and smaller Dynamic Island details".
Notably, The Information claims, this phone will cost more than the current iPhone 15 Pro Max. This is quite contradictory as iFan will have to pay more for an iPhone with an aluminum frame and a smaller screen.
Ultra-thin iPhone 17 Slim or iPhone 17 Ultra?
Previously, in 2022, rumors mentioned the iPhone Ultra again. This is expected to be the pinnacle device, similar to how the Apple Watch Ultra offers the best features of the Apple Watch smartwatch.
