We can expect three changes in the iPhone 17 shell.

Two reports indicate that we may see changes in the materials used by Apple in at least some iPhone 17 models' shells.

The latest concerns are about how the phone's sides will merge with the back shell and a promise of a smoother transition.

We have already heard two previous reports about Apple's plans to change the materials used in iPhone 17 — the frame and the back.

Switching from a titanium alloy frame to an aluminum frame

A report at the end of last year suggested that Apple would replace the titanium alloy frames used in its Pro series with aluminum alloy material used in standard models.

Other iPhone models next year will also experience significant design changes. Someone revealed that they will all switch from stainless steel and titanium to an aluminum frame.

However, we notice that this may not mean what The Information magazine means by it.

Firstly, it's worth noting that the news uses some potentially ambiguous language. "Frame" is said to be made of aluminum in the article, but Apple already refers to its display bezel as titanium alloy and describes its internal aluminum structure as a "frame" or "substructure."

Design with an aluminum back panel and glass front panel

The current iPhone has a glass back to support wireless charging. The same report states that this will change, and Apple will use larger aluminum materials for the camera module on top and glass on the bottom.

The Pro and Pro Max models' backs will feature a design with an aluminum frame and glass panels. The top of the back will consist of a large rectangular camera protrusion made of aluminum instead of traditional 3D glass. The bottom will continue to be made of glass for wireless charging, according to two people.

Smooth sides and rear transitions

A new report today indicates that Apple plans to use a new method to connect the back shell with the sides of the phone, resulting in a smoother transition. Fixed-focus digital on Weibo claims this is the case.

The adhesive material used for iPhone models has been publicly disclosed before... The key lies in the connection area between the body shell and the rear cover being a slope rather than a step.

While the automatic translation from Chinese to English sounds somewhat stiff, the post seems to be referring to a more seamless connection. Although the current connection may not be particularly noticeable visually, this could make the new model more comfortable to hold.

Apple and Jeremy Bishop on Unsplash