While we eagerly await the iPhone 16, rumors are already circulating about the iPhone 17 lineup set to launch in 2025. While the iPhone 16 series promises some exciting changes, it seems the most significant upgrades might be reserved for 2025. One of the most intriguing rumors involves the potential demise of the iPhone Plus model. Apple is reportedly planning to drop the iPhone Plus due to underwhelming sales, potentially replacing it with a new “Slim” iPhone. This new iPhone 17 Slim could be positioned as the top-tier model, commanding an even higher price tag than the Pro Max, despite potentially less powerful specs. This could make the iPhone 17 Slim one of Apple’s most unconventional iPhones yet.
The iPhone 17 Slim is rumored to draw inspiration from the latest iPad Pro models, touted as the “thinnest tablets ever.” With a reported thickness of 0.2 inches (5.1mm), the iPhone 17 Slim could be even thinner than the current iPad Pro. However, the device’s specs present a curious mix. The iPhone 17 Slim might feature a 6.65-inch display, slotting in between the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max. The rumored A19 chip with 8GB RAM positions the Slim slightly below the “Pro” variants in processing power. Further reports suggest the use of less titanium compared to the Pro models, along with either a single or dual camera system. While the details are still fragmented, with the iPhone 17 line over a year away, things can certainly change.
The concept of an iPhone 17 Slim raises more questions than answers. At a premium price point above the Pro Max, the focus appears to be on form over function. While Apple has always prioritized design, this approach might leave some consumers wondering who asked for this. Apple’s last attempt at a super-thin iPhone, the iPhone 6, resulted in the infamous “bend gate.” Despite potential improvements in structural integrity with titanium, a thin design could pose new challenges. One major concern is the potential impact on battery life. The thinner design could severely limit battery capacity, potentially requiring mid-day charges. For a phone rumored to start at $1,299, this could be a major drawback. Additionally, the possibility of a single or dual camera system on the supposed “top tier” model seems questionable. Considering the evolution of iPhone cameras from a single 2MP sensor to a powerful triple-lens system, reducing the camera setup could be a significant step back, especially at a higher price point.
While a thinner iPhone might seem appealing on paper, it’s hard to overlook the potential drawbacks. The trade-offs in battery life and camera capabilities, coupled with the premium price, raise questions about the target audience and its overall appeal. As of now, the rumors surrounding the iPhone 17 Slim should be taken with a grain of salt, as much can change before its potential release. However, if the iPhone 17 Slim does come to fruition, it could be Apple’s most unconventional and polarizing iPhone yet.
