A new leak has provided the clearest look yet at what could be one of the biggest design changes for Apple’s flagship in years. The iPhone 17 Pro is rumored to feature an all-aluminum chassis, moving away from the titanium frame introduced with the iPhone 15 Pro and continued in the iPhone 16 Pro lineup. The leaked images, shared on yeux1122’s blog, show a single piece of milled aluminum that incorporates the camera bump directly into the frame, creating a more seamless appearance and potentially increasing durability.
The chassis design appears to have precise cutouts on the back, allowing for a glass insert that would support MagSafe and wireless charging. This hybrid aluminum-and-glass structure could help reduce weight while maintaining functionality and offering a new aesthetic. Aluminum’s lighter weight and superior thermal conductivity compared to titanium may also help the device run cooler under heavy use, particularly when handling demanding tasks powered by the next-generation A19 Pro chip.
Beyond material changes, the leak suggests some subtle but meaningful refinements to the iPhone’s layout. Antenna bands are positioned differently around the rear camera module, a change that could improve 5G reception, Wi-Fi 7 performance, and overall signal stability. These adjustments may also allow for more efficient use of internal space, opening room for a larger battery or enhanced cooling systems.
This design evolution aligns with ongoing reports that the iPhone 17 Pro series will bring a broader range of upgrades. Alongside the new chassis, Apple is expected to introduce an enhanced camera system, additional RAM for smoother multitasking, and potential battery life improvements. The redesigned camera layout hints at upgraded sensors and lenses, further cementing Apple’s focus on photography and videography performance.
With the official unveiling expected in September, the shift to aluminum could mark a deliberate balance between performance, weight, and durability. It would also signal Apple’s willingness to revisit material choices to better serve thermal efficiency and handling comfort. If accurate, the new design may set the tone for future iPhone generations, blending premium build quality with practical engineering benefits.
(via Naver)
