Rumors are circulating that Apple might eliminate its “Plus” iPhone models starting with the iPhone 17, replacing them with a more premium offering. Historically, the “Plus” models have struggled to capture consumer interest as standard and Pro models have grown in capability.
The latest leaks suggest that Apple is planning to introduce a new “Slim” iPhone, which could transform the future of its product lineup and generate significant excitement among tech enthusiasts.
The iPhone 17 Slim could potentially echo the memorable moment when Steve Jobs revealed the MacBook Air by pulling it from a manila envelope. If the rumors are accurate, the iPhone 17 Slim might offer a similarly groundbreaking design and performance update. This new model is expected to push the boundaries of smartphone design, setting new standards in the industry.
According to recent leaks from Weibo, the iPhone 17 series is likely to forego the Plus model in favor of the iPhone 17 Slim. This model is anticipated to be the most premium option in the lineup, akin to the Apple Watch Ultra, and will draw design inspiration from the ultra-thin iPad Pro M4. The iPhone 17 Slim is rumored to be significantly thinner than previous models and other variants in the series.
The iPhone 17 Slim is expected to feature an LTPO display with a 120Hz refresh rate, a feature currently exclusive to Pro models. This means that every iPhone 17 model, from the base to the Pro Max, will offer ProMotion technology.
The device is also predicted to be powered by Apple’s new A19 and A19 Pro processors, with the Slim model potentially featuring the A19 Pro and starting at $1,299, surpassing the current iPhone 15 Pro Max in both price and performance.
Apple’s push towards thinner designs extends beyond the iPhone, with rumors suggesting that future MacBooks and Apple Watches will also adopt slimmer profiles. While this ambition presents challenges, particularly regarding battery life and durability, advancements in processor efficiency, like those expected with the M4 and M5 chips, may help mitigate these issues.
As the tech industry trends toward sleek, flat-edged designs, the iPhone 17 Slim’s ultra-thin profile could set a new benchmark for both aesthetics and functionality, appealing to users seeking cutting-edge technology and design.