A thinner, more expensive iPhone may be joining Apple's lineup
Apple plans a thinner, pricier iPhone 17 to replace the Plus model, possibly debuting in 2025.
Apple is currently working on a new iPhone model that will be notably thinner and more expensive than the current top models, aimed for release in 2025. This model, part of the iPhone 17 lineup, might replace the existing Plus model, which has not met Apple’s expectations. The new design is reported to incorporate significant aesthetic changes reminiscent of the leap seen with iPhone X, proposing adjustments such as a smaller front camera cutout and a newly positioned rear camera array. The phone’s chassis may be constructed from aluminum, and it could boast a screen size between traditional models and the larger Pro Max variety.
The upcoming iPhone 17 is expected to be pricier than the iPhone Pro Max, currently the most expensive model in Apple's portfolio starting at $1,200. The design modifications in the iPhone 17 are also said to include drastic changes to camera placements and potentially the introduction of new technology features like advanced facial recognition capabilities. While exact dimensions on thinness are yet to be disclosed, this development follows the trend set by the recently launched super-thin iPad Pro models.
Meanwhile, the iPhone 16 is slated for release in about five months, focusing heavily on enhancing AI capabilities with minor physical design changes from the iPhone 15. Notably, there might be a new flagship model called the iPhone Ultra, which would sit above the Pro Max in terms of features and price. Also, changes like switching from physical to capacitive buttons and incorporating innovative touch technologies are rumored, suggesting further evolution in Apple’s smartphone design approach ahead of the iPhone 17’s release.