Apple is anticipated to unveil the iPhone 16 series this September. Interestingly, discussions about its successor have already surfaced. Rumors suggest that Apple will replace the ‘Plus’ model with a ‘Slim’ version in the forthcoming iPhone 17 series.
Reducing the Gap Between Non-Pro and Pro Models
Reports indicate that Apple is introducing some ‘bold innovations’ in the design of the iPhone 17 Slim. This new model is expected to be thinner and lighter than its predecessors, utilizing aluminum for its chassis. The camera island is said to be horizontally aligned, reminiscent of the Pixel 8 series' design. However, with Apple recently reverting to vertical camera placement to support Spatial Video, it remains uncertain if this feature will work with a horizontal layout.
On the front, the device will feature a narrower Dynamic Island, potentially due to the adoption of a more compact “metalens” for the Face ID sensor. The design of the iPhone 17 Slim is reportedly similar to that of the iPhone X.
Display and Refresh Rate Enhancements
The ‘Slim’ model will boast a 6.55-inch screen, aiming to bridge the gap between the non-Pro and Pro versions. For context, the iPhone 15 Plus has a 6.7-inch display. Furthermore, the iPhone 17 Slim will support a 120Hz high refresh rate, marking the first time a non-Pro iPhone model will feature such a refresh rate. It’s also likely that the base model of the iPhone 17 series will come with a 120Hz refresh rate.
While these models will offer higher refresh rates, they will also be adaptive like the Pro models. This means the phone will automatically adjust the refresh rate based on the content being displayed on the screen.