Apple is developing a 'significantly thinner' version of iPhone: Report
Apple is developing a 'significantly thinner' iPhone, as per The Information. This new model could potentially replace the Plus model in the iPhone 17 lineup. The design transformation is being compared to that witnessed with the introduction of the iPhone X. Although not finalized, possible features include an aluminum chassis and an upgraded front-facing camera, housed alongside Face ID sensors in a smaller pill-shaped cutout.
Potential changes in camera and screen size
The new iPhone model may also see the rear camera array relocated to the center of the handset, reducing accidental lens covering. The screen size for this thinner iPhone is expected to fall between that of the current base iPhone and the iPhone Pro Max, ranging from 6.12 to 6.69-inch. Despite its slimmed-down design, this model could potentially cost more than the $1,200 starting price of the iPhone Pro Max.
Possible end of Plus format
The Information's report suggests that the introduction of this new model could mark the end of the Plus format in Apple's lineup due to underwhelming sales performance. Meanwhile, Apple's focus for this year's iPhones, the iPhone 16 series, is said to be more on AI advancements than major physical design changes. Reuters says that the slimmer version, code-named D23, is likely to launch by 2025.
Apple's competition and future plans
Apple's move to develop a thinner iPhone comes amid stiff competition from brands like HONOR, Huawei, and Samsung Electronics. In Q1 2024, Samsung had a larger share of the smartphone market than Apple with 20.8% compared to Apple's 17.3%, as per International Data Corporation (IDC). Additionally, Apple wants to launch a cheaper iPhone, a successor to its iPhone SE, in the spring of 2025.
