There have been recent rumors saying that Apple might change from using titanium to aluminum for the frame of the next iPhone 17 Pro. But a person who shares inside information from China doubts this idea, pointing out that Apple has spent a lot of time promoting its high-quality materials. Since Samsung is already using titanium for its top Galaxy phones, it seems less likely that Apple would switch to aluminum, though it’s not impossible.

Current Material Landscape

Currently, both the Pro iPhones and the Ultra Galaxy models have frames made of titanium. Titanium has benefits like being lighter than stainless steel and more durable than aluminum. But it also has some downsides: titanium is more expensive, and its surface is more likely to get scratched, which limits the color choices for newer iPhone Pro models. Before using titanium, Apple used stainless steel, which gave a shiny look but made the devices heavier, like the iPhone 14 Pro Max, feel bulky.
Aluminum is the most affordable and lightest option, often used in regular iPhones and Galaxy devices. Even though it’s cheaper, aluminum is not as strong as titanium or stainless steel, so it can bend or scratch more easily.

Consumer Preferences

When choosing a new smartphone, think about what matters most to you in terms of materials. If you want something really strong, titanium or stainless steel are good choices. If you prefer a lighter phone, aluminum and titanium are both good options. On the other hand, if you care more about saving money and having bright colors, aluminum is the better choice.

As we approach the launch of new devices, we invite you to share your thoughts in our poll: What material do you prefer for your next smartphone?

• Titanium
• Aluminum
• Stainless Steel
• Other (please specify in comments)