Apple and Samsung Ditch Titanium for iPhone 17 Amid Trade War Fears with China

President-elect Donald Trump plans to impose tariffs on China as soon as he takes office. In response, China may implement its own measures, leading to a potential trade war. Companies like Apple and Samsung are reconsidering decisions in light of these developments.

Recent reports indicate that the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max will stop using titanium frames. This change comes two years after Apple introduced the material with the iPhone 15 Pro. The shift is possibly influenced by Trump’s return to the White House, affecting both Apple and Samsung.

China is the largest producer of titanium. If tensions rise, the cost of titanium could increase, adding to its already higher price compared to stainless steel and aluminum. Besides cost factors, titanium does not offer a significant weight advantage. The iPhone 15 Pro is only 9% lighter than the iPhone 14 Pro.

Current trends show smartphone manufacturers prioritizing lighter devices. As a result, Apple may revert to aluminum for the iPhone 17, akin to its non-Pro models, instead of choosing stainless steel, which is heavier. However, stainless steel is more durable than aluminum, raising questions about whether focusing on weight is the right choice.

Additionally, there are concerns that titanium may contribute to overheating in iPhones. Although complaints about overheating decreased with the iPhone 16 Pro, they still persist, suggesting titanium might not be ideal.