iPhone 17 Pro Battery Leak Reveals Regional Designs

 

A rumored steel-encased battery could improve heat dissipation, with different shapes planned for US and Chinese markets to accommodate SIM tray differences.

A new leak from tipster Majin Bu offers a potential first look at the iPhone 17 Pro's battery. The prototype reveals an L-shaped, steel-encased design aimed at improving heat dissipation and structural integrity. Expected to launch in late 2025, the new design also suggests Apple may create market-specific versions of the component, distinguishing between US and international models for the first time.

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According to claims made by the tipster in a recent blog post, the move to a steel enclosure offers several key advantages. The primary benefit is improved thermal management, as the metal casing would help dissipate heat more effectively than current designs. Additionally, the steel shell is said to add structural rigidity to the phone’s chassis and could be integrated with other components like the MagSafe charging coil.

Images shared by the tipster show two distinct battery variants. The version intended for China and other global markets features a narrower design with a more pronounced L-shaped cutout. This is reportedly to make space for a physical SIM card tray. In contrast, the US model, which is expected to remain eSIM-only, may feature a wider battery to maximize internal space.

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The design could also impact future repairs. The tipster claims Apple will use an electrically induced adhesive debonding technology, first rumored for the upcoming iPhone 16 series. This system allows the battery's adhesive to be easily loosened by passing a small electrical current through it, simplifying replacements for technicians.

This rumored change for the iPhone 17 Pro builds on developments expected in this year's iPhone 16 Pro, which is also rumored to feature a steel battery casing for better thermal performance. Apple has increasingly focused on thermal management in its Pro models to prevent performance throttling during intensive tasks like gaming and video recording, making this a logical next step in its design evolution.

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It is crucial to note that these images are of an early prototype, and the final design for the iPhone 17 Pro is far from confirmed. With the device's launch still over a year away, Apple is likely testing multiple configurations. However, the leak provides a fascinating glimpse into the company's long-term engineering goals for improving thermal performance, structural integrity, and regional component customization.