Apple appears to be working on the iPhone 17 Slim, which will come with a batch of 2025 smartphones. All indications point to this device being Apple's most expensive iPhone, making the latest rumors suggesting it will feature only a single camera module somewhat surprising.

It makes more sense once you understand why Apple is cutting back on camera lenses. According to Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the company is focusing more on form than function in its upcoming device. In this case, the form is slim, and everything else seems to have taken a backseat to making the phone as thin as possible.

Apple has traditionally included two cameras on the base and Plus models of the iPhone, and three on the Pro and Pro Max versions, so a model with only one lens would be a major change.

Early rumors suggest that other iPhone 17 models are expected to feature a 48MP wide lens, possibly on the iPhone 17 Slim. After all, the wide (Apple's term for main) lens is the most versatile, offering the best resolution and depth of field while allowing some zoom. If the rumors that Apple will offer an adjustable aperture on the iPhone 17 are genuine and that feature is included on the Slim, it will help photography.

Other details from the latest Kuo report include speculation that the iPhone 17 Slim will be made of “a lower percentage of titanium than the current Pro and Pro Max metal frames.” He also said the Slim will feature a 6.6-inch display with a resolution of 2,740 x 1,260, an A19 chip, Dynamic Island, and Apple's own 5G chip instead of Qualcomm's.

Another rumor suggests that Apple will remove the Plus model from the lineup with the iPhone 17, leaving the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max, and adding the new iPhone 17 Slim. Interestingly, Kuo said, “The new ultra-thin model is not positioned to replace the Plus. Instead, Apple is exploring new design trends beyond the existing iPhone lineup.”

He stated.

According to another recent report, Apple is working on a foldable iPhone for 2026 that folds horizontally like the Galaxy Z Flip 6. And the iPhone 17 Slim could be an important design milestone for Apple designers.

If the Plus is phased out in favor of the Slim, it would be an interesting move, but Kuo also noted that the Plus only accounts for 5-10% of iPhone sales, so it would not be surprising if Apple is looking for something new.