Apple postpones plans for thinner iPhone models: Ming-Chi Kuo
There were rumors that Apple would use new resin-coated copper (RCC) components in its iPhone models in order to reduce their size and thickness. The revolutionary design change was supposed to arrive with the iPhone 16 family this year, but was later delayed until the iPhone 17, which is expected to go official in 2025. Now, renowned Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has suggested that Apple has once again postponed its plans to integrate RCC components in future iPhone models. Concerns over durability and fragility are said to be the reasons behind Apple’s rumored decision.
Switching to RCC material on hold
In a post by X (formerly Twitter), analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said notes that Apple has again postponed its plans to use RCC components in its future iPhone models. “Due to the inability to meet Apple’s high quality requirements, the new iPhone 17 in 2025 will not use RCC as the PCB motherboard material,” Kuo wrote on X.
Using RCC components to replace the current copper laminate (CCL) would help the Cupertino company reduce the size and thickness of the motherboard. It would also likely free up space and allow the brand to pack larger batteries in future iPhone models. Concerns about durability and fragility could be the reason for delaying the adoption of RCC technology.
Apple was initially rumored to upgrade the PCB materials in its iPhone 16 lineup in 2024, but that was then reportedly pushed to the iPhone 17 series. Kuo didn’t say whether RCC components would be introduced with the iPhone 18 in 2026 or the iPhone 19 in 2027. Apple hasn’t released any details on its switch to RCC materials, though, so it’s best to take these latest claims with a grain of salt.
iPhone 17 series: what we know so far
Apple’s 2025 iPhone family is said to consist of four models: iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Slim, iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max. The Slim model could replace the Plus variant and offer a slim design. The iPhone 17 family is said to bring a refreshed design, upgrades to the front-facing camera, and a smaller Dynamic Island. The iPhone 17 Pro models are said to be powered by Apple’s A19 Pro chip, while the regular iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Slim could be powered by an A18 or A19 chip.
