A newly surfaced image, allegedly showing the iPhone 17 Pro Max’s metal frame, has triggered heated debate among Apple fans and tech analysts. The photo, shared online by well-known leaker Majin Bu, depicts a set of metal plates that many initially believed belonged to Apple’s next high-end smartphone. However, industry experts are now casting doubt on that claim, suggesting the parts are more likely connected to accessory production rather than Apple’s actual hardware.
Doubts Surround the Alleged Frame Leak
The leaked image showcases multiple metallic pieces featuring cutouts that seem to align with Apple’s MagSafe layout and rumored camera redesign. Early reactions fueled speculation that these plates confirmed major design tweaks coming to the iPhone 17 series.
Yet closer inspection paints a different picture. In recent years, Apple has transitioned away from using large, full-body metal frames inside its devices, favoring smaller, modular plates instead. This makes it unlikely that the leaked items are genuine iPhone components. The layout and structure of the pieces appear inconsistent with Apple’s modern design philosophy, which emphasizes ultra-thin construction and tightly integrated materials.
Accessory Industry May Hold the Answer
Several experts now believe these metal plates are not iPhone parts at all, but rather manufacturing templates or molds used by case makers. Accessory manufacturers frequently rely on rumored dimensions and leaked design data to start production ahead of official product launches.
The raised sections and unusual hole placements seen in the leaked images also support this theory. Such characteristics are common in molds for silicone or plastic cases, allowing third-party makers to ensure that their designs fit accurately around MagSafe magnets and camera lenses once the actual phones are released.
Separating Fact from Speculation
This latest leak adds to the long list of unverified reports surrounding the iPhone 17 Pro Max. While expectations remain high for Apple’s next flagship, concrete details about its final design are still scarce. Many leaks tend to blend truth with speculation, making it difficult to separate credible information from fabricated hype.
Conclusion
The iPhone 17 Pro Max continues to generate buzz months before its official debut, but this recent “leak” likely has more to do with the accessory market than Apple’s engineering. As anticipation builds, it’s worth remembering that not every leak is what it seems—and the real iPhone 17 Pro Max will only be revealed when Apple decides the time is right.