iPhone 17 Slim vs. Galaxy S25 Slim: Shared Design Challenges and Solutions for 2025
Apple and Samsung are both innovating their designs, aiming for ultra-thin models with the iPhone 17 Slim and Galaxy S25 Slim, expected in the second half of 2025. However, both tech giants face similar engineering obstacles. Creating a phone that’s sleek yet powerful involves overcoming two main challenges: reducing motherboard size and enhancing battery technology.
For Apple, progress has been made on the motherboard. The remaining hurdle lies in reducing manufacturing costs, as noted by tech insider yeux1122 on Naver. Apple initially explored advanced battery tech but opted to use existing materials due to production limitations. Consequently, the iPhone 17 Slim will likely measure a slim 6mm, a significant reduction from the 7.8mm thickness of the current iPhone 16 Plus model, with a new 6.6-inch OLED display planned. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo projects that this Slim model will constitute around 5-10% of iPhone sales in its first year.
Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Slim, which could replace the S25 FE, is set to feature a slim design that may even influence the Galaxy S26 series if well-received. Like Apple, Samsung encountered setbacks with motherboard production due to supplier issues. However, unlike Apple, Samsung is exploring new battery materials, which may yield a thinner design. Current models suggest the thinnest Galaxy S25 variant might compete closely with the S24’s 7.6mm thickness.
These shared challenges highlight the fine line between form and function in modern smartphone design as both brands push boundaries in 2025.
Source (Korean)
