The OLED iPad Pro Was Only the Beginning for Apple’s Return to Thin Devices

The thinness of the OLED iPad Pro is merely the beginning of a renewed effort by Apple to make increasingly thin devices, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman in the latest edition of the Power On newsletter. Gurman reveals that Apple plans a “significantly skinnier” iPhone 17 and is also working on reducing the thickness of the MacBook Pro and the Apple Watch.

A Thinner iPhone 17 on the Horizon

The concept of an ultra-thin "iPhone 17 Slim" isn’t entirely new. Reports from The Information and various supply chain analysts have suggested that this new model is on its way and could potentially be priced higher than the existing iPhone 15 Pro Max. While specific details about its slimness are scarce, it’s rumored to feature a 6.6-inch display and a smaller Dynamic Island.

Thinness has its advantages. Photo by Amelia Holowaty Krales / The Verge

Apple’s Historic Pursuit of Thinness

Apple’s history with thin devices is well-documented. The drive to create ultra-thin products led to some of the company’s most iconic designs but also resulted in several issues such as bendy iPhones, limited port selections, subpar battery life, thermal throttling, problematic keyboards, and even lawsuits. Over the past few years, Apple has reversed this trend, focusing on sturdiness and performance. The current iPhone 15 Pro models and the MacBook Pro lineup are among the thickest devices Apple has released in years, reflecting this shift in priorities.

The Nostalgia for Thin Devices

Despite the problems associated with extreme thinness, many users, including myself, miss the futuristic feel of Apple’s older, thinner devices. The compactness and elegance of an iPhone SE or the sleekness of an iPhone 12 or 13 Mini often evoke a sense of nostalgia. The return of such designs, paired with modern advancements, could offer the best of both worlds.

Promising Signs of Balanced Innovation

Apple’s recent products suggest that the company may have found a balance between thinness and functionality. The latest MacBook Air is incredibly thin—more so than the tiny, fanless 12-inch MacBook—yet it remains powerful and energy-efficient. David Pierce’s review of the new iPad Pro on The Verge indicates that its slim profile doesn’t come with significant compromises, retaining the robust features and performance expected from an iPad.

A New Era of Thoughtful Design

The push for thin devices must be tempered with practicality. Apple’s recent designs, which prioritize battery life and durability, are a welcome evolution. The iPhone 15 Pro and the latest MacBook Pro models reflect a design philosophy that values user experience over sheer thinness. As Apple prepares to introduce thinner versions of its devices, it’s crucial that the company continues to focus on these essential aspects.

Conclusion

Apple’s return to thin devices, spearheaded by the OLED iPad Pro, signals a new chapter in its design journey. The upcoming “significantly skinnier” iPhone 17 and the efforts to slim down the MacBook Pro and Apple Watch hint at exciting innovations ahead. However, the lessons of the past—where thinness sometimes compromised functionality—should guide Apple’s future designs. By balancing sleek aesthetics with performance and durability, Apple can deliver products that not only look impressive but also stand the test of time.

Stay tuned to Kushal Bharat Tech News for more updates on Apple’s latest developments and other groundbreaking tech news.