Tim Cook “extremely anxious” as iPhone 17 inventory runs into problems

Apple CEO Tim Cook is reportedly (translated source) “extremely anxious” as the iPhone 17 inventory build-up has run into problems. A shortage of low thermal expansion coefficient (low-CTE) fiberglass cloth is creating problems for Apple and is preventing the company from producing its next flagships.

Low-CTE fiberglass cloth is used in smartphones for heat dissipation and to reduce the stress on internal components that occurs due to temperature changes. It is a crucial part of a smartphone’s construction and the iPhone 17 line cannot be manufactured without it. Other parties in the industry are also reportedly making arrangements following the shortages.

Apple is apparently urging the supply chain every day to sort out this mess. The iPhone 17 needs to be ready on time not just because it’s the next Apple flagship but also because it will mark a new era for the company. Apple is trying a new look for the iPhone 17: with the Pro models featuring a much larger camera island similar to the Google Pixel 9 and its predecessors.

But even more importantly the iPhone 17 launch will feature a new model. All reports from multiple sources inside the industry indicate that Apple is about to retire the iPhone Plus model. Instead it will be replaced with the iPhone 17 Air: a much slimmer variant specifically targeted at users who prioritize aesthetics above all else.