Although the iPhone 16 series has only been out for about six months—and we recently saw the iPhone 16e—tech enthusiasts are already shifting focus to what’s coming next: the iPhone 17 lineup. Reports suggest that internally, Apple executives are calling these upcoming devices their “most ambitious” products yet.
Current rumors indicate a major shift: the “Plus” model will be scrapped and replaced by a new “Slim” or “Air” model. Additionally, the “Pro Max” might be rebranded as “Ultra,” and all four models are expected to feature a 120Hz ProMotion display and upgraded 24MP front cameras.
If you skipped upgrading to the iPhone 16 or are simply curious about what’s brewing at Apple, here’s a roundup of the most credible rumors we’ve seen so far about the iPhone 17 lineup.
A Revamped Lineup: Meet the iPhone 17 Air and Ultra?
Among Apple’s lineup, the Plus model has reportedly underperformed, as Bloomberg points out that most buyers prefer paying a bit more for a Pro model. This opens the door for the rumored “iPhone 17 Air,” expected to have a 6.6-inch display, a single 48MP camera, and between 8GB to 12GB RAM to support advanced AI features.
Originally, Apple considered a portless design for the Air, but abandoned it due to the EU’s USB-C requirements. With a thickness of only 6.25mm, the Air could become Apple’s thinnest iPhone ever, surpassing even the iPhone 6.
One downside of this slim design could be reduced durability and fewer speakers, possibly leading to only one top speaker. To minimize bending risks (an infamous issue with the iPhone 6 Plus), Apple reportedly shrunk the screen size slightly.
Meanwhile, the “Pro Max” might be renamed “Ultra” and could become slightly thicker to accommodate a larger battery. The base and Pro models might also see a slight screen size increase from 6.1 inches to 6.3 inches.
Design Overhaul
The iPhone 17 family is rumored to undergo noticeable design changes, particularly on the back. Expect a new horizontal camera bump (except for the base model) with rounded corners, drawing some comparisons to the Google Pixel 9 Pro. The Pro models would notably move away from their classic square camera layout.
Despite some rumors about a two-tone design, insiders say the entire device will remain a single color, including the camera area. As for colors, expect a new “Sky Blue” variant for Pro models, joining the current Titanium color options.
Materials-wise, there’s conflicting information: while some sources suggest all models will use aluminum frames, others claim the Pro models will stick with titanium.
On the front, a smaller Dynamic Island cutout is anticipated for the Air model, and a new “metalens” technology might make the Face ID sensors on the Pro Max more compact.
Big Software Changes
iOS 19, expected to debut with the iPhone 17, promises the biggest software overhaul since iOS 7. It will bring redesigned icons, vibrant new app colors, translucent menus, and more glass-like visuals, resembling visionOS from Apple’s Vision Pro headset.
Although early leaks show only slight differences compared to iOS 18, official previews at WWDC in June are expected to reveal more substantial changes.
Display Improvements
All iPhone 17 models are likely to support 120Hz refresh rates and Always-On Displays (AOD) thanks to LTPO technology. Apple will reportedly rely on Samsung for Pro model panels and LG for the Air and base models. Additionally, talks with Corning could lead to even more scratch-resistant, anti-reflective glass.
Camera Enhancements
Front cameras are getting a major upgrade: all models will feature 24MP sensors, centrally placed within the Dynamic Island. Some models might also support dual video recording with both front and rear cameras.
The Pro Max model is tipped to feature three 48MP rear cameras (wide, ultra-wide, and periscope-style Tetraprism lens), while the Air will stick to a single 48MP shooter. There’s also a possibility of adjustable mechanical apertures and 8K video recording—though the latter may stay exclusive to Pro models.
Performance Upgrades
The iPhone 17 and 17 Air will use the new A19 chip, while the Pro and Ultra models will receive the A19 Pro chip. Despite some rumors about 2nm chips, the latest information suggests all models will stick with enhanced 3nm N3P chips from TSMC.
RAM upgrades are also expected: 8GB for the Air and base model, and up to 12GB for Pro models.
In-House Hardware Development
Apple is pushing to make more components internally. After designing its own processors, Apple is reportedly developing batteries and modems. Future iPhone models will feature Apple-designed Wi-Fi chips, with the Slim model carrying the C1 modem for 5G connectivity.
Rumors also suggest Apple might incorporate a vapor chamber cooling system to better manage heat in high-performance devices.
Pricing and Release
Apple is likely to stick to its traditional September launch schedule. The iPhone 17 Air might start around $900, similar to the current iPhone 16 Plus pricing. Pro models are expected to retain their $999 starting price.
However, new tariffs on Chinese imports could influence final prices. Apple has been moving some production to India to mitigate these costs.
Stay tuned as we await more leaks and the official reveal!
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