The iPhone 17 is expected to be released in September 2025, and it’s shaping up to be a significant upgrade from the iPhone 16. Here are some key things we can expect:
iPhone 17 Slim
A new, slimmer model of the iPhone is rumoured to be introduced with the iPhone 17. It could have a 6.6-inch display and a redesign similar to the iPhone X. It’s also rumoured to be the most expensive model, possibly costing more than the Pro Max models. To make space in the lineup for the Slim, there will likely be no iPhone 17 Plus. The iPhone 17 Slim might even be one of the first iPhones with an Apple-made modem, although it may also only have a single main camera lens.
Design and Display
Aside from the Slim model, the design of the iPhone 17 is not expected to change much from the iPhone 16. The basic iPhone 17 might finally get a 120Hz ProMotion display for smoother performance, and the screen itself may be more robust with an anti-reflective layer for better scratch resistance. The iPhone 17 Pro’s display could benefit from new “Low-Dielectric TEE” technology for better power efficiency, durability, and overall performance. However, some rumours suggest that the Pro models will switch from a titanium frame to a cheaper, less durable aluminum frame. Another design rumour, based on leaked frame components, is that Apple could move the camera array to the centre of the iPhone 17.
Performance and Battery
The iPhone 17 will likely feature Apple’s new A19 chipset, which could be built on TSMC’s third-generation 3nm process for better performance and energy efficiency. Apple is also rumoured to be building its own batteries for the iPhone 17 series, with the aim of offering significantly improved performance. The iPhone 17 Pro models are expected to come with 12GB of RAM, up from 8GB in the current models. The entire iPhone 17 lineup could also use a new glue for the batteries that will make them easier to replace.
Cameras
The iPhone 17 Pro Max is tipped to get three 48MP cameras. The regular iPhone 17 might stick with the iPhone 16’s 48MP primary lens and 12MP ultrawide camera. The front-facing camera on all iPhone 17 models is rumoured to be upgraded to 24MP. There is also speculation that we might see an iPhone camera lens with a variable aperture for the first time. The Pro models might also get a horizontal camera array, similar to the Pixel 9 Pro.
Overall, the iPhone 17 looks to be a significant upgrade with a new model, display and performance improvements, and camera upgrades.
Specifications
| Feature | iPhone 17 | iPhone 17 Pro | iPhone 17 Pro Max | iPhone 17 Slim |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.1-inch | 6.3-inch | 6.9-inch | 6.6-inch |
| Display Type | LTPO OLED | LTPO OLED | LTPO OLED | LTPO OLED |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz (rumoured) | 120Hz | 120Hz | 120Hz |
| Dynamic Island | Yes | Yes, smaller | Yes, smaller | Yes |
| Processor | A19 | A19 Pro | A19 Pro | A19 |
| RAM | 8GB | 12GB | 12GB | 8GB |
| Rear Cameras | 48MP main, 12MP ultrawide | 48MP main, 48MP ultrawide, 48MP telephoto | 48MP main, 48MP ultrawide, 48MP telephoto | Single 48MP main, or dual camera system |
| Front Camera | 24MP | 24MP | 24MP | 24MP |
| Frame Material | Aluminium (rumoured) | Aluminium (rumoured) | Aluminium | |
| Other Features | Apple-designed battery, easier battery replacement | Apple-designed battery, easier battery replacement, “Low-Dielectric TEE” display technology | Apple-designed battery, easier battery replacement, “Low-Dielectric TEE” display technology | Apple-designed battery, easier battery replacement, possibly the first iPhone with an Apple-made modem |
Notes:
- This information is based on leaks and rumours and should be treated with caution.
- Specifications may change closer to the release date.
It is important to note that some rumours are contradictory. For example, some sources say the iPhone 17 Pro models will have an aluminium frame, while others say they will retain the titanium frame. Only time will tell which rumours prove to be true.
iPhone 17 Series Looks
Currently, there aren’t any confirmed images of the iPhone 17 series available. The sources primarily discuss rumored specifications and features, but they lack concrete visual representations.
However, some sources offer clues about potential design directions:
- Renders based on leaks: Some tech YouTubers and websites have created renders based on leaked frame components and design rumours. For example, mentions renders showcasing a potential iPhone 17 Pro Max redesign with a horizontal camera array similar to Google’s Pixel phones.
- Design language comparisons: Sources speculate that the iPhone 17 Slim could have a design similar to the iPhone X. This might involve a thinner profile, smaller bezels, and potentially a notch or a more refined Dynamic Island.
Keep in mind that these renders and comparisons are based on speculation and unofficial information. They shouldn’t be considered definitive representations of the final iPhone 17 design.
As we get closer to the expected release date in September 2025, more concrete leaks and images might surface.
