iPhone 17 Expected to Launch With These 10 New Upgrades
- A thinner, lighter iPhone could finally be on the horizon.
- Cameras are getting smarter, sharper, and... rectangular?
- Is Apple ditching titanium for aluminum on every iPhone 17 model?
Apple’s product pipeline is always in motion, with upcoming devices often generating buzz years before their official debut. The iPhone 17, set to launch in September 2025, is already shaping up to be a major update, with leaked details hinting at exciting changes across the lineup.
Here’s a closer look at 10 features that could make the iPhone 17 worth the wait.
1. A Lighter and Slimmer Design
Photo via HowToGeek // A concept rendering of Apple's upcoming iPhone 17 Air model, also known as iPhone 17 Slim, rumored to launch next year in September, 2025.
The rumored iPhone 17 Air (also known as iPhone 17 Slim) is expected to introduce a sleeker form factor, featuring a single rear camera at the top-center and a redesigned Dynamic Island. Reports suggest it will have a 6.5-inch display and potentially replace the iPhone 17 Plus. While its chassis will likely be aluminum, the overall thickness may not stray far from the iPhone 6’s 6.9mm, despite the thinner battery profile.
2. A Fresh Camera Layout
Photo via HowToGeek // Apple's iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max, launching in September 2025, are expected to feature several notable features and design improvements, especially when it comes to camera tech.
The Pro models are expected to showcase a rectangular aluminum camera bump paired with a glass lower half. This hybrid design blends aesthetics with functionality, enabling wireless charging. Notably, the camera module will be larger, likely to accommodate advanced lenses and sensors.
3. Expanded ProMotion Displays
Apple plans to bring 120Hz ProMotion to all iPhone models in 2025. This upgrade, previously exclusive to Pro models, offers smoother scrolling and improved video playback. Additionally, ProMotion enables refresh rates as low as 1Hz, supporting an always-on display for lock screen widgets and notifications, even when the phone is idle.
4. A 48MP Telephoto Lens
Photo via Gizbot // The Apple iPhone 17 series, pictured here, will make 2025 an exciting year for Apple fans and enthusiasts alike.
The iPhone 17 Pro Max will reportedly feature an upgraded 48-megapixel telephoto lens, optimized for use with Apple’s Vision Pro headset. This addition makes the Pro Max the first iPhone with a rear camera system entirely composed of 48MP lenses, promising unparalleled detail in photography.
5. New Wi-Fi 7 Support
The Pro models are tipped to include Apple-designed Wi-Fi 7 chips, delivering faster speeds, reduced latency, and more reliable connections. By simultaneously utilizing 2.4GHz, 5GHz, and 6GHz bands, these chips could outpace current standards and reduce Apple’s reliance on external suppliers like Broadcom.
6. Scratch-Resistant, Anti-Reflective Displays
Apple is rumored to debut a super-hard anti-reflective glass layer that enhances scratch resistance beyond the Ceramic Shield used in the iPhone 15. While it’s unclear if this technology matches Samsung’s Gorilla Glass Armor, it aligns with Apple’s focus on durability and usability under various lighting conditions. The display on iPhone 17 is rumored to be "more scratch-resistant," with "a super-hard anti-reflective layer."
7. Smaller Dynamic Island
Photo via Apple Scoop // Apple's rumored 2025 iPhone lineup, including the iPhone 17, 17 Air, 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max (from left to right).
The Pro Max model is expected to feature a narrower Dynamic Island, made possible by Apple’s adoption of metalens technology. This innovative lens design, etched with microscopic patterns, allows for more precise light redirection, paving the way for a smaller camera module.
8. Boosted Performance With A19 Chips
Powered by TSMC’s upgraded 3nm N3P process, the A19 chip will bring improved performance and energy efficiency to the entire lineup. While the Pro models may sport an A19 Pro chip, all devices will benefit from enhanced processing power and longer battery life.
Photo via Pocket Tactics // Apple's upcoming A19 chipset, launching with the iPhone 17 in September 2025.
9. More Memory for Pro Models
The Pro and Pro Max models are rumored to come with 12GB of RAM, up from the 8GB in the iPhone 16 Pro. This increase will enhance multitasking capabilities and support more advanced AI-driven features, offering a smoother user experience overall.
10. Aluminum Frames Across All Models
Photo via TUAW // Will Apple ditch titanium with the iPhone 17 Series? Analysts and leakers are giving conflicting reports thus far.
For the first time in years, Apple might unify its entire iPhone lineup under aluminum frames. Historically reserved for lower-tier models like the base-model iPhone 16 and SE models for example, aluminum will reportedly replace stainless steel and titanium in the Pro models in 2025. This change could signal a return to lighter, more affordable materials without compromising durability. However, it's important to note that these rumors have been mixed, with other leakers claiming Apple will stick with the more premium titanium finish for Pro models.
Closing Thoughts
With sleeker designs, camera upgrades, and industry-leading features like Wi-Fi 7 and A19 processors, the iPhone 17 is shaping up to be a significant leap forward. Whether you’re a casual user or a tech enthusiast, Apple’s 2025 lineup might just have something for everyone.
Recommended by the editors:
Thank you for visiting Apple Scoop! As a dedicated independent news organization, we strive to deliver the latest updates and in-depth journalism on everything Apple. Have insights or thoughts to share? Drop a comment below—our team actively engages with and responds to our community. Return to the home page.Published to Apple Scoop on 6th December, 2024.
No password required
A confirmation request will be delivered to the email address you provide. Once confirmed, your comment will be published. It's as simple as two clicks.
Your email address will not be published publicly. Additionally, we will not send you marketing emails unless you opt-in.