Apple iPhone 17 & iPhone 18 Rumors, Leaks, and More
- Apple's iPhone 17 will be revealed next year, with the iPhone 18 following in 2026. But what's in store?
- Insider doubts linger: Will the iPhone 17 Air repeat past missteps?
- LG Innotek’s hefty investment hints at big changes for the new iPhone’s camera.
Apple enthusiasts are gearing up for the unveiling of the iPhone 17 series next September, followed by the iPhone 18 in 2026. As rumors and leaks circulate, industry insiders provide a clearer picture of what Apple has in store for its next-generation smartphones.
Apple has traditionally dominated the smartphone market with its flagship models: iPhone (Standard), iPhone Pro, and iPhone Pro Max. However, attempts to diversify the lineup with additional models have met with mixed results. The iPhone mini initially attracted a dedicated fan base, but failed to achieve broad market appeal, leading to its replacement with the larger Plus variant. Unfortunately, the Plus model also received a lukewarm response, prompting Apple to reconsider its strategy for expanding the iPhone family.
According to countless rumors and reports, Apple's 2025 lineup will be different, with a new ultra-slim model in the lineup.
Anticipated 2025 iPhone Models:
- iPhone 17
- iPhone 17 Air (Replacing the 'Plus' model of previous years)
- iPhone 17 Pro
- iPhone 17 Pro Max
What is iPhone 17 Air?
Photo via HowToGeek // A fan-made concept rendering of Apple's upcoming 2025 iPhone 17 Air.
In his latest Power On newsletter, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman explores Apple’s rationale behind the iPhone 17 Air. Drawing parallels to the successful MacBook Air, Apple aims to offer a mid-tier smartphone option that appeals to users who prioritize design and usability over top-tier specifications.
For its third attempt, Apple will go with a slimmed-down iPhone, aiming to replicate its success with the MacBook Air.— Mark Gurman
Key iPhone 17 Air Features:
- Processor: A19 chip, using a 3nm process
- Display: 120Hz refresh rate with Dynamic Island
- Camera: Single rear camera system
- Design: Ultra-thin profile, inspired by MacBook Air aesthetics
The iPhone 17 Air will replace the 'Plus' model in next year's iPhone range, reliable rumors suggest. This would make the lineup: iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max, dropping the Plus model that Apple has been testing for the past few iPhone models.
It's also worth noting that analysts and industry insiders are split on whether Apple's next iPhone will be named 'iPhone 17 Air' or 'iPhone 17 Slim,' with flip-flopping rumors about the actual dimensions of the device, especially when it comes to thinness.
Rumored iPhone 17 Lineup
| Model | Display | Chip | RAM | Rear Cameras | Thickness |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone 17 | 6.1" | A19 (N3P) | 8GB | 48MP + 12MP Ultra Wide | ~7.8mm |
| iPhone 17 Air | 6.6" | A19 (N3P) | 8GB | 48MP Single Rear Camera | 6mm |
| iPhone 17 Pro | 6.3" | A19 Pro (N3P) | 12GB | 48MP Main, Telephoto, Ultra Wide | ~8.25mm |
| iPhone 17 Pro Max | 6.9" | A19 Pro (N3P) | 12GB | 48MP Main, Telephoto, Ultra Wide | ~8.25mm |
Behind the scenes, LG Innotek is making significant investments to support the production of the iPhone 17’s camera modules. The South Korean manufacturer announced plans to spend 375.9 billion won (roughly $267.6 million USD) to upgrade its facilities by December next year, ensuring it meets the demands of Apple’s latest iteration.
Investment Breakdown
- Total Investment: ₩375.9 billion (roughly $267.6 million USD)
- Purpose: Upgrade camera module production facilities
- Timeline: Until December 2025
A Pinch of Salt
Despite the strategic inspiration, Gurman predicts challenges for the iPhone 17 Air. He believes the model might follow in the footsteps of the mini and Plus lines, struggling to gain traction in a competitive market. He suggests that the only alternative with strong market potential could be a foldable iPhone, expected no earlier than 2026.
Photo via Social Nation // A concept image of what Apple's upcoming foldable iPhone might look like, although its unclear if Apple will choose a flip-phone design or book-like design.
I predict the ‘iPhone Air’ will suffer the same fate as the mini and Plus lines.— Mark Gurman
Looking Ahead
Leaked information suggests that other than Apple's 17 Air model, the tech giants next steps might render the iPhone 17 less appealing to enthusiasts eager for cutting-edge features. However, the iPhone 18, rumoured to house Apple's first A-series 2nm processor, might be a more worthy upgrade.
iPhone 18:
Rumors indicate significant upgrades for the iPhone 18, including an LTPO+ display and the introduction of the A20 chip allegedly using 2nm chips—potentially developed in collaboration with Intel. These enhancements could make the iPhone 18 a more compelling upgrade option.
Photo via BGR // Apple's iPhone 18 series will come in September 2026 with the rumor mill already uncovering key feature updates and new design elements.
Foldable iPhone:
The prospect of a foldable iPhone has been floating around for years now. While details are scarce, industry watchers believe that a foldable model could finally capture the market segment Apple has struggled to engage with its traditional lineup.
Photo via AppleInsider // A potential design concept image of Apple's long-rumored foldable iPhone.
Conclusion
The launch of the iPhone 17, including the iPhone 17 Air, represents Apple’s continued experimentation with its smartphone offerings. While the model draws inspiration from successful products like the MacBook Air, industry insiders like Mark Gurman express reservations about its potential success. As Apple navigates these challenges, the tech community eagerly awaits the next wave of innovations, particularly the anticipated foldable iPhone slated for a mid-decade debut.
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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 24th November, 2024.
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