Apple's Next Big Move: Latest iPhone 17 Rumors You Need to Know
- Apple may be brewing something big for the iPhone 17 lineup – here's an overview of the latest leaks, rumors and more.
- A new slim iPhone could shake up the lineup, but what’s happening to the Plus?
- Better cameras, faster chips, and a slick new Air model – trust me, you want to keep reading!
- With major upgrades rumored, the iPhone 17 Pro Max could be a game-changer for power users.
As anticipation builds for Apple's next release, the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro are expected to debut in September 2025. Here's a look at the latest rumors and predictions, though—as with all Apple leaks—it’s best to take them with a grain of salt until the official reveal.
The iPhone 17 Air
One of the most exciting rumors centers around the possible introduction of a new "slim" iPhone model, possibly called the iPhone 17 Air. Industry analysts like Jeff Pu and Ming-Chi Kuo suggest this model will feature a 6.6-inch display and a titanium frame, emphasizing design over performance.
While it may lack the processing power of the iPhone 17 Pro, the Air’s minimalist, stylish design could appeal to a new demographic that prioritizes aesthetics. According to The Information, this device could even surpass the iPhone 17 Pro Max in price, despite its simpler hardware.
“The Air will be a lifestyle device,” says Kuo, hinting that this model is designed more for users focused on appearance than function.
Photo via Mashable // A concept render of the sleek, rumored iPhone 17 Air model.
Is This Goodbye To Plus Sized iPhones?
Interestingly, despite the rumors of a new iPhone Air, it seems we may be saying goodbye to the iPhone 17 Plus. Ming-Chi Kuo predicts that the Plus will be discontinued in 2025 due to underwhelming sales—reportedly making up only 5-10% of total sales.
Supporting this claim, Consumer Intelligence Research Partners reports that the iPhone 15 Plus accounted for just 9% of sales in early 2024, solidifying Apple’s decision to phase out the model. If you're a fan of larger phones but don’t want to spend on the Pro Max, the iPhone 16 Plus might be your last chance to own a larger iPhone at a lower price.
What’s New Across the Lineup?
Here’s a breakdown of other potential upgrades and features we might see in the iPhone 17 lineup:
Photo via NewsroomPost // The iPhone 17 lineup might introduce always-on 120Hz displays across all models.
120Hz Always-On Displays for All Models
It looks like 120Hz refresh rates will finally make their way to base iPhone models. According to Ross Young, CEO of Display Supply Chain Consultants, 2025 will bring always-on displays with 120Hz technology to the entire iPhone range, not just the Pro models.
This upgrade levels the playing field against competitors like Google's Pixel 9 and Samsung's Galaxy S24, which already offer this feature at lower price points.
Tougher, Anti-Reflective Displays
Building on Apple's Ceramic Shield technology, the iPhone 17 could feature even tougher display glass. A Weibo leaker predicts that the screens will be more resistant to both cracks and reflections, making them easier to use in bright sunlight—a welcome improvement for durability-conscious consumers.
Photo via YugaTech // Rumored features for the iPhone 17, 17 'Slim', 17 Pro, and Pro Max models.
Selfie Camera Upgrade: 24MP
An exciting upgrade may come in the form of a 24MP front-facing camera, doubling the resolution of the current 12MP found on iPhone 16 models. If true, this would be a game-changer for selfie lovers and those who shoot vertical video content.
According to Ming-Chi Kuo, both the base and Pro models are expected to receive this enhancement, significantly improving image quality.
Faster Chips, More RAM
Apple's new A19 processor is all but confirmed for the iPhone 17, promising faster performance. While the chips won’t use a 2-nanometer process (as those won’t be available until late 2025), we can still expect a speed boost.
Analyst Jeff Pu also suggests that the iPhone 17 Pro will see 12GB of RAM, while the base model will stick with 8GB. These upgrades are essential to supporting Apple’s growing focus on machine learning and AI features.
Apple-Designed Wi-Fi and 5G Chips
Apple is reportedly shifting toward in-house chip production to reduce reliance on external suppliers like Qualcomm. According to DigiTimes, the iPhone 17 Pro will include an Apple-designed Wi-Fi chip, while both the base and Pro models might feature 5G chips made by Apple. This move could streamline Apple's production process and improve performance across the board.
48MP Telephoto Lens (iPhone 17 Pro)
Camera enhancements continue to be a big selling point, and the iPhone 17 Pro is rumored to introduce a 48MP telephoto lens. This would bring the Pro’s telephoto camera in line with its wide and ultra-wide counterparts, vastly improving zoom quality and image detail.
Photo via AppleInsider // Apple's iPhone 17 Pro Max could feature major camera upgrades, including a 48MP telephoto lens.
iPhone 17 Pro Max: The Powerhouse
If you’re waiting for Apple’s most powerful device, the iPhone 17 Pro Max won’t disappoint. The Pro Max is expected to feature a 12GB RAM upgrade, in contrast to the base iPhone 17’s 8GB, and will introduce an advanced cooling system using both graphite and vapor chamber technology to manage heat more effectively. According to Kuo, the iPhone 17 Pro Max will likely target professional users who demand peak performance.
This high-performance focus makes sense—Kuo notes that the Pro Max models account for around 40% of new iPhone shipments, making them a critical part of Apple's revenue strategy.
Final Thoughts
Photo via VOI // As always, Apple is keeping us guessing with its next iPhone lineup.
While many of these rumors are speculative, the iPhone 17 lineup promises significant upgrades across all models. From a sleek new design with the iPhone 17 Air to cutting-edge camera improvements, faster chips, and better displays, Apple seems poised to deliver yet another standout product line. Just remember—until the official Apple event in 2025, these details are subject to change.
Rumor or not, one thing is clear: Apple’s ability to keep us guessing remains as strong as ever.
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