Leaked images reveal distinct design differences among the iPhone 17 models, which will include a standard and Air version, alongside the Pro and Pro Max, ahead of their expected launch in September 2024.
Distinct designs and models
The upcoming iPhone 17 series will feature noticeable design variations between the different models. Current iPhone 16 models already have clear distinctions between base and Pro versions primarily due to the camera configurations. In the iPhone 17, these differences will be even more pronounced, according to leaks from leaker Majin Bu.
The base model will maintain its traditional squarish camera bump. In contrast, the slim iPhone 17 Air will have a single rear camera in a camera strip. Both the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max will showcase a large camera island, which could enhance their design cohesiveness.
Alongside the iPhone 17 series, Apple recently launched the iPhone 16e, adding further variety to their offerings. While this range provides more options for buyers, it also raises questions regarding design consistency across the lineup.
Camera and display upgrades
All models are expected to feature aluminum frames and will utilize the new 3nm A19 chipsets. The Pro models may arrive with 48MP cameras, potentially increasing their competitive edge in the smartphone camera market. Moreover, the base iPhone 17 and Air models may finally include 120Hz displays, a long-awaited feature.
Further enhancements could involve reverse wireless charging capabilities for the Pro models and a redesign of the camera housing, possibly spreading the camera modules along the phone’s width. Specifically, the iPhone 17 Pro Max will retain the existing triangular camera arrangement but position the LED flash, microphone, and LiDAR scanner on the opposite side, creating a rectangular camera bar resembling designs found in Google’s Pixel series.
Dynamic Island and other features
There is uncertainty around whether the Dynamic Island size has been altered, despite earlier rumors suggesting a reduction. Reports indicate that the iPhone 17 Pro Max may feature a narrower Dynamic Island achieved through a new “metalens” design for Face ID.
Expected upgrades also include 24MP selfie cameras and vapor chamber cooling. These innovations come as Apple prepares for what would be a major redesign of the iPhone, aligning with the five-year anniversary of the iPhone 12, which marked the last significant overhaul.
Pro models’ features and enhancements
Details concerning specific upgrades for the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max have not been disclosed, but a combination of hardware and software improvements is anticipated, according to Mark Gurman’s ‘Power On’ newsletter. Previous models, like the iPhone 16 Pro, included a tetraprism telephoto lens, hinting at similar or enhanced optical features in the upcoming versions.
Additional improvements may encompass software stabilization for all rear cameras, enhancing video quality for content creators. Enhanced audio may come from an increased number of microphones positioned strategically on the devices.
Users of current models can offload footage to portable solid-state drives. The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max are expected to retain this feature while also potentially integrating professional tools within the camera app for a more seamless content creation experience.
Case renders suggest a significant enlargement of the rear camera island on the iPhone 17 Pro Max. It will again feature three lenses, with the addition of dedicated spaces for the flash, a microphone, and LIDAR sensor. This redesign aims to accommodate new hardware and potentially more advanced lens technology, as indicated by the recent iPhone 16e.
Featured image credit: Daniel Romero/Unsplash
