Apple’s upcoming iPhone 17 lineup is shaping up to be one of the biggest smartphone launches of 2025. Expected to arrive in September, the series is rumored to include four models: iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Air, and iPhone 17 Pro Max. Leaks have already provided a glimpse into potential design changes, performance upgrades, and camera improvements. Here’s everything we know so far.
A Fresh Look With a Slimmer Frame
Apple is reportedly making subtle yet meaningful changes to the design of the iPhone 17 series. While the standard iPhone 17 is expected to resemble its predecessor, the Pro models may feature a new rectangular camera module spanning the width of the device. This could give the lineup a modern, unified aesthetic.
The iPhone 17 Air is rumored to be 2mm slimmer than the iPhone 16 Pro, making it one of Apple’s thinnest models in recent years. Meanwhile, the USB-C port and Action button are likely to remain across all models, maintaining continuity in Apple’s design language.
Display Upgrades Across the Board
Apple appears to be increasing screen sizes for select models, with reports indicating that the standard iPhone 17 will feature a 6.3-inch display, up from the 6.1-inch panel on the iPhone 16.
- The iPhone 17 Air could replace the Plus model and sport a 6.6-inch display.
- The iPhone 17 Pro Max is likely to retain its 6.9-inch size.
- ProMotion technology (120Hz refresh rate) may finally come to all models, improving scrolling and responsiveness.
Leakers also suggest an anti-reflective coating across the series, which would enhance outdoor visibility under bright sunlight. This improvement, paired with a possible OLED panel enhancement, could result in one of the best displays on any smartphone in 2025.
A19 Chipset Brings More Power
Performance has always been Apple’s strong suit, and the iPhone 17 series is expected to push the boundaries further. The standard iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Air could be powered by the new A19 chipset, while the Pro models may feature a more advanced A19 Pro chip. These processors are expected to offer improved energy efficiency, leading to better battery life.
Apple is also rumored to be enhancing thermal management by incorporating a vapor chamber cooling system. This could be a game-changer for users who engage in heavy gaming or 4K video recording, helping the devices manage heat more efficiently.
Big Leap in Camera Capabilities
One of the most exciting leaks suggests a significant upgrade to the front camera. Apple might introduce a 24-megapixel sensor for sharper and more detailed selfies, doubling the resolution of the current 12MP front camera.
On the back, the iPhone 17 will likely continue with a 48MP primary sensor but without the 5x telephoto zoom, which will remain exclusive to the Pro models. Meanwhile, the iPhone 17 Pro Max is expected to retain its three-lens setup (wide, ultra-wide, and telephoto), with potential enhancements like a mechanical aperture for better light control in different shooting conditions.
Battery and Charging: Faster, But Still Behind Android Rivals
Battery capacity remains uncertain, but with increased screen sizes, Apple may introduce larger batteries to accommodate the extra power demands. The iPhone 16 Pro, for reference, has a 3,582mAh battery, and Apple could increase this slightly.
Leaks suggest that Apple may introduce 35W fast charging across the lineup. While this is a welcome improvement, it still falls behind some Android competitors that offer charging speeds above 60W. Wireless charging speeds are expected to remain similar to previous models, with MagSafe continuing as the standard.
The Countdown to September Begins
As we inch closer to Apple’s expected September 2025 launch event, more leaks and details are likely to emerge. If these early reports hold true, the iPhone 17 lineup could bring some of the most meaningful upgrades in years, from display enhancements to improved camera technology and faster processors. Whether these changes will be enough to sway users from holding onto their current iPhones remains to be seen.
