iPhone 17 rumors: Major design changes, camera upgrades, Dynamic Island and a new ‘Air’ model incoming?

As anticipation builds for Apple’s iPhone 17 lineup, several credible sources have provided insights into potential features and design changes. Here’s a roundup of the most discussed rumors:

1. Introduction of the iPhone 17 Air

Apple is reportedly planning to launch a new model, the iPhone 17 Air, characterized by an ultra-thin design. Speculations suggest a thickness ranging between 5.5mm to 6mm, making it the thinnest iPhone to date. This sleek profile aims to rejuvenate sales by offering a fresh aesthetic, especially after the lukewarm reception of previous Mini and Plus models. 

2. Display Enhancements Across the Lineup

The iPhone 17 series is expected to feature several display improvements:

• ProMotion Technology: All models, including the standard versions, may adopt ProMotion displays with 120Hz refresh rates, previously exclusive to Pro models. 

• Larger Screen Sizes: The standard iPhone 17 might see an increase in display size from 6.1 inches to 6.3 inches, aligning with trends toward larger screens. 

3. Enhanced Camera Capabilities

Camera upgrades are anticipated, particularly for the Pro models:

• 48-Megapixel Telephoto Lens: An upgrade from the current 12-megapixel telephoto camera to a 48-megapixel sensor is rumored for the iPhone 17 Pro variants, enhancing zoom and detail in photographs. 

• 24-Megapixel Front Camera: All iPhone 17 models may feature an upgraded 24-megapixel front-facing camera, doubling the resolution of current models and improving selfie and video call quality. 

4. Thermal Management Improvements

To address thermal performance, the iPhone 17 lineup is rumored to incorporate vapor chamber heatsink technology. This advancement aims to maintain consistent performance during intensive tasks by effectively managing heat dissipation. 

5. Transition to Apple-Designed Modem Chips

Apple is expected to introduce its own Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modem chips in the iPhone 17 series, reducing reliance on third-party suppliers and potentially enhancing connectivity performance. 

6. Discontinuation of the iPhone 17 Plus

Reports suggest that Apple may discontinue the iPhone 17 Plus model due to underwhelming sales, streamlining the lineup to focus on more popular variants. 

7. Dynamic Island remains the same size

 

According to Ming-Chi Kuo, the Dynamic Island of iPhone 17 and 17 Pro will remain the same size as iPhone 16 and 16 Pro. Kuo stated on X (Twitter): "I expect the Dynamic Island to remain largely unchanged across the 2H25 iPhone 17 series".

 

While these rumors provide an exciting glimpse into potential developments, it’s important to note that Apple has not officially confirmed any details regarding the iPhone 17 lineup. As with all pre-release information, these features are subject to change.