All the news and rumors about the iPhone 17 series
September 2025 is coming, and that means the iPhone 17 rumor market is hotter than ever. But let me tell you, this year is not just a simple annual update. It seems that Apple is going to shake things up and we may see the biggest changes since the iPhone X. Evidence suggests that the changes this generation are much bigger than a faster processor or a better camera, and Apple is turning its entire product strategy upside down. In this article, we are going to dive into the world of rumors and see what is going on around the iPhone 17; from its new family with that mysterious slim model and the completely new look of the Pro models to the secret displays that are going to come to all models and of course the always-discussed price and market position. So stay tuned as we reveal all the news and rumors about the iPhone 17 series!
Goodbye to the Plus model, hello to the iPhone 17 Air!
One of the biggest news bombs we can expect in 2025 is a major shake-up in the iPhone lineup. It seems that Apple is going to say goodbye to the lackluster Plus model and add a completely new and exciting member to its family.
The new lineup of the iPhone team
According to a number of reliable reports, Apple still wants to have four models, but with a different lineup:
- iPhone 17 (standard model)
- iPhone 17 Air (or Slim)
- iPhone 17 Pro
- iPhone 17 Pro Max
This means we have to say goodbye to the Plus model, which, to be honest, never sold as well as Apple wanted and its sales were not very impressive compared to the other models.
The best phone in every price range (August 2025)
The iPhone 17 Air is not just a phone, it’s a lifestyle!
The new model, called Air or Slim, is not just a replacement for the Plus model, but a completely new philosophy. The focus of this model is no longer on a larger display, but on a completely new design centered on extremely low thickness. Rumors say that the thickness of this model is between 5.5 and 6 mm, which, if true, will make it one of the thinnest phones in history and revive the design memories of the iPhone 6 and iPad Pro M4. Insiders even call this model D23 and say that its design is as revolutionary and stealthy as the introduction of the iPhone X. The goal of this model is to attract those who are looking for a stylish and classy phone but do not necessarily need the latest power and features of the Pro models.
This model is expected to fall somewhere between the standard iPhone 17 and the iPhone 17 Pro in terms of price and features. Initial estimates predict its price to be around $ 899 to $ 999, which is almost the same as the Plus model, God forbid, although this price may go up or down due to the impact of US trade tariffs.
This change represents a major strategic shift for Apple. The Plus model had a simple proposition: a bigger display and battery. But the Air/Slim model is a different story, focusing on aesthetics and philosophy: extreme thickness and a new design, even if it comes at the cost of sacrificing battery capacity and camera variety. This approach is reminiscent of Apple’s successful strategy with MacBooks, where the MacBook Air was defined by design and style, and the MacBook Pro by power and features. In effect, Apple is shifting its product division from something simple based on size to a more complex, design-driven strategy that creates a whole new product category for those who value beauty over pure performance.
iPhone 17 Series Leaked Specs in Brief
New Design, Controversial Body Material, and Screaming Colors: The iPhone 17 is Going to Win Everyone’s Heart!
The iPhone 17 series is going to have a lot of big changes, not just in the lineup, but also in terms of looks. From the camera module to the body material and color scheme, everything is set for a major transformation. The most significant change in the appearance of the Pro models is that there is no more square camera island, and instead we have a horizontal camera strip that takes up the entire width of the phone and reminds us of the design of Google’s Pixel phones. This new design may make the Apple logo lower to make room for the camera strip and the MagSafe wireless charging coil.
One of the most controversial rumors is that the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max models are going to switch from titanium frames to aluminum. On the other hand, the new iPhone 17 Air/Slim model is likely to have a titanium or titanium-aluminum alloy frame; meaning a Pro feature is being transferred to a non-Pro model. The standard iPhone 17 model also keeps its aluminum frame. This change of strategy is a big challenge for Apple’s marketing team. The company has spent two generations honing its titanium for its sturdiness, lightness, and durability. Now, the return to aluminum in the Pro models requires a very strong narrative to explain why a material that was once considered a low-end material is now appropriate for its most expensive phones, especially when that same titanium is carried over to the Air model.
Nothing Phone 3 Disassembly
The reports are conflicting. Some sources, such as analyst Jeff Poe, believe that using the new metalens technology for the Face ID system will allow Apple to significantly reduce the size of the Dynamic Island, at least in the Pro Max model. On the other hand, trusted analyst Ming-Chi Kuo says that the size of the Dynamic Island will remain largely unchanged from the iPhone 16 series. This discrepancy is one of the biggest question marks.
Cool new iPhone 17 color palette
Apple is looking to make the iPhone 17 more visually appealing with new colors for the new iPhone series:
- Pro models: Rumors suggest a bold new orange or copper color, along with options like black, white, gray, and dark blue. One of the colors is also said to have a special effect called Liquid Glass, which is compatible with the iOS 26 interface and creates different effects under different lighting.
And the standard and Air models: The standard iPhone 17 is expected to come in new purple and green colors, along with the classic black, blue, and silver/white. The Air model will have a softer color palette of black, white, light blue (similar to the Sky Blue color of the MacBook Air), and light gold.
With some key features like the display becoming standard, Apple is using the design and physical feel of the phone as a main tool to differentiate the models. The different camera strip designs for the Pro, the slimmer bezels for the Air, and the classic look for the standard model show that the look and feel of the body are as important as the internals in defining each model’s place in the iPhone family.
The wait is finally over: 120Hz displays for everyone!
One of the most talked-about and persistent rumors about the iPhone 17 series is the significant display upgrade across all models, which could revolutionize the user experience across the entire iPhone family. All four iPhone 17 models are expected to feature LTPO displays with ProMotion technology, which offers variable refresh rates of up to 120Hz. This means that the 60Hz display on the standard models that has been the subject of much criticism for years is finally gone; a weakness that has always been criticized, especially when compared to cheaper Android phones. The use of LTPO technology also brings the Always-On Display feature to the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Air, another useful feature that was previously only available on the Pro models.
Stronghold Crusader Definitive Edition review
New Exclusive Feature for Pro Models: Anti-Reflective Coating
To give the Pro models an even higher edge, Apple has added a new, exclusive feature to their displays: a new anti-reflective, more scratch-resistant coating. Similar to the nano-textured glass on Apple’s Pro Display XDR, this technology drastically reduces reflections and increases the durability of the screen.
New Display Sizes and Narrower Bezels
According to reports from trusted display analysts like Ross Young, the display sizes will be as follows:
- iPhone 17 and 17 Pro: 6.27 inches (marketed as 6.3 inches)
- iPhone 17 Air: 6.55 to 6.6 inches
- iPhone 17 Pro Max: 6.86 inches (marketed as 6.9 inches)
It’s also possible that all models will feature the ultra-narrow bezels first seen on the iPhone 16 Pro series. The strategy can be described as: raising the bar to redefine the Pro. By standardizing on a 120Hz refresh rate, Apple is eliminating a major competitive disadvantage and dramatically improving the user experience across its entire lineup. To keep the Pro models from losing their appeal, Apple will have to innovate in more subtle, truly professional features like anti-reflective coatings. It’s a smart move to upgrade the entire lineup at the same time while maintaining the distinction between the top-end models.
17-series camera rumors: A giant without horns and a tail for the Pro, one thing, but the right thing for the Slim!
The camera has always been Apple’s trump card for differentiating models, but with the iPhone 17 series, this strategy reaches its peak, showcasing three completely different approaches.
Pro’s highlight: All-48MP camera system
A revolutionary upgrade for the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max is that all three of their rear lenses, the main (wide), ultrawide, and telephoto, will be equipped with 48MP sensors. This is a giant leap for the ultrawide and telephoto lenses, which had 12MP sensors in previous generations. Not only will this upgrade dramatically improve the detail of zoomed and wide-angle shots, it’s also a key prerequisite for enabling the long-rumored 8K video recording capability.
Air/Slim compromise: Just one lens?
To achieve that ultra-slim design, the iPhone 17 Air/Slim is said to have just one camera on the back. This camera will likely be a high-quality 48-megapixel sensor, but the lack of ultrawide and telephoto lenses is a major setback even compared to the standard iPhone model. It’s also a key weakness against its direct competitor, the Samsung Galaxy S25 Slim, which also has a decent ultrawide lens.
Universal upgrade: 24-megapixel selfie camera
The good news for all iPhone 17 series buyers is the upgrade of the selfie camera to a 24-megapixel sensor, a significant jump from the current 12-megapixel sensor. This improvement improves the quality of selfies, allows for better cropping of photos, and improves the quality of FaceTime video calls. With this approach, Apple is using the camera system as a tool for intense market segmentation. The camera strategy for this generation falls into three distinct levels: an uncompromising, professional triple system for the Pro models, a streamlined dual system for the standard model, and a minimalist, single-lens approach for the Air/Slim model that prioritizes beauty over versatility. The choice is no longer between good and best; now there is a third option: beauty over functionality.
What’s under the hood of the iPhone 17? A19, more RAM, and a new cooling system!
So, let’s take a look under the hood of these beautiful iPhones. A series of cool hardware upgrades await us there, designed to support the next generation of Apple’s software and artificial intelligence.
New generation of silicon: A19 and A19 Pro
The beating heart of this series is expected to be the new A19 family chips, which are manufactured on TSMC’s advanced 3nm or even 2nm manufacturing process. As is Apple’s usual practice, the standard models (iPhone 17 and 17 Air) will be equipped with the A19 chip, and the Pro models (17 Pro and Pro Max) with the more powerful A19 Pro version.
Given that the artificial intelligence capabilities on the phone itself (Apple Intelligence) are becoming more important by the day, upgrading the RAM is a must. Rumors suggest that the iPhone 17 Pro, Pro Max, and even the Air model will be equipped with 12GB of RAM, a big improvement over the 8GB in the iPhone 16 generation. The RAM status of the standard iPhone 17 model is still unknown; some reports point to 12GB, while others believe that this model will remain at 8GB to create another point of difference with the more expensive models.
Advanced cooling: Vapor Chamber thermal system
To control the heat generated by the more powerful chips and heavy and continuous AI processing, all iPhone 17 models may be equipped with an advanced vapor chamber cooling system for the first time.
Connectivity improvements that we are going to see in this new generation:
- Wi-Fi 7: The Pro models are expected to support the Wi-Fi 7 standard, which brings higher speeds, lower latency, and more stable connections. Some reports also say that all models will be equipped with Apple’s own Wi-Fi 7 chip.
- Apple’s own modem: The iPhone 17 Air/Slim model is likely to serve as a testbed for Apple’s own 5G modem (codenamed C1), while the rest of the models may still use Qualcomm modems. Apple’s modem will reportedly not support the fastest 5G standard, mmWave.
These hardware upgrades, especially in the RAM and cooling department, aren’t just for general performance. They’re essential prerequisites for Apple’s AI software dreams. The iPhone 17 hardware will be specifically designed to support the computing needs of the next generation of iOS and Apple Intelligence.
iPhone 17 Battery Rumors: A Battle Between Beauty and Power!
The battery story for the iPhone 17 series is very interesting, and it seems like Apple has gone two completely different paths; on the one hand, focusing on maximum power, and on the other, sacrificing capacity for an aesthetic goal. - iPhone 17 Pro Max: This model is set to be the charging champion. Rumors point to a significant increase in battery capacity to around 5,000 mAh, which will fit into a slightly thicker body. This makes it the best option for power users and those looking for the longest possible battery life.
- iPhone 17 Air/Slim: This model has the biggest battery concerns. Its ultra-thin design severely limits internal space, and rumors estimate its battery capacity to be “less than 3,000 mAh.” This is much lower than the other models, and raises serious doubts about whether it will be able to last a full day of work.
Apple is looking at technological solutions to address the small battery challenge in the Air/Slim model:
B New battery technology: Apple is reportedly exploring the use of new silicon-anode or silicon-carbon batteries that have higher energy density and can provide more capacity in a smaller space. - Software optimization: New features in iOS 26, such as Adaptive Power Mode, will play a vital role in managing power consumption and increasing charging performance for this model.
- Faster charging: The iPhone 17 series may support faster 25W wireless charging with third-party chargers that use the Qi2 standard, which would be an improvement over the current 15W limit.
Battery strategy has become more of a tool for segmenting users this generation than ever before. The Pro Max model, with its focus on endurance, will be the undisputed choice for power users. In contrast, the Air/Slim model offers a straightforward trade-off: sacrificing charging performance to achieve an aesthetic goal.
iPhone 17 Series Release Date and Price Rumors
Ultimately, the success of the iPhone 17 will depend on three key things: launch date, pricing, and how it competes in an increasingly crowded market. As per Apple’s tradition, we expect the iPhone 17 series to be unveiled in early to mid-September 2025. Pre-orders will begin immediately after the event, with global availability expected by the end of September. Reputable analyst Mark Germann has suggested the week ending September 8 as the most likely time for the event.
Prices are going up, there’s no way around it!
There are many reports that the iPhone 17 series will be more expensive. There are two main reasons for this price increase: the higher cost of new components and redesigned designs, and the potential impact of US trade tariffs on products made in China. Apple’s strategy is to focus on new features and design to justify the price tag and avoid a backlash from customers, rather than blaming tariffs. To keep costs down, Apple is pushing suppliers like Samsung and LG to cut prices on components like OLED panels.
Competitive Outlook: iPhone 17 vs. Galaxy S25
The 2025 market will see a direct and interesting competition between the iPhone 17 series and Samsung’s Galaxy S25 series. The most interesting battle in the new ultra-thin category will be between the iPhone 17 Air/Slim and the Galaxy S25 Edge. In this competition, Samsung seems to have a key advantage; the Galaxy S25 Slim will come with a dual-camera system and a larger battery, while the iPhone 17 Air will be an almost purely aesthetic choice with a single camera and a smaller battery.
With the global smartphone market forecast to be flat in 2025, introducing a new, high-risk product like the Air/Slim is a big gamble for Apple. This expensive model, with significant performance compromises, will have to sell solely on the strength of its design appeal and the strength of the Apple brand. Its success or failure will be a serious test of Apple’s ability to create a new product category, and could end up like the iPhone Mini or Plus that failed to connect with the market.
In short, the iPhone 17 series is much more than a simple annual update; this generation is a strategic turning point for Apple. The introduction of the Air/Slim design, the widespread adoption of 120Hz ProMotion displays, the intense segmentation of the market through camera hardware, and internal AI-based upgrades all point to a company that is fundamentally rethinking its product strategy and value proposition. While many of these changes sound revolutionary on paper, their ultimate success will depend on execution, pricing, and consumer acceptance of this new, highly segmented landscape. The iPhone 17 is not just a phone for 2025, but a blueprint for Apple’s strategy for the next decade. The company’s choices this generation, especially with the Air/Slim model, will determine the future direction of the world’s most iconic smartphone.
