iPhone 17: Rumors, Features, and Launch Details

Tech enthusiasts have begun discussing and anticipating what could be in store when the 2025 iPhone finally debuts, from speculation over its specifications to rumors about an Air model. Here’s everything we know so far.

iPhone rumors tend to spread quickly, and it’s no secret why. As one of the world’s most beloved and revolutionary tech devices, its existence draws immense interest every time an update rolls out – only compounded by Apple’s desire for secrecy that intensifies anticipation and speculation!

Apple unveiled the iPhone 16 earlier this month and quickly began leaking rumors and leaks about an imminent iPhone 17. Although these early tidbits may be fascinating, please keep an open mind; plans could change any moment before Apple makes official announcements regarding 2025 flagship offerings! We’ll keep you posted as more becomes known!

Release Date

Apple almost always unveils its new iPhone lineup in September, often on a Tuesday during the second week of the month. Following this pattern, Apple will likely announce the iPhone 17 on or around September 9, 2025.

Here’s a look at the announcement dates for recent iPhone models:

• iPhone 16: September 20, 2024
• iPhone 15: September 12, 2023
• iPhone 14: September 7, 2022
• iPhone 13: September 14, 2021
• iPhone 12: October 13, 2020 (delayed due to COVID-19)
• iPhone 11: September 20, 2019

Historically, iPhone preorders begin on the Friday following the announcement, with the devices typically shipping a week later. However, certain models may experience slight shipping delays due to production challenges.

Pricing

While there’s no official word yet on whether the iPhone 17 lineup will match the pricing of the iPhone 16 series, one intriguing rumor from a popular Weibo leaker suggests significant changes. According to this leak, the “Plus” model may be replaced by a new “Slim” model priced higher than the Pro Max, despite having different hardware specs like a less powerful processor and RAM.

Here’s the rumored pricing breakdown for the iPhone 17 lineup:

• iPhone 17: 6.27-inch LTPO display, A19 chip, 8GB RAM – $799
• iPhone 17 Pro: 6.27-inch LTPO display, A19 Pro chip, 12GB RAM – $1,099
• iPhone 17 Pro Max: 6.86-inch LTPO display, A19 Pro chip, 12GB RAM – $1,199
• iPhone 17 Slim: 6.65-inch LTPO display, A19 chip, 8GB RAM – $1,299

If these rumors hold true, the iPhone lineup would see a significant price increase, with the Pro model jumping by $100 and the new Slim model commanding a premium of $100 over the Pro Max.

What Colors Could the iPhone 17 Come In?

Apple hasn’t revealed anything yet about the color options for the iPhone 17 lineup, but we can look at past trends to make some predictions.

Current iPhone 16 Colors

The iPhone 16 comes in five vibrant hues: Ultramarine, Teal, Pink, White, and Black – each offering bold yet classic options to appeal to different audiences.

In contrast, the iPhone 16 Pro models feature more premium finishes, including Desert Titanium, Natural Titanium, White Titanium, and Black Titanium, with each metallic hue emulating Apple’s trademark gold and space gray finishes from previous years.

Could Purple Make a Comeback?

Rumors prior to Apple’s iPhone 16 launch hinted at a purple variant; unfortunately, it did not make the final lineup. Given Apple’s history of offering unique colors like their purple iPhone 14, we may see this fan-favorite hue again for their iPhone 17 in 2025.

What to Expect for 2025

Apple is well known for using its Pro lineup to showcase exclusive, sophisticated finishes while providing a diverse, colorful palette in its standard models. We expect the iPhone 17 will follow this tradition and feature some exciting, eye-catching shades along with timeless classics; hopefully, rumors and leaks closer to release will give us more clarity of what to expect.

Will the iPhone 17 Slim Be the Next Big Thing?

Analysts are buzzing about the possibility of Apple replacing the existing “Plus” model with a new “Slim” variant. This model is rumored to feature a larger screen size, an ultra-thin body, and a design-first approach. The latest updates confirmed the Slim model would introduce a centered rear camera and a smaller Dynamic Island.

Could the Slim Model Be the “iPhone Air”?

In August 2024, The Apple has shared a news that this slim iPhone might be branded as the iPhone Air—a name that aligns with Apple’s minimalist, design-focused product line. Unlike the Pro Max, the iPhone Air wouldn’t be the most expensive option in the lineup. Instead, it would serve as a mid-priced model, prioritizing aesthetics and portability over raw performance, similar to the philosophy behind the MacBook Air.

Where Would It Fit in the Lineup?

While some speculate that Apple is planning an even higher-end model above the Pro Max, the rumored iPhone Air (or Slim) would likely target users who value sleek design and lightweight portability over top-tier specs, carving out its own niche in the lineup.

Cameras, Display Upgrades, and Design Changes

The iPhone 17 lineup is shaping up to introduce several exciting features and design updates, according to recent leaks and rumors.

Upgraded Front Camera and Always-On Display

Rumor has it that all iPhone 17 models may come equipped with a 24MP front-facing camera for greater selfie-taking capability and video-calling experiences. Furthermore, an always-on display formerly exclusive to Pro models may make its way onto non-Pro devices as well.

There’s also speculation that Apple’s 120Hz adaptive refresh rate technology, ProMotion, will finally become available on non-Pro devices. Since LTPO technology powers both ProMotion and always-on displays, expanding this feature would seem to make sense; if true, this would mark the first time ProMotion had ever been offered on a non-Pro iPhone.

New Camera Bump Design

Rumors suggest the iPhone 17 will feature a redesigned camera bump, with a wide, rectangular raised area that spans the back of the phone. This design is reminiscent of Google’s Pixel line and appears to be a bold departure from Apple’s traditional camera layouts. A leaked image of an aluminum frame (believed to be from an iPhone 17 model) reveals that the bump will be substantial in size, possibly accommodating advanced camera tech.

Improved Glass and Aluminum Build

Apple is reportedly collaborating with Corning to develop a new type of anti-glare, scratch-resistant glass for the iPhone 17 series, promising improved durability and visibility. Unlike the current Pro models, which feature titanium or steel, the entire iPhone 17 lineup is expected to have aluminum frames and glass bodies, making them lightweight while maintaining premium aesthetics.