Apple iPhone 17 Series: Everything We Know So Far About the Major Redesign

Apple’s iPhone 17 lineup is expected to be one of the biggest shakeups in years, both visually and internally. Thanks to several credible leaks, we now have a clearer picture of the changes coming to all four models: the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max. This information is also featured on 9to9trends YouTube, so don’t forget to check it out.

From slimmer bezels and updated materials to powerful new camera hardware and AI-powered features, the iPhone 17 family is shaping up to be a major leap forward. Here’s a detailed breakdown of all the major changes expected in Apple’s upcoming flagship lineup.

A New Display Experience: Slimmer Bezels for All

According to renowned leaker Digital Chat Station on Weibo, one of the most visible changes this year is the implementation of slimmer bezels across the entire iPhone 17 range. This isn’t limited to the high-end Pro models anymore. For the first time, even the base iPhone 17 will reportedly benefit from the improved screen-to-body ratio.

Adding to this visual upgrade, the standard iPhone 17 is said to adopt a 6.3-inch display, matching the current size of the iPhone 16 Pro. It’s a significant step up in screen real estate, and it could make the entry-level model more appealing to users who want a larger display without jumping to the Pro line.

A New Dynamic Island? Possibly for All Models

One of the more interesting rumors suggests that Apple may be working on a redesigned Dynamic Island user interface. While this leak hasn’t been fully confirmed, it originates from the same source that revealed potential changes to the Pro Max’s Dynamic Island earlier this year. That version is said to be smaller, implying that the redesign may be linked to a shift in hardware layout. However, this leak is somewhat surprising, given the source’s focus on hardware rather than software. That said, if the hardware design is evolving, software tweaks may naturally follow.

Pro Models Could Switch to Aluminum Frames

Since 2017, Apple’s top-tier iPhones have featured either stainless steel or, more recently, titanium frames. But this could be changing in 2025. Another trusted source, Instant Digital, has reported that the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max will instead feature aluminum frames paired with a glass rear panel.

This material switch could offer multiple benefits. Aluminum is significantly lighter than both steel and titanium, which could lead to more comfortable daily use. It’s also potentially more cost-effective to manufacture, helping Apple manage production costs amid rising component prices.

The aluminum frames are rumored to be ultra-thin, contributing to the much-hyped edge-to-edge display look. New renders from Magin Buu support these claims, showing design details such as a relocated Apple logo and a redesigned MagSafe magnet ring. These changes are tailored to make the logo visible even through clear cases.

Bigger, Bolder Camera Design

Another notable visual change is coming to the camera bump. It’s expected to grow wider, stretching across the full width of the phone’s back. This wider camera housing could be tied to hardware upgrades, particularly in the Pro models.

Camera and Chip Upgrades: Sharper Than Ever

If you’re into mobile photography, the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max are set to deliver serious upgrades. Leaks point to a 48MP telephoto lens and a 24MP front-facing selfie camera, both of which will be powered by the upcoming A19 Pro chip. The telephoto lens is a major step forward, as it promises better zoom capabilities and improved image clarity. On the front, the bump to 24MP suggests better low-light selfies and more detailed video calls, especially important as FaceTime and social media video continue to rise in usage.

iPhone 17 Air: Thinner, Lighter, and a New Identity

Among all the new models, the iPhone 17 Air is perhaps the most unique. Previously rumored as the iPhone 17 Slim, this device is reportedly designed to be Apple’s thinnest and lightest iPhone ever. According to respected analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the Air model could be under 5.5mm thick, which is incredibly slim for a modern smartphone. It’s expected to have a minimalist design, with just one rear camera, a bold departure from the multi-lens trend.

Display-wise, the iPhone 17 Air will likely feature a 6.6 to 6.7-inch OLED screen, with a resolution of 1290×2796. This large, high-quality panel should offer excellent color reproduction and brightness. However, thinness comes at a cost. The Air’s battery may be a 2,800 mAh unit, which is relatively small compared to other models in the lineup. That could limit battery life and make power management a critical aspect for users considering this sleek device.

Exclusive Modem and Wi-Fi 7 Across All Models

The iPhone 17 Air could also be the first to feature Apple’s in-house C1 5G modem, which is reportedly exclusive to this model. Apple has been working on reducing its reliance on Qualcomm, and the Air might be the first step in that direction. Meanwhile, Wi-Fi 7 is expected to come to all four models, bringing faster wireless connectivity and more stable performance for heavy-duty online tasks like streaming, gaming, and remote work.

iOS 26: Visual Refresh, Modest AI Gains

The entire iPhone 17 family will debut with iOS 26, which introduces a new “liquid glass” UI overhaul—a sleeker, more fluid design language across the system. On the AI front, upgrades are relatively minor this year. Apple is said to be introducing live call screening, on-device language translation, and enhanced visual search features. These improvements are useful, but more advanced Siri enhancements are reportedly being held back until 2026, possibly aligning with future M-series chips or a deeper AI rollout.

Price Hikes May Be Inevitable

Pricing could be a sticking point for many users this year. With the iPhone 16 starting at $799 and the Pro Max at $1,199, Apple’s new lineup could see a noticeable increase. Leaks suggest that the iPhone 17 Air might replace the Plus model, but with a possible price point that exceeds the $899 iPhone 16 Plus. Some experts predict that the Air could even rival or surpass the Pro Max in pricing, depending on how it’s marketed and positioned.

Launch Timeline: Business as Usual

Despite these changes, Apple is expected to maintain its traditional release cycle. The iPhone 17 lineup will likely be announced in early September 2025, as part of Apple’s annual keynote event.

Conclusion

The iPhone 17 series is shaping up to be one of the most exciting and transformative iPhone launches in recent memory. From design changes and material shifts to camera upgrades and unique new models like the iPhone 17 Air, Apple appears ready to make a bold statement. While some of the leaks are still unconfirmed, the direction is clear: thinner, smarter, and more powerful devices that advance Apple’s hardware philosophy. As always, pricing and battery performance will play a big role in consumer decisions, but for now, all eyes are on Apple’s September event.

Last update on 2025-09-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API