In a bold departure from tradition, Apple’s unannounced iPhone 17 series is already generating significant buzz in the tech world, with leaks suggesting a dramatic overhaul of the company’s smartphone lineup. Most notably, industry insiders report the potential retirement of the Plus model in favour of a new, sleeker “iPhone 17 Air” variant.
According to Jeff Pu, an analyst at Haitong International Tech Research, the Pro models are set to receive substantial camera upgrades. “The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max will feature a 48-megapixel telephoto camera,” Pu reports, marking a significant jump from the current 12-megapixel system. The front-facing camera, however, is expected to maintain its 12-megapixel configuration.
Key Highlights of iPhone 17 Series:
• Apple plans to discontinue the Plus model, introducing the sleeker iPhone 17 Air
• Significant camera and performance upgrades coming to Pro models
• A new unified control button might replace separate volume and Action buttons
• Enhanced AI capabilities expected across the lineup
Camera Innovations:
• Pro Models to Feature:
– 48-megapixel telephoto camera (up from current 12-megapixel)
– Front camera likely to remain at 12-megapixel
– Smaller Dynamic Island on Pro Max variant
– “Metalens” technology for compact Face ID components
Performance Boost:
• RAM Upgrade:
– 12GB RAM in Pro models (50% increase from current 8GB)
– Expected improvements in multitasking capabilities
– A19 chip rumoured for base models
Design Resolution:
• iPhone 17 Air:
– 6.6-inch display
– “Slimmest design language in the Apple-verse”
– Replacing the Plus model in the lineup
– Potential game-changer in Apple’s portfolio
Smart Features:
• Advanced AI Integration:
– Revamped Siri functionality
– ChatGPT integration
– Enhanced artificial intelligence capabilities
– Apple Intelligence features expected to be fully mature by launch
Innovative Controls:
• New Unified Button:
– Combines Action button and volume control functions
– Streamlined design approach
– Potential implementation across all iPhone 17 models
Difference between iPhone 16 series and iPhone 17 series
According to analyst Jeff Pu from Haitong International Tech Research, these developments represent “a significant upgrade from the current iPhone 16 Pro.” The anticipation surrounding these features is so strong that it might impact iPhone 16 sales, as consumers might wait for the more advanced 2025 models.
This strategy marks a pivotal moment in Apple’s smartphone evolution, potentially reshaping the premium smartphone market. The introduction of the Air model, combined with significant technological advances, suggests Apple is preparing for one of its most ambitious product cycles yet.
Note: All specifications and features are based on current rumours and analyst reports, subject to change before the official 2025 launch.