An image surfacing from what appears to be an assembly line dedicated to Apple’s yet-to-be-released devices has caught the eye of many. This image, purportedly showing CNC-machined parts, aligns closely with the circulating rumors of a major design overhaul for the iPhone 17 Pro models. The most striking feature suggested by this leak is a horizontal camera bar, reminiscent of Google’s Pixel series, poised to stretch across the width of the device’s back. This new setup is expected to house a sophisticated triangular triple-camera array on one side, with essential components like the flash, microphone, and a LiDAR sensor on the other.
Renowned leaker Majin Bu shared this intriguing snapshot on X (formerly Twitter), igniting discussions about the materials involved—possibly a shift from titanium back to aluminum, which was used in older models before the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro’s titanium frames.
Redesigning Durability and Functionality
The iPhone 17 Pro models might embrace a half-glass, half-aluminum body, merging durability with aesthetic finesse. Such a design would not only enhance the phone’s resistance to breakages but also maintain the convenience of wireless charging. Speculation about the glass section surrounding the Apple logo suggests it could integrate seamlessly into the metal chassis, potentially housing innovative features like new wireless reverse charging capabilities.
Apple’s exploration of a 7.5W reverse wireless charging feature could allow the iPhone 17 Pro to power other devices such as AirPods and the Apple Watch, a significant upgrade from the current 4.5W output provided over USB-C.
Anticipations for a Thicker Design
The iPhone 17 Pro Max may see an increase in body thickness to 8.725mm from the 8.25mm of its predecessor, possibly to accommodate a larger battery, enhancing the device’s longevity and user experience.
Expanding the Horizon: The New iPhone 17 Air
The redesign extends beyond the Pro models. The new iPhone 17 Air, set to replace the Plus variant, is rumored to sport a similar horizontal camera bar but will house a single camera lens. This differentiation ensures that Apple’s range caters to both premium and standard markets, maintaining a diverse lineup that appeals to a broad spectrum of consumers.
As the expected unveiling in September approaches, anticipation builds around how these innovations will transform user experience. Apple continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in smartphone technology, emphasizing both form and functionality in its upcoming releases. The iPhone 17 Pro series promises to be a pivotal moment in mobile technology, heralding a new era of design and capability that could once again position Apple at the forefront of the industry.
