Leaked 3D renders reveal the iPhone 17 Pro Max and iPhone 17 Air, showing a bold new design that resembles Google Pixel cameras.
3D-printed models based on CAD renders showcase the iPhone 17 Air and iPhone 17 Pro Max. Photo: Majin Bu/X
Apple fans can now get their first look at the iPhone 17 Pro Max and iPhone 17 Air, thanks to recently leaked 3D-printed models based on CAD designs.
As leaks about the iPhone 17 series continue to surface, it appears Apple is taking inspiration from Google’s camera design. Reports suggest that at least three models - iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, and iPhone 17 Air - could feature a redesigned rear camera module similar to the Google Pixel 9.
A bold new camera design
According to the leaks, the iPhone 17 Air will feature a slim camera module with just a single lens, while the iPhone 17 Pro Max will sport a significantly larger camera system.
The triple-lens setup remains, but the flash has been repositioned to the far edge of the camera module, instead of being centrally placed as in previous iPhone models.
Despite its resemblance to the Google Pixel lineup, the iPhone 17 Pro Max and 17 Air still retain Apple’s signature design language. However, this radical shift has sparked mixed reactions. Some Apple fans welcome the fresh design, arguing that Apple’s iPhones have become repetitive over the years, while others worry that a Pixel-like design could dilute Apple’s brand identity.
The authenticity of these leaked designs remains a topic of debate. While some industry sources claim these 3D prints accurately reflect the final design, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman disputes the credibility of the CAD drawings, suggesting they could be based on misleading prototype information.
A separate leak from another reputable source, however, insists that they have seen the iPhone 17 Air in development, and that this design has indeed been selected for production. If this proves true, Apple is finally breaking free from the repetitive iPhone designs of recent years.
What else is new for iPhone 17 Pro?
Leaked 3D-printed model of the iPhone 17 Air. Photo: Majin Bu
The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max are expected to retain the 6.3-inch and 6.9-inch displays, which were recently adjusted for the iPhone 16 lineup.
However, according to The Information, Apple is planning major design changes beyond just the display. These include:
Switching from titanium to aluminum for the frame A back panel combining aluminum and glass, rather than full glass A new rectangular camera module
A recently unverified rumor suggests that the iPhone 17 Pro models may introduce a new display technology called Low-Dielectric TEE, which could reduce signal interference and improve energy efficiency, potentially extending battery life.
Additionally, Jeff Pu, a tech analyst, claims that the iPhone 17 Pro Max will feature a significantly smaller Dynamic Island, thanks to Apple’s metalens technology. This innovation shrinks the Face ID system while maintaining performance, effectively freeing up more screen space.
The iPhone 17 Pro Max is also rumored to feature:
The new A19 Pro chip Apple-designed Wi-Fi 7 chip 12GB RAM for improved multitasking Upgraded 48MP telephoto camera, replacing the 12MP sensor in iPhone 16 Pro Max
Apple’s 2025 iPhone lineup is expected to launch in September, following its traditional release cycle. The iPhone 17 series is rumored to include four models: iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, and the ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air.