Apple’s upcoming iPhone 17 Pro series is expected to undergo a major design overhaul, and newly leaked images allegedly from the production line offer a first look at these changes.

According to recent leaks, the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max may feature a horizontal camera bar, similar to Google’s Pixel series. This module spans across the back of the device, with three cameras arranged in a triangular formation on the left and the flash, microphone, and LiDAR sensor positioned on the right.

The purpose behind this redesign remains unclear, but the leak suggests that Apple could be optimizing internal space for enhanced functionality.

New frame materials and potential shift back to aluminum

On March 12, the reliable tipster Majin Bu shared images on X (formerly Twitter) depicting CNC-machined frames, potentially made of aluminum or titanium, for the iPhone 17 Pro Max.

These components align with previous rumors about Apple’s planned structural changes.

The leaked images showcase large circular cutouts, which may correspond to internal components such as the MagSafe coil or battery.

The precisely machined aluminum or titanium frame appears ready for further processing, indicating a shift in material choices.

Previously, reports suggested that Apple might revert to using aluminum for the iPhone 17 Pro instead of continuing with titanium, as seen on the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro.

This design approach would involve a combination of glass and aluminum, enhancing durability while maintaining wireless charging capabilities.

Reverse wireless charging and battery improvements

According to industry sources, Apple is testing a 7.5W reverse wireless charging feature for the iPhone 17 Pro. If implemented, this would allow the device to wirelessly charge other Apple products, such as AirPods and Apple Watch.

Currently, iPhones can only provide 4.5W of power to these accessories through a USB-C cable, with no support for wireless reverse charging. If these rumors hold true, the iPhone 17 Pro Max could be the first Apple device to introduce this long-awaited feature.

Additionally, reports indicate that the iPhone 17 Pro Max's body thickness will increase to 8.725mm, up from 8.25mm on the iPhone 16 Pro Max. This change suggests Apple may be accommodating a larger battery to enhance overall battery life.

A unified camera design across models

The redesigned horizontal camera module will reportedly also appear on the iPhone 17 Air, a thinner model expected to replace the current iPhone Plus lineup. However, the iPhone 17 Air will feature a single-lens camera instead of the triple-camera setup seen on the Pro models.

Meanwhile, the standard iPhone 17 is expected to retain the vertical camera layout from the iPhone 16 series, reinforcing a clear distinction between Apple’s Pro and non-Pro models.

Advanced cooling technology for iPhone 17 Pro models

A recent leak from Instant Digital, a Chinese technology insider, claims that the iPhone 17 Pro models will feature an advanced vapor chamber cooling system to improve heat dissipation.

This technology is already common in high-end Android smartphones and allows for more efficient thermal management by distributing heat over a wider surface area. This system is particularly beneficial for maintaining performance in compact, high-performance devices.

However, the leak suggests that only the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max, which are expected to use Apple's new A19 Pro chip, will benefit from this cooling system.

Expected iPhone 17 lineup and launch timeline

As per Apple's usual release cycle, the iPhone 17 lineup is expected to launch in September 2025. The product lineup will likely include:

iPhone 17 standard model

iPhone 17 Pro

iPhone 17 Pro Max

iPhone 17 Air (a thinner model replacing the Plus series)

With a redesigned camera, new materials, reverse wireless charging, and an advanced cooling system, the iPhone 17 Pro Max could mark one of the most significant changes in Apple’s smartphone history.

Hai Phong