Apple iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max: Latest Leaks and Design Changes

The much-anticipated iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max are expected to hit the market in September, and as we approach the release date, several rumors and leaks have emerged, offering a glimpse into their potential designs and features. Among the most notable changes is a complete overhaul of the rear camera panel and significant improvements in battery life, particularly for the larger iPhone 17 Pro Max.

Let’s dive into the details of the latest leaks surrounding these two upcoming flagship models, including design updates, battery improvements, and camera innovations.

Major Battery Improvements for iPhone 17 Pro Max

One of the most exciting changes for the iPhone 17 Pro Max is its rumored battery upgrade. According to a report by Ryan Christoffel at 9to5Mac, the current iPhone 16 Pro Max already boasts impressive battery life, offering up to 33 hours of video playback. This is an improvement from the 29 hours seen in the iPhone 15 Pro Max. However, this year, the battery life is expected to go even further.

The iPhone 17 Pro Max is rumored to be slightly thicker than its predecessor, and while this increase in thickness has sparked speculation, it seems likely that Apple intends to use this extra space for a larger battery. This potential upgrade could translate into even longer usage times, giving users more screen-on time and enhanced longevity, something Apple fans have been eagerly waiting for.

Redesigned Camera Panel for a Sleeker Look

Moving to the camera panel, the iPhone 17 Pro will reportedly feature a complete redesign. The current iPhone camera module is characterized by a squarish raised area on the top left corner of the device. However, new leaks suggest that the panel could stretch across the width of the phone, giving the iPhone 17 a cleaner, more uniform look.

First Render

The first render, provided by a 3D designer named kanedacane, shows the back of the iPhone 17 Pro in a consistent color with the rest of the phone. Unlike previous renders, where the camera panel had a contrasting color, this new design is more cohesive, offering a smooth rise from the body of the iPhone. The three lenses, flash, microphone, and LiDAR sensor are neatly arranged at the far-right end of the panel, forming a tidy column.

While this new camera design provides a sleeker aesthetic, the lenses still protrude from the surface of the panel, much like current iPhone models. One advantage of this new design is that the camera bar spans the full width of the phone, reducing the likelihood of the device rattling when placed on a flat surface, a common issue with the corner-mounted cameras seen on previous models.

Second Render

The second render, created by 4RMD, presents a more stylized concept for the iPhone 17 Pro, featuring a contrasting color for the camera panel, similar to earlier designs. This particular render also showcases a periscope camera, which suggests that the iPhone 17 Pro could incorporate a 48-megapixel sensor for better zoom and telephoto capabilities.

While the concept is visually appealing, it deviates from Gurman’s report, which suggested that the camera panel would share the same color as the rest of the back of the phone. Furthermore, the periscope camera depicted in this render is different from the tetraprism telephoto lens Apple currently uses. Although a periscope camera upgrade is plausible, it’s likely that Apple’s design will maintain a more consistent look with previous lenses.

The Return of Touch ID?

Another intriguing feature suggested in the 4RMD concept render is the potential return of Touch ID. However, there is little indication from reliable sources that Apple will reintroduce this feature this year. Instead, it is more likely that the iPhone 17 Pro will continue to rely on Face ID, maintaining the sleek, edge-to-edge design of the display.

What to Expect from the iPhone 17 Pro Series

While the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max may not look drastically different from their predecessors, the incremental design changes and enhanced performance features are shaping up to make these phones a major upgrade.

• iPhone 17 Pro Max: With a thicker body, the Pro Max variant is expected to sport a larger battery and potentially better performance in terms of battery life, making it a highly attractive option for those who prioritize endurance.

• Camera Design: The change from a corner camera module to a full-width panel could mark a significant shift in iPhone design philosophy, offering a sleeker appearance and addressing previous concerns about stability when placed on flat surfaces.

• Possible Periscope Camera and New Sensors: The 48-megapixel periscope camera might make its debut in the iPhone 17 Pro, improving telephoto capabilities for mobile photographers. However, the final design will likely differ from the current concept renders.

The iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max are shaping up to be impressive devices, with meaningful upgrades to their battery life and camera design. While the exact details are still subject to change as the official release date draws closer, these leaks offer exciting insights into what we can expect. Whether it’s the potential for a larger battery, a reimagined camera panel, or an enhanced telephoto lens, Apple seems to be focusing on making their flagship iPhones more powerful and user-friendly than ever before.

We’ll have to wait until the official unveiling to see which of these rumors prove true, but it’s clear that the iPhone 17 series will be a device to watch.