Apple is gearing up to launch the iPhone 17 series, which will include the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and a new iPhone 17 Air model. Expected to debut around September 9, 2025, the series may showcase significant design changes, enhanced display sizes, and improved camera setups. The iPhone 17 models are rumored to feature advanced A19 chipsets with increased RAM, while the possibility of eliminating physical SIM cards is being discussed. Pricing is anticipated to remain consistent with the iPhone 16 lineup.
Introducing the iPhone 17 Series: iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Air
Overview
Every year, Apple unveils a new generation of iPhones, and with each launch, the anticipation for the next series begins. Currently, the spotlight is on the iPhone 16 series, which includes the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max. As we look ahead, speculation around the upcoming iPhone 17 models is already buzzing.
Expected Release Date for the iPhone 17
Determining the release date for the iPhone 17 can be both straightforward and complex. Apple has a history of launching new models in the fall, particularly on a Tuesday in mid-September. Yet, this pattern isn’t set in stone; for instance, the iPhone 16 was announced on a Monday. Currently, September 9, 2025, is emerging as a potential launch date, with the iPhone 17 Air rumored to be the first model entering production at Foxconn.
Variants of the iPhone 17 Series
It appears that Apple may not release a direct successor to the iPhone 16 Plus in 2025. Instead, we’re likely to see a new ‘iPhone 17 Slim/Air’ model. In addition, the lineup is expected to include the standard iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max, bringing the total to four distinct variants.
Design Innovations in the iPhone 17
Insider reports hint at significant design transformations for the iPhone 17 series, with some claiming it will feature the “most substantial redesign since the iPhone X.” The iPhone 17 Air/Slim is anticipated to showcase a new camera layout and a sleek profile, measuring only six millimeters thick—much thinner than the current iPhone 16 Pro at 8.25 millimeters. However, such a slim design may come with its own set of compromises.
Display Sizes for iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro
Speculations suggest that the iPhone 17 Air/Slim will sport a 6.6-inch display, positioning it uniquely within the iPhone 17 portfolio. The standard iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro may feature 6.3-inch displays, while the iPhone 17 Pro Max could boast a larger 6.9-inch screen. All models are rumored to include Apple’s Dynamic Island feature, and the Pro variants might offer a dynamic refresh rate of up to 120 Hertz (ProMotion). It’s possible that Apple will eliminate 60 Hertz technology altogether, equipping all models with a 120 Hertz display, including an Always-on display feature.
Moreover, Apple is expected to enhance display durability with the Ceramic Shield, and the Pro models may have an even more robust surface. Excitingly, there are rumors of a new display technology debuting with this series.
Camera Capabilities of the iPhone 17
Rumors indicate a potential rearrangement of the rear camera setup for the iPhone 17. The camera island might shift from the corner to a central position, reminiscent of Google’s Pixel devices. The iPhone 17 Air is expected to feature a single 48-megapixel camera. Additionally, at least one variant in the iPhone 17 lineup may include a mechanical aperture similar to the Huawei Pura P70 Ultra.
Processing Power: Chips in the iPhone 17
The upcoming chipsets for the iPhone 17 series are anticipated to be named A19 and A19 Pro. While much remains unclear about this new generation of chips, it is uncertain whether TSMC will succeed in transitioning to a 2-nanometer manufacturing process in time, or if the A19 SoC will still be based on a 3-nanometer architecture.
Memory Specifications: RAM in the iPhone 17
Early insights suggest that Apple will boost the RAM in the iPhone 17 models. The standard versions are expected to have 8 gigabytes of RAM, while the Pro models might reach 12 gigabytes. For comparison, the iPhone 16 offers 6 gigabytes of RAM, and the iPhone 16 Pro has 8 gigabytes.
Will the iPhone 17 Retain a SIM Card?
Following the trend set by the iPhone 16 in the USA, there are discussions about eliminating the physical SIM card slot for future models, potentially affecting markets like Germany. This shift would mean a complete reliance on eSIM technology.
Anticipated Battery Life of the iPhone 17
Apple improved battery life with the iPhone 16, and similar enhancements are expected for the iPhone 17 series. However, at this time, reliable information regarding battery capacity and performance remains scarce.
Pricing Expectations for the iPhone 17
While the exact pricing for the iPhone 17 is yet to be disclosed, Apple has refrained from increasing prices for recent models. If this trend continues, we can expect pricing to be comparable to the iPhone 16 lineup.
Other Smartphones to Watch in 2025
Note: This article is continually updated based on leaks, analyst insights, editorial assessments, and other rumors, which may be challenging to verify until the official announcement. Until the iPhone 17 series is formally introduced, it’s best to approach this information with a degree of skepticism. Apple typically does not comment on rumors prior to their official product launches.