iPhone 17: Apple’s Sleekest Model Yet and What to Expect from the Upcoming Hardware Event
Apple typically reveals its new hardware in the fall, and this year seems to be no exception. The event is scheduled for September 9, where the iPhone 17 series is expected to make its debut, along with updates for the Apple Watch and AirPods.
As is tradition, a flurry of rumors abound, including larger displays and improved cameras for the iPhone 17 models, alongside potential announcements of a super-slim iPhone Air to replace the Plus variant. Additionally, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman suggests that this will kick off three consecutive years of notable iPhone redesigns, leading up to a foldable iPhone anticipated in 2026.
iPhone 17, 17 Pro, and 17 Pro Max
The iPhone 17 is expected to undergo a significant redesign, aligning it more closely with the Pro models. It may feature a slightly larger 6.3-inch display, a 0.2-inch bump from the iPhone 16, alongside a 120Hz refresh rate, a significant enhancement over the current 60Hz. Moreover, it’s rumored to have a 24-megapixel front camera.
New color options could include shades like purple and green.
Rumors suggest that the Pro’s improvements will be made evident on the rear, with conceptual designs indicating that the three rear cameras may be arranged in a rectangular formation across the width of the device. The flash, light sensor, and microphone are expected to be located on the far right, while the Apple logo might be centered in line with the MagSafe charger for a more streamlined aesthetic.
Interestingly, the iPhone 17 Pro could shift to a different material, potentially replacing the titanium band around the screen with aluminum. This modification might allow Apple to reduce production costs while providing a lighter design.
The iPhone 17 Pro Max is likely to see limited changes, with the most notable adjustment being a slightly more robust body to accommodate a larger battery—a significant advantage.
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According to leaker Instant Digital, the expected pricing for the iPhone 17 is around $800, with the Pro Max priced at approximately $1,250. New colors for the Pro models might also include dark blue and copper.
The Pro model is anticipated to be around $1,050. However, recent leaks indicate that storage options may be reduced compared to the 16 Pro, possibly eliminating the 128GB variant and offering only three choices: 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB, down from the usual four.
While the new iPhones are expected to dominate, Apple may also surprise with new phone cases. A leak surfaced three weeks prior to the event showcasing “TechWoven” cases for the iPhone Pro 17, crafted from higher-quality woven materials as opposed to the now-discontinued “FineWoven” fabric cases launched in 2023. These cases may include a crossbody strap.
iPhone Air
The most notable rumor suggests that Apple could launch its thinnest device yet, the iPhone Air, which may replace the iPhone Plus.
This model is rumored to have a thickness of 5.5 mm, making it about 0.08 inches thinner than current iPhones, with a 6.6-inch display.
This move seems to be Apple’s answer to the growing trend of thinner smartphones, following brands like Samsung and Huawei. The iPhone Air could potentially surpass the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge, which measures 5.8 mm in thickness. Furthermore, it might be the precursor to Apple’s long-anticipated foldable phone, slated for a September 2026 launch.
While the slim profile is visually attractive, it may involve some compromises. Based on renders, the Air is likely to have just one rear camera lens, unlike the Plus model’s two. Discussions also hint that space constraints might preclude the addition of a bottom speaker, leaving only the top front earpiece as the sole audio source.
Reports suggest a price of $950 for the device, with color options including black, silver, and light gold.
Apple Watch Series 11, Ultra 3, and SE 3
After a two-year break, multiple rumors have surfaced about the Apple Watch Ultra 3, hinting at major upgrades. These could include faster charging capabilities, 5G connectivity, and satellite features. Additionally, a larger display is rumored for this iteration.
Among the most exciting prospective features for both the Ultra 3 and Series 11 is the potential for blood pressure monitoring. This could notify users if their blood pressure levels are too high or low. Apple is also exploring the addition of a sleep apnea monitoring capability. However, according to Bloomberg’s Gurman, these features may be postponed for further refinement.
Apple recently announced an updated blood oxygen feature rolling out to select Series 8, 10, and Ultra models, which suggests the Ultra 3 may also gain this functionality, although its availability in watchOS 26 was not specifically included in the announcement.
The third-generation Apple Watch SE is not expected to bring major updates, aside from a possibly larger display. Reports continue to indicate the potential introduction of a plastic model, according to Gurman.
The anticipated prices for the watches are $250 for the Apple Watch SE 3, $400 for the Series 11, and $800 for the Ultra 3.
AirPods Pro 3
Following the release of the AirPods Pro 2 in 2022, an upgrade is on the horizon, and Apple seems ready to deliver. Speculation suggests that the AirPods Pro 3 will feature a revamped design, touch-sensitive controls, more compact earbuds, and a sleeker case. Furthermore, the upcoming H3 chip is expected to enhance active noise cancellation and adaptive audio performance.
This story has been updated to reflect the latest rumors.
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