The iPhone 17 series is Apple’s upcoming lineup of smartphones, expected to launch in September 2025. As of August 2025, all available information is based on leaks, rumors, and analyst reports, since Apple has not officially announced the devices. This guide summarizes the key details in a simple, straightforward way, drawing from reliable sources. Expect four models this year, with a new “Air” variant replacing the “Plus” model.
Models
Apple is rumored to introduce four iPhone 17 models:
- iPhone 17: The standard entry-level model.
- iPhone 17 Air (also called iPhone 17 Slim): A thinner, mid-tier option focused on portability.
- iPhone 17 Pro: The premium model with advanced features.
- iPhone 17 Pro Max: The largest and most feature-packed version.
This lineup drops the “Plus” model due to lower demand, positioning the Air as a slimmer alternative.
Release Date
- Announcement: Likely Tuesday, September 9, 2025 (following Apple’s typical pattern after Labor Day).
- Pre-orders: Around September 12, 2025.
- On-sale date: Expected Friday, September 19, 2025.
These dates align with Apple’s annual fall event schedule.
Price
Prices are expected to start similar to the iPhone 16 series, with possible slight increases due to new features or economic factors. Rumored U.S. starting prices (before taxes):
- iPhone 17: $799–$849
- iPhone 17 Air: $979–$1,299 (positioned between standard and Pro)
- iPhone 17 Pro: $999–$1,049
- iPhone 17 Pro Max: $1,199–$1,249
International prices may be higher (e.g., the iPhone 17 Pro is around ₹164,900 in India or AED 5,399 in Dubai). Final prices could rise by $50 across the board due to potential tariffs.
Design
The series emphasizes slimmer profiles and material tweaks for better durability and feel.
- Overall: All models may have thinner bezels and a Camera Control button (like on iPhone 16). Colors could include black, white, silver, gold, blue, green, purple, and a special iridescent or copper-like option.
- iPhone 17: Similar to iPhone 16, with a vertical dual-camera bump.
- iPhone 17 Air: Ultra-thin at 5–6.25 mm (thinnest iPhone ever), aluminum frame, centered single-camera bump, and simplified speaker grilles. It may measure 6.55–6.65 inches across.
- iPhone 17 Pro/Pro Max: Aluminum frames (switch from titanium), half-aluminum/half-glass back for wireless charging, rectangular horizontal camera bump with triangular lenses. The Pro Max could be slightly thicker at 8.7 mm.
Rumors suggest a pill-shaped camera bar across the back for some models and a narrower Dynamic Island using metalens tech for Face ID.
Display
A big upgrade: All models are expected to get 120 Hz ProMotion refresh rates (previously Pro-only) for smoother scrolling and better efficiency via LTPO OLED panels.
- Sizes:
- iPhone 17: 6.1–6.3 inches
- iPhone 17 Air: 6.6–6.7 inches
- iPhone 17 Pro: 6.3 inches
- iPhone 17 Pro Max: 6.9 inches
- Features: Up to 30% brighter panels, potential always-on display for all (though possibly Pro-exclusive). A scratch-resistant anti-reflective coating was rumored but may be canceled. Resolution for Air: Around 1,290 x 2,796 pixels.
Camera
Cameras see incremental upgrades, with a focus on higher resolution and AI enhancements.
- Front Camera: 24-megapixel with six-element lens (up from 12MP) across all models for better selfies and cropping.
- Rear Cameras:
- iPhone 17: Dual setup—48MPwide + 12MP ultra-wide.
- iPhone 17 Air: Single 48MP main camera.
- iPhone 17 Pro/Pro Max: Triple 48MP setup (wide, ultra-wide, telephoto). Pro Max may support 8K video and 5–8x optical zoom. Features like mechanical aperture for adjustable light and dual front/rear video recording.
The Pro models keep the edge with telephoto zoom and advanced video capabilities.
Processor and Performance
- Chipset: A19 Bionic (using TSMC’s 3nm process) for Pro models, offering better speed and efficiency. The standard iPhone 17 and Air may use A18 (from iPhone 16) or A19 variants.
- RAM: 8GB across all for enhanced AI support (Apple Intelligence).
- Cooling: Vapor chamber tech in Pro models (or all) to prevent overheating.
- Other: Wi-Fi 7 support, Apple’s in-house 5G modem (possibly Air-exclusive), and improved AI features.
No 2 nm chips until 2026.
Battery and Charging
- Capacity: Improved overall with Apple-designed batteries. Pro Max: Up to 5,000 mAh (from 4,685 mAh). Air: Smaller at 2,800–3,900 mAh due to thin design.
- Features: Easier-to-replace batteries with new glue tech. Supports Qi 2.2 wireless charging for faster speeds (via MagSafe). Better efficiency from LTPO displays and chips.
Expect all-day battery life, with Pro models leading.
Storage and Software
- Storage Options: Model Options iPhone 17 128GB, 256GB, 512GB iPhone 17 Air 128GB, 256GB, 512GB iPhone 17 Pro 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB; Pro Max 256GB, 512GB, 1TB
- Software: Ships with iOS 26, including expanded Apple Intelligence AI tools like enhanced Siri and photo editing.
Comparison Table
Here’s a quick side-by-side of rumored specs:
| Feature | iPhone 17 | iPhone 17 Air | iPhone 17 Pro | iPhone 17 Pro Max |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.6–6.7″ 120 Hz | 6.3″ 120 Hz | 6.3″ 120Hz | ~7.8 mm |
| Cameras | Dual (48MP + 12MP) | Single (48MP) | Triple (all 48MP) | Triple (all 48MP) |
| Processor | A18/A19 | A19 | A19 | A19 |
| Battery | Standard | 2,800–3,900 mAh | Standard | Up to 5,000 mAh |
| Thickness | ~7.8mm | ~8.25 mm | ~8.7 mm | ~8.7mm |
| Price | $799+ | $979+ | $999+ | $1,199+ |
This series aims for broader access to premium features like high-refresh displays while introducing a slim model for those prioritizing design. Stay tuned for Apple’s official reveal!