Apple announces updates to its smartphone lineup every autumn, but the company often struggles to keep the details under wraps. Ahead of the official unveiling of the iPhone 17, there have already been hints about what to expect. Here’s a rundown of what we know and anticipate.
When will the iPhone 17 series be announced?
Most years, Apple unveils its flagship smartphones in September. While specific dates are still pending, historical patterns suggest that the launch event for the iPhone 17 models will likely take place sometime in September.
What will the new iPhone 17 lineup include?
According to design leaks, Apple is working on an ultra-thin smartphone, possibly named the iPhone 17 Air to align with Apple’s lightweight laptop branding. Renowned Apple insider Mark Gurman from Bloomberg reported in January that the iPhone 17 Air is expected to feature a basic A19 chip and a single camera lens. It may also incorporate Apple’s new in-house modem introduced with the iPhone 16e in February.
Each new iPhone lineup typically includes a base model, with the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro expected to be part of the upcoming series. Additionally, Apple is likely to continue its trend of offering an iPhone Pro Max variant with a larger screen and improved battery life.
The rumored iPhone 17 Air is speculated to replace a potential iPhone 17 Plus. Reports suggest that despite initial plans to eliminate the charging port and rely solely on wireless connectivity, Apple has decided to retain the port. The iPhone 17 Air is said to feature a 6.6-inch screen, include the Dynamic Island and Camera Control button, and be priced around $900.
What will iOS 19 be like?
Speculation surrounding iOS 19 indicates significant changes, with a focus on a visual overhaul. Apple analyst Jon Prosser and reports from Bloomberg suggest that the upcoming software update will introduce design changes without compromising usability. The UI is expected to borrow elements from visionOS, featuring home screen icons with a corner radius of around 30 and rounded sliders in Control Center.
Prosser’s leaks also suggest enhancements to app interfaces like Music, with redesigned tab views and more fluid animations. The Messages app in iOS 19 is rumored to have a search box located at the bottom, below chat threads. Additionally, a new camera feature inspired by the Samsung Galaxy S4 may allow simultaneous recording with front and rear cameras, exclusive to the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max.
While details about Apple’s AI advancements remain scarce, it is anticipated that Apple will continue to enhance its Apple Intelligence suite. Updates to Siri leveraging AI tools are expected to be integrated by the time the iPhone 17 series launches.
Apple typically unveils more about its software plans at the Worldwide Developers Conference, with WWDC 2025 likely scheduled for early June. Stay tuned for more updates on the operating system this summer.
Update, March 17, 2025, 2PM ET: Added information about the rumored price and features of the iPhone 17 Air.
Update, April 11, 2025, 3:45PM ET: Included details from Front Page Tech’s latest video revealing insights from a leaked iOS 19 build.