The next iPhone generation may not be around the corner yet, but initial leaks and dummy models already provide a clear picture of what Apple plans to change with the iPhone 17 – especially with the cameras. For you as a user, this means more megapixels, new camera arrangements, and features that weren't previously possible. Here's an overview of all the known information.
Before you think that dummy models and leaks aren't worth much, they are. Case manufacturers, in particular, get early access to exact dimensions and camera positions. Why? Because it's a competitive advantage for them to be able to offer suitable cases early on. In the past, these models have often been correct. So, the information currently circulating about the iPhone 17 has substance.
Improved front camera on all iPhone 17 models
No matter which iPhone 17 model you're looking at, they're all expected to be equipped with a new 24-megapixel front-facing camera. That's twice the resolution of the current 12-megapixel version. The benefits: sharper selfies, better details, and greater light sensitivity. Quality should be noticeably improved, especially in low-light and video recordings.
iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max: Three lenses with 48 megapixels
With the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max, Apple is integrating three 48-megapixel cameras into one device for the first time:
- A fusion lens as the main camera
- An ultra-wide-angle lens
- A tetraprism telephoto lens
The new ultra-wide-angle lens was already introduced with the iPhone 16 Pro, but the telephoto lens in the iPhone 17 Pro is expected to be the highlight of the 2025 camera upgrade. The higher resolution will allow for even further zooming without losing detail, allowing you to get even closer to your subject without sacrificing quality. There's also potential support for 8K video recording. Previous models only supported 4K. A feature for simultaneous recording with the front and rear cameras is also being discussed – interesting for creators who want to quickly produce content for social media. There are also hints of a mechanical aperture that would allow you to adjust how much light falls on the sensor. Until now, Apple has only used fixed apertures. A variable aperture would enable more flexible depth of field and creative effects.
New camera design with horizontal bar
Apple is expected to introduce a new design for the rear camera on the Pro models. The previous square camera bump will be replaced by a rectangular, horizontal bar. This will run across the back and integrate the three lenses in a triangular arrangement. The flash, microphone, and LiDAR sensor will be moved further to the right in this new layout. Why Apple is making this design change is unknown.
iPhone 17 Air: One lens, super-thin design
According to current information, the iPhone 17 Air will only have one camera on the back – a 48-megapixel fusion lens. The ultra-wide-angle and telephoto lenses will be omitted due to space constraints. Apple is apparently planning an extremely thin device, only 5.5 mm thick. This would make it significantly slimmer than all previous iPhones. The iPhone 17 Air will also have the new horizontal camera bar. However, since there is only one lens, the bar is flatter. The lens is on the left, while the flash and microphone are on the right. 3D photos or videos cannot be taken with just one camera – unless Apple finds a new technical solution. However, that doesn't currently look likely.
iPhone 17: Solid base without major camera innovations
There are currently no major changes to the rear camera for the standard iPhone 17 model. The camera unit is expected to remain the same as the iPhone 16: two vertically arranged lenses on the left side. It doesn't look like Apple will use the new horizontal camera bar on the iPhone 17. There's also no information yet about sensor improvements. Currently, the model is expected to be equipped with a 48-megapixel fusion lens and a 12-megapixel ultra-wide-angle lens, as before. However, the new 24-megapixel front-facing camera will still be standard.
Which iPhone 17 is right for you?
The iPhone 17 brings major changes, especially to the cameras – but not to all models. You get the biggest innovations with the iPhone 17 Pro or Pro Max: more resolution, better zoom, 8K video, and a new camera design. The iPhone 17 Air relies on an extremely thin casing but does without additional lenses. Much of the standard model remains the same – except for the improved front-facing camera. If you regularly take photos or videos and value quality, it's worth taking a look at the Pro models. For everyone else, the iPhone 17 or Air might be sufficient – depending on whether camera variety or a sleek design is more important to you. The best products for you: Our Amazon storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: kanedacane / X)
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