iPhone 17 Pro: Will the "triangular" layout remain?

The iPhone 17 Pro is already in the spotlight of the rumor mill. The camera design in particular is causing discussions. While some sources speak of a new horizontal layout, others contradict this assumption and see Apple continuing with the tried and tested "triangular" design.

The camera has been one of the key selling points for the iPhone for years - not only because of its performance but also because of its design. With the iPhone 11 Pro, Apple introduced the iconic "triangular" layout that has become the trademark of the Pro models to this day. But when it comes to the iPhone 17 Pro, speculation about a possible redesign is mounting. Some of the leaks sound plausible, others contradict each other. Here you can find out which rumors currently have the most weight.

The familiar “triangular” layout remains – or does it?

According to a new Contribution According to leaker "Instant Digital" on Weibo, the iPhone 17 Pro will continue to use the "triangular" camera layout that Apple has been using since the iPhone 11 Pro. The layout was introduced back then to accommodate a third camera, the ultra-wide-angle camera. Not only does it offer space for modern sensors, it has also established itself as a distinctive design standard. Instant Digital claims that the rumor of a horizontal camera layout is not true. Instead, Apple is said to keep the arrangement of the three cameras, although the design of the back of the device will probably change. This is in contrast to other reports that predict a rectangular, horizontally aligned module.

What could change on the back?

An important innovation concerns the material of the back. According to current information, Apple could use a rectangular camera bump made of aluminum on the iPhone 17 Pro. However, the rest of the back would still be made of glass to ensure the wireless charging function. This combination of materials could offer both optical and functional advantages, especially in terms of the durability and weight of the device.

Rumors from the supply chain

Other sources from the Chinese supply chain contradict Instant Digital's statements. According to these reports, the iPhone 17 Pro could get an oval or horizontal camera module, which would be a drastic departure from the current design. It remains unclear which reports are ultimately correct, but the discussion shows that Apple may be experimenting with different design ideas.

The credibility of the leaks

Instant Digital has made some correct predictions in the past. Examples include the announcement of the yellow iPhone 14, the frosted back glass of the iPhone 15, and the spatial video recording feature of the iPhone 15 Pro. While not all of the leaker's information has always been accurate, his track record gives reason to believe that there is a grain of truth in his statements this time too.

Why Apple might stick with the “triangular” design

The "triangular" layout is not only an aesthetic but also a functional element of the iPhone's design. It allows for an even distribution of cameras and provides enough space for larger sensors and new technologies. A change to a horizontal design could limit these advantages and detract from the iconic look that many users appreciate. At the same time, a change that is too drastic could confuse potential buyers who value the iPhone for its recognizability.

The iPhone 17 Pro: Tried and tested rethought

The iPhone 17 Pro seems to be an exciting mix of tried and tested features and new ideas. Although the camera layout will probably not change fundamentally, materials such as aluminum and new design approaches could bring a breath of fresh air. Ultimately, it remains to be seen which rumors turn out to be true. What is certain, however, is that Apple wants to set the bar in the smartphone world again with the iPhone 17 Pro. (Photo by Unsplash / Rohan)