iPhone 17 Leaks and Rumors: Release Date, Price & Everything We Know So Far

📑 Table of contents

1. Key Takeaways
2. Leaks and Rumors about Apple’s iPhone 17 Lineup
3. When is the iPhone 17 Coming Out
4. Apple’s iPhone 17 Lineup Changes: What to Expect
5. Apple’s New Design for iPhone 17
6. iPhone 17
7. iPhone 17 Pro
8. iPhone 17 Pro Max
9. iPhone 17 Air
10. New Look: iPhone 17 Cases
11. iOS 26 – The Newest iPhone Operating System
12. Display Upgrades
13. Build and Materials
14. iPhone 17 Specs: Performance, Storage and Battery
15. Vapor Chamber Cooling
16. Camera Capabilities
17. Connectivity: Apple’s Custom 5G Modem & eSIM
18. Pricing: How Much Will the iPhone 17 Cost?

Apple's loyal following always shows up in full support for the product launches, and the iPhone 17 is no exception. It is among the most anticipated launches of 2025, and the rumor mill is running at full speed. 

There are whispers of a sleeker design, fresh model options, and next-level performance upgrades, and this year’s release could mark one of the biggest iPhone shake-ups in years. In this ultimate roundup, we’re breaking down everything we know so far – from potential release dates and expected pricing to the latest leaks about specs, features, and design changes.

Leaks and Rumors about Apple’s iPhone 17 Lineup

Apple’s September event is fast approaching, and speculation around the iPhone 17 series is intensifying. The lineup is expected to include four models: the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, and a new ultra-thin variant called the iPhone 17 Air. Here's a breakdown of the most credible leaks and rumors circulating so far.

When is The iPhone 17 Coming Out - Potential Release Date

If you're wondering when the iPhone 17 is coming out, join the watch party. Apple’s next-generation smartphone is already stirring excitement, and based on historical trends, we can make some educated guesses about its release timeline. 

Availability: Apple has followed a remarkably consistent launch pattern over the years, typically unveiling new iPhones during the second week of September. 

For example, the iPhone 14 was announced on September 7, 2022, and released on September 16. The iPhone 15 followed suit with a September 12 keynote and a September 22 release in 2023. And lastly, the iPhone 16 was announced on September 9, 2024, and released September 20.

iPhone 17 Release: Given this pattern, the iPhone 17 launch date will probably occur in early September 2025. As for leaks and rumors, a few interesting tidbits have surfaced. A brief listing on the Apple TV app hinted at a September 9 keynote before being quickly removed, and internal carrier documents in Germany seem to confirm that date. 

No credible sources suggest delays, but there is speculation that Apple may accelerate the rollout of certain models – particularly the rumored iPhone 17 Air, a super-thin variant that could debut alongside the main lineup.

Where can I get it?: Apple’s global rollout typically happens in waves. On day one, the iPhone is usually available in major markets like the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Germany, Japan, and select European and Asian countries.

In the following weeks, availability expands including India, South America, and parts of Africa. Expect long lines at Apple Stores in cities like Sydney and Tokyo, which often open first due to time zone differences.

As usual, Apple’s cadence is fairly predictable, but the innovations they pack into each new device is always full of surprises. Stay tuned.

Apple’s iPhone 17 Lineup Changes: What To Expect

Apple is moving in a different direction with the iPhone 17 series, and one big change is the absence of the iPhone 17 Plus. Instead, the company is introducing a brand-new, thinner model, called the iPhone 17 Air. That means we’ll see a fresh mix of devices in the lineup, with the standard iPhone 17, the more advanced Pro models, and the sleek new Air rounding things out. This marks an intentional revamping in Apple’s approach to its highly-anticipated lineup.  

No More iPhone 17 Plus

The Plus model was originally introduced to offer a larger screen without the premium price tag of the Pro Max. However, it never quite found its audience. Sales figures for the iPhone 14 Plus and 15 Plus were underwhelming, with the latter failing to break into the top 10 global smartphone shipments. 

Consumers either opted for the more affordable base model or splurged on the feature-rich Pro and Pro Max versions, leaving the Plus stranded in a no-man’s-land of demand.

Apple’s decision also reflects a broader pattern in its product strategy. The company has a history of experimenting with form factors and retiring those that don’t resonate. Take the iPhone 12 Mini, for example, which was discontinued after just two generations due to poor sales. The Plus was essentially a response to that failure (an attempt to offer size without complexity) but it too failed to gain traction.

To replace the Plus, Apple is introducing the iPhone 17 Air, a sleek, ultra-thin model that retains the 6.6-inch display but shifts focus toward design and portability. It's different from the Plus, and the Air is not trying to be a budget-friendly alternative to the Pro Max.  

This move is part of Apple's effort to simplify the iPhone lineup and reduce internal competition. By clearly differentiating models: base, Air, Pro, and Pro Max - Apple can guide consumers more effectively and avoid cannibalizing its own sales. The Air also aligns with Apple’s renewed emphasis on design-first innovation, a theme that will more than likely define the next few years of iPhone development.

So in short, the iPhone 17 Plus is gone, not because it was a bad idea, but because it didn’t fit into Apple’s evolving vision. The company is betting that the Air will succeed where the Plus faltered, by offering something truly distinct, rather than something in-between.

Introducing iPhone 17 Air

The iPhone 17 Air is expected to be Apple’s most daring design yet, with an ultra-thin, ultra-lightweight device aimed at users who value sleekness and simplicity. At approximately 6mm thick, it’s on track to become the thinnest iPhone ever, even slimmer than the iPhone 6. 

The Apple iPhone 17 Air will reportedly feature a hybrid aluminum-glass frame, a 6.1-inch OLED display with 120Hz refresh rate, and eSIM-only support, removing the physical SIM tray entirely.  

• Targeted at minimalists, students, and frequent travellers  

• Expected to run on the A19 chip with 8GB RAM  

• Battery capacity may be limited to around 2,800mAh  

• No telephoto lens, but dual 48MP rear cameras are likely  

• Pricing is supposed to start at $899, placing it between the base and Pro models  

The iPhone 17 Air could redefine what a slim phone looks like, without skimping on core performance.

All Expected Models

Apple’s iPhone 17 models are expected to include four distinct variants, each tailored to a different user profile. The lineup includes the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, and the newly introduced iPhone 17 Air.

• iPhone 17: The base model with a 6.1-inch display, dual rear cameras, and aluminum frame. Ideal for everyday users.  

• iPhone 17 Air: Same screen size but significantly thinner (6mm), with a lightweight build and eSIM-only support. Designed for portability and style.  

• iPhone 17 Pro: Slightly larger at 6.3 inches, featuring a triple-lens camera system, LiDAR, and a more advanced A19 Pro chip.  

• iPhone 17 Pro Max: The largest and most powerful, with a 6.9-inch display, periscope zoom lens, and the biggest battery ever in an iPhone.

Each model scales in price and capability, offering options from entry-level to ultra-premium. Whether you're a casual user or a mobile content creator, there's an iPhone 17 model built for you.

Apple’s New Design for iPhone 17

iPhone 17 design rumors suggest a bold shift across the lineup. All models are expected to feature thinner frames, smoother edges, and a refined rear material blend of aluminum and glass. The iPhone 17 design leaks point to a horizontal camera bar on Pro models, replacing the square module used since 2019.  

• New colors include light blue (Air), orange (Pro), and matte silver (Pro Max)  

• The iPhone 17 Air stands out with its ultra-slim ~6mm profile and eSIM-only build  

• Pro models may use aluminum instead of titanium for weight reduction  

These iPhone 17 render previews hint at Apple’s most unified and modern aesthetic yet.

Note: All details are rumors/leaks and may change before launch.

iPhone 17

The base iPhone 17 is expected to bring subtle but meaningful upgrades over its predecessor, focusing on display, camera, and design refinements. Though it's not as feature-packed as the Pro models, it may still benefit from trickle-down enhancements that improve everyday use.

Display

Rumors suggest a 6.1-inch OLED screen with thinner bezels and brighter output. Multiple sources claim 120Hz ProMotion and always-on display may finally reach the base model. Compared to iPhone 16’s 60Hz panel, this would offer smoother scrolling and better responsiveness - especially noticeable in gaming and animations. These upgrades remain unconfirmed.

Camera

The iPhone 17 is expected to retain a dual 48MP rear camera setup, with improved sensors for low-light performance. Leaks also point to a 24MP front-facing camera, up from 12MP, enhancing selfies and FaceTime clarity. Basic video features like cinematic mode and 4K recording are likely, but pro-grade tools remain exclusive to higher models.

Frame

Apple will reportedly use a refined aluminium frame, slightly slimmer than the iPhone 16’s chassis. The edges may shift toward a more rounded contour for better grip. Aluminum is lighter than titanium, but the metal may trade off some durability compared to titanium. Overall, the design aims for comfort without compromising structural integrity.

Available Colors

Leaks suggest the iPhone 17 will launch in pink, lavender, midnight, starlight, and possibly a new mint green finish. Some sources conflict on exact shades, but pink and lavender appear consistently across reports. As always, color availability may vary depending on region and storage tier.

iPhone 17 Pro

The iPhone 17 Pro should be giving us some premium upgrades in display, camera, and build quality - positioning it as the go-to choice for power users and mobile creatives. Leaks suggest Apple is refining the Pro experience with smarter materials and pro-grade imaging tools.

Display

The iPhone 17 Pro will likely feature a 6.3-inch LTPO OLED panel with adaptive 120Hz ProMotion and always-on display; both of which are near-confirmed. Rumors point to increased brightness and slimmer bezels. Compared to the base model, users can expect smoother visuals, better HDR, and a more immersive screen-to-body ratio.

Camera

Leaks suggest a triple-lens setup with upgraded wide and ultra-wide sensors, plus an enhanced telephoto lens. Extreme zoom is reserved for the Pro Max, but the Pro may support 8K video, ProRes, and Log encoding, making it ideal for creators who want pro-tier tools in a smaller form factor.

Frame

Apple may switch from titanium to aluminum for the Pro frame, reducing weight while improving heat dissipation. Though slightly less durable, aluminum offers better thermal performance. A new matte texture and refined edge curvature could help distinguish the Pro from the base model visually and ergonomically.

Available Colors

Expected colors include graphite, deep blue, and a new burnt orange seasonal finish. Multiple sources mention a matte coating for reduced glare and improved fingerprint resistance. These tones are likely exclusive to the Pro tier, offering a more subdued, professional aesthetic than the base model’s playful palette.pk

iPhone 17 Pro Max

Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro Max is supposed to be the powerhouse of the lineup, built for creators, gamers, and anyone who wants the biggest and best. Leaks say it’ll push boundaries in display, camera, and thermal design.

Display

The Pro Max will reportedly feature a 6.9-inch LTPO OLED panel with adaptive 120Hz refresh rate and always-on support. Slimmer bezels and boosted peak brightness aim to enhance immersion. For gamers and video editors, this means smoother motion, better battery efficiency, and more vibrant visuals, apparent in HDR workflows.

Camera

Exclusive to the Max, Apple may introduce a long-range periscope or tetraprism zoom lens, capable of up to 8x optical zoom. A larger main sensor and faster night mode capture are also said to be in the mix, which is perfect for low-light photography and high-end mobile videography.

Frame

The Pro Max may retain a premium aluminum frame, but its larger camera module and possible vapor-chamber cooling could add slight heft and thickness compared to the Pro. This trade-off supports sustained performance and advanced thermal management for demanding tasks.

Available Colors

Color leaks suggest the Pro Max will mirror the Pro’s palette (graphite, deep blue, and burnt orange) but may debut a new hero color, possibly rose titanium. Matte finishes and fingerprint-resistant coatings are expected across all Pro-tier models.

iPhone 17 Air

The iPhone 17 Air is Apple’s answer to ultra-portable design, blending premium materials with minimalist engineering. It’s expected to replace the Plus model and appeal to users who want sleekness without sacrificing core features.

Display

The Air is supposed to feature a 6.1-inch OLED display, possibly with 120Hz ProMotion. The brightness may be slightly lower due to its slim build, but the screen is still positioned as lightweight and premium - ideal for casual browsing, social media, and video streaming.

Camera

To maintain its ultra-thin profile, the Air may use a streamlined dual-camera setup, likely without telephoto. Leaks suggest a focus on everyday photography, with solid low-light performance and a high-res front camera for selfies and video calls.

Frame

At just ~6mm thick, the Air is expected to be Apple’s thinnest iPhone ever. Built with a glass-aluminum hybrid frame, it may also be eSIM-only, with fewer ports and a smaller battery. The result is a device that’s featherlight, minimalist, and travel-friendly.

Available Colors

The Air is rumored to launch in light blue, mint green, lavender, and starlight; it's a more playful, fashion-forward palette than the Pro models. These pastel tones align with the Air’s branding, though availability may vary by region and storage tier.

New Look: iPhone 17 Cases

As Apple unveils slimmer designs and a sleek new iPhone 17 Air, our team at BURGA has been busy reimagining cases that don’t just fit perfectly, but also turn your phone into a fashion statement.

Every BURGA iPhone 17 case is created to match the new streamlined silhouette, with precision cutouts, lightweight materials, and raised edges that keep those shiny new camera bars safe from scratches. Our motto is that protection should never come at the expense of style.

Whether you’re into bold, head-turning prints or subtle, minimalist textures, our latest iPhone 17 cases are made to celebrate Apple’s redesign while keeping your tech as gorgeous (and protected) as the day you unboxed it.

iOS 26 – The Newest iPhone Operating System

The iOS 26 update debuts alongside the iPhone 17 lineup, bringing a refined interface and smarter features to Apple’s mobile ecosystem. This new iOS for iPhone 17 introduces a “Liquid Glass” design language with smoother transitions, translucent layers, and more dynamic widgets. Usability upgrades include customizable lock screens, grouped notifications by context, and deeper Focus Mode integration.  

Privacy tools are also getting a boost, as users can now lock individual apps with Face ID and receive real-time alerts when sensitive data is accessed. The iPhone 17 software update adds smarter battery management and adaptive brightness tuned to ambient conditions.  

For personalization, iOS 26 supports interactive home screen widgets, theme packs, and expanded emoji reactions in Messages. The OS is optimized for the A19 chip, making the experience faster and more fluid across all iOS 26 supported devices, including iPhone 15 and newer.

Apple Intelligence

Apple Intelligence is the headline feature of iOS 26, marking Apple’s biggest AI leap yet. The iPhone 17 AI features include a smarter Siri that understands context across apps, generates summaries, and even rewrites emails or texts on command.  

Real-time translation, image recognition, and voice transcription are now processed on-device, preserving privacy as it still speeds up performance.  

This Apple iPhone 17 intelligence suite positions Apple competitively against Google’s Gemini and Samsung’s Galaxy AI, with a focus on privacy-first design and seamless integration.  

So yes, the iPhone 17 supports Apple Intelligence because it’s built into the core of iOS 26.

Display Upgrades

The iPhone 17 display is said to bring thoughtful improvements across the lineup. All models may feature OLED panels with enhanced brightness, richer color accuracy, and noticeably thinner bezels. These upgrades are there to deliver a more immersive viewing experience while improving battery efficiency. Whether you're streaming, gaming, or editing, the iPhone 17 OLED screens should feel more responsive and vibrant than ever.

ProMotion – Smooth 120Hz Experience

Apple’s iPhone 17 ProMotion technology uses adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz, adjusting dynamically based on content. This means smoother scrolling, better animations, and reduced battery drain when static images are displayed. Previously exclusive to Pro models, leaks suggest the 120Hz display may finally reach the base iPhone 17 and Air variants. For gamers and multitaskers, this upgrade could make everyday interactions feel faster and more fluid.

Always-on Display

The always-on display feature, long reserved for Pro models, is expected to expand to the full iPhone 17 lineup. This allows users to glance at time, widgets, or notifications without waking the device. It’s especially useful for productivity and Focus Mode setups. With OLED efficiency improvements, the feature should have minimal impact on battery life. That makes it a welcome addition for users who value quick, passive access to important info.

Build and Materials: Aluminum, Titanium or Glass

The iPhone 17 build is expected to reflect Apple’s push for lighter, more refined hardware across the lineup. Leaks suggest the iPhone 17 Pro may shift from full titanium, like the iPhone 15 Pro and the 16 Pro, to an aluminum-titanium blend, balancing strength with reduced weight. This change could improve thermal performance but still maintain a premium feel.  

The base iPhone 17 aluminum frame is likely to remain, offering durability at a lower cost. Meanwhile, the iPhone 17 Air is designed around extreme thinness (~6mm), using a glass-aluminum hybrid to keep it light and sleek.  

While titanium offers superior scratch resistance, aluminum is easier to shape and cool, making it ideal for slimmer designs. The iPhone 17 glass back is expected to be reinforced for wireless charging and aesthetics.  

These iPhone 17 frame material choices reflect Apple’s effort to optimize weight, durability, and thermal efficiency, especially as iPhone 17 thin design leaks continue to surface.

iPhone 17 Specs: Performance, Storage and Battery

The iPhone 17 specs mark a significant leap forward in Apple’s hardware evolution. From faster processing and expanded memory to smarter wireless charging, every upgrade is designed to enhance performance, gaming, and everyday use. Compared to the iPhone 16, users can expect smoother multitasking, quicker downloads, and longer battery life.

A19 Chip  

You have the iPhone 17 A19 chip, exclusive to the base model, and then you have the A19 Pro chip for the Pro and Pro Max models. Both versions deliver a major performance boost over the A18. This next-gen iPhone 17 processor is optimized for AI, enabling faster image recognition, smarter Siri responses, and real-time language translation. It’s built for power users and mobile gamers who demand speed and efficiency. 

RAM

With up to 12GB of iPhone 17 RAM in Pro models and 8GB in standard versions, the iPhone 17 memory upgrade allows for smoother multitasking and better app performance. Users can run multiple demanding apps simultaneously without lag, making it ideal for productivity and creative workflows.

Wi-Fi 7

The addition of iPhone 17 Wi-Fi 7 brings ultra-fast wireless speeds and lower latency. This means more reliable connections for streaming 4K video, cloud gaming, and video conferencing. Wi-Fi 7 also supports multi-link operation, allowing the iPhone 17 to maintain stable performance even in crowded networks.

Storage  

The iPhone 17 storage lineup introduces new iPhone 17 GB options, with the Pro Max model rumored to offer up to 2TB. That’s double the maximum capacity of the iPhone 16. Base models start at 128GB, while Pro models begin at 256GB, giving users more room for high-res media and AI-powered features.

Battery and Charging

The iPhone 17 charger supports iPhone 17 wireless charging via the new Qi 2.2 (Qi 25W) standard, delivering up to 25W speeds. Combined with a more efficient iPhone 17 battery, users get longer screen time and faster top-ups. Apple may also debut a redesigned port to improve iPhone 17 charging speed and heat management.

Vapor Chamber Cooling

Apple is reportedly introducing a new iPhone 17 vapor chamber system in the Pro and Pro Max models to address heat buildup during high-performance tasks. This advanced iPhone 17 cooling system uses liquid evaporation and condensation to regulate internal temperatures more efficiently than traditional graphite pads.  

The goal is smoother gaming, faster charging, and sustained performance during video editing or multitasking. The iPhone 17 Pro vapor chamber may also support better thermal management for AI workloads and 8K video capture.  

To recap, the iPhone 17 has cooling, notably in the Pro models, where the vapor chamber system is expected to be a key differentiator.

Camera Capabilities

The iPhone 17 camera lineup is rumored to receive major upgrades across all models. Apple is reportedly improving sensor size, low-light performance, and megapixel count to enhance image clarity and dynamic range.  

The iPhone 17 Pro camera may feature a triple-lens system with advanced telephoto, while the iPhone 17 Pro Max camera could include a periscope-style lens for extreme zoom. These enhancements aim to elevate mobile photography and video creation.

Front Camera

Leaks suggest the iPhone 17 front camera will jump to 24MP, doubling the resolution from previous models. The iPhone 17 selfie camera may also include improved night mode and better skin tone rendering, ideal for social media and video calls.

Rear Camera

The iPhone 17 rear camera setup varies by model. The base model may retain dual 48MP lenses, while the iPhone 17 Pro Max rear lens could include a larger sensor and up to 8x optical zoom. Pro models may also gain LiDAR enhancements.

Video Upgrades

The iPhone 17 video experience is expected to support 8K recording, cinematic mode, and advanced stabilization. These features cater to creators who want pro-level tools in a mobile package, especially on the Pro and Pro Max variants.

Connectivity: Apple’s Custom 5G Modem & eSIM

Apple is gradually moving away from Qualcomm and introducing its own in-house iPhone 17 5G modem, known as the C1 chip. This custom iPhone 17 modem debuts in the iPhone 17 Air, offering better power efficiency and faster sub-6GHz performance. 

Even though the rest of the lineup still relies on Qualcomm modems due to existing contracts, Apple’s move signals a long-term strategy to control modem design, reduce costs, and optimize integration with its A-series chips.  

Advantages of Apple’s custom modem include:  

• Improved battery life during 5G use  

• Faster speeds in congested areas  

• Easier global rollout with broader band support  

Though mmWave support is missing in the C1 chip, Apple is prioritizing coverage and efficiency over peak speed in this generation.

Embracing eSIM Technology

The iPhone 17 eSIM transition is accelerating, particularly with the Air model. Apple is expected to make the Air eSIM-only, dropping the physical SIM tray entirely to accommodate its ultra-thin design.  

Does the iPhone 17 have a SIM tray? 

• U.S. models: All variants are eSIM-only  

• Global models: Pro and base models may retain SIM trays in select regions  

• iPhone 17 eSIM only: Confirmed for Air in most markets  

For travelers, this means:

• Easier plan switching without physical cards  

• Better waterproofing and security  

• Reliance on eSIM-compatible carriers and marketplaces  

Carriers are adapting quickly, but some regions may still face compatibility gaps.

Pricing: How Much Will the iPhone 17 Cost?

The iPhone 17 price is expected to rise slightly compared to the iPhone 16 series. Analysts predict a $50 bump across most models, driven by component upgrades and tariff pressures from China.  

The iPhone 17 Air replaces the Plus model and serves as the new entry point, starting at $899. The Pro Max could reach $1,249 due to its advanced camera system and vapor chamber cooling.  

Apple may offset price hikes by increasing base storage; Pro models are rumored to start at 256GB.

US Market

In the U.S., pricing rumors suggest:  

• iPhone 17: ~$849  

• iPhone 17 Air: ~$899  

• iPhone 17 Pro: ~$1,049  

• iPhone 17 Pro Max: ~$1,199–$1,249  

Pre-orders are expected to begin Friday, September 12, with retail availability on Friday, September 19. Tariffs on Chinese components may influence final pricing, though Apple’s shift to Indian manufacturing could soften the impact.

Global Market

Global iPhone 17 cost varies by region:  

• India: ~₹79,900 (base), ~₹164,900 (Pro Max)  

• UK: ~£849 (base), ~£1,249 (Pro Max)  

• EU: ~€1,019 (base), ~€1,299 (Pro Max)  

• Latin America: Prices may be 20–30% higher due to import duties 

The iPhone 17 global price reflects local taxes, tariffs, and currency shifts. Apple’s pricing strategy continues to balance premium positioning with regional realities.

* Pricing is not confirmed. Figures shown are based on leaks and analyst estimates and may change at launch.