Appleās upcoming iPhone 17 series is shaping up to be one of its most significant updates in years, with multiple reports hinting at design shifts, material changes, and potential lineup adjustments. Leaks suggest that the iPhone 17 Air will be an ultra-thin device matching the size of the iPhone 17 Pro Max, apart from thickness. Meanwhile, the Pro Max model could gain extra depth to accommodate a larger battery.
iPhone 17 Air and iPhone 17 Pro Max to share dimensions
According to prominent leaker Ice Universe, the iPhone 17 Air will have the same height, width, and display size as the iPhone 17 Pro Max, with only thickness setting them apart. The Air model is said to measure just 5.5mm thick, making it one of the slimmest iPhones ever, while the Pro Max is expected to be 8.725mm thickāsignificantly bulkier than its predecessor.
This claim contrasts with earlier reports suggesting that the iPhone 17 Air would feature a 6.55-inch display. Instead, if the new information holds, it could have a larger 6.9-inch screen, just like the Pro Max. The slimmer design may lead to some trade-offs, such as limited internal space for components like mmWave 5G antennas.
| iPhone 17 Pro Max | iPhone 17 Air | |
|---|---|---|
| Depth | 8.73 mm | 5.55 mm |
| Height | 163 mm | 163 mm |
| Width | 77.6 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Display | 6.9″ (174 mm) | 6.9″ (174 mm) |
| Screen Border | 1.15 mm | 1.15 mm |
Thicker iPhone 17 Pro Max could house a larger battery
The increased depth of the iPhone 17 Pro Max could allow for a bigger battery, improving longevity without significantly altering the device’s footprint. Reports also suggest that the Pro Max could introduce a revised camera module, with the LiDAR sensor repositioned for a new layout.
Apple may also refine the Dynamic Island, potentially making it smaller, though this remains speculative. Some sources suggest that the Pro Max could include advanced cooling features, such as a vapor chamber system, to enhance performance.
Material changes: Aluminum over titanium
Another major shift could come in the choice of materials. After introducing titanium in the iPhone 15 Pro series, Apple is now rumored to be returning to aluminum for the iPhone 17 Pro Max. Analysts believe this move aligns with Appleās environmental goals, as aluminum has a lower carbon footprint. The device may also feature a hybrid glass-aluminum back, replacing the current all-glass design.
Is Apple preparing for an Ultra model?
Some industry watchers speculate that Appleās decision to make the Pro Max thicker while introducing a slim Air model could signal a broader shift in its lineup. Reports suggest that Apple may rebrand the Pro Max as the āUltraā model, following its strategy with the Apple Watch. If so, the iPhone 17 series could consist of:
- iPhone 17
- iPhone 17 Air
- iPhone 17 Pro
- iPhone 17 Ultra
While Apple has simplified its lineup in recent years, adding an Ultra model could help differentiate the highest-end iPhone from the rest. However, the company has not confirmed these plans, and its final approach may not be clear until the official launch, expected in September.
Conclusion
The iPhone 17 lineup appears set to bring significant design refinements, with an ultra-thin Air model, a bulkier Pro Max, and potential material shifts. While rumors continue to circulate, Appleās final decisions will only become clear closer to launch. If the company does introduce an Ultra model, it could mark a major change in how it positions its flagship devices.
