iPhone 17, iPhone Air, iPhone Pro, iPhone Pro Max May Launch Mid-September: What to Expect

Apple is preparing to reveal its iPhone 17 series, expected in early September, though no official confirmation has been provided. Industry leaks suggest that the lineup may include four models: iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and the iPhone 17 Pro Max or possibly an Ultra version.

Historically, Apple holds its iPhone unveiling during the second week of September. Past patterns show announcements falling between September 5 and September 14 on Monday through Wednesday. If this trend continues, the event could occur between September 8 and 10, with pre-orders beginning Friday, September 12. Shipments and retail availability are anticipated to start on September 19.

Leaks indicate that the iPhone 17 may come equipped with Apple’s A18 chip, while the iPhone 17 Air is speculated to carry the A19. The higher-end Pro and Pro Max models are expected to integrate the A19 Pro chipset, representing Apple's most powerful processor to date.

In India, the iPhone 17 could launch with a starting price near Rs 79,900. Prices are projected to be higher than last year’s due to shifting trade tariffs and manufacturing costs impacted by U.S.-China relations. In the United States, the base variant might cost around $899, while UAE pricing is anticipated to begin at AED 3,799.

Design changes appear to be minimal. Apple may retain the form factor of the previous generation for the iPhone 17. However, the addition of a ProMotion display featuring a 120Hz refresh rate could enhance the visual experience in standard models.

The iPhone 17 is reportedly receiving a major upgrade to its front camera, shifting to a 24MP sensor from the previous 12MP. The rear will continue to feature a dual-camera setup with limited modifications.

The iPhone 17 is likely to carry 8GB RAM and may not see substantial hardware shifts apart from the new chipset and display enhancement. These configurations aim to maintain a balance between performance and cost.

According to reports from late 2024, the iPhone 17 Pro is expected to sport a redesigned horizontal triple-lens camera system, including a 48MP telephoto lens supporting up to 3.5x optical zoom. This variant and the Pro Max model will feature the A19 Pro chip.

Apple may reintroduce aluminum frames in the Pro models, a departure from stainless steel and titanium used in recent flagships. This design shift aligns with broader attempts to distinguish the material aesthetics between base and Pro variants.

Speculation from earlier this year pointed to the iPhone 17 Pro Max being 5 per cent thicker than its predecessor, potentially to accommodate a 5,000mAh battery. This increase would represent a notable jump from the iPhone 16 Pro Max's 4,676mAh unit.

Like the Pro variant, the Pro Max is expected to house three 48MP rear cameras, along with a new 24MP front camera. Though a more compact Dynamic Island was rumored, its implementation may be postponed until next year.