Apple to dramatically change the iPhone 17's design, suggests leak from reputable tipster

Apple’s upcoming iPhone 17 series could mark one of the biggest design shifts in years, according to a new leak. Well-known tipster “Digital Chat Station” has claimed on Chinese social media platform Weibo that the iPhone 17 models will feature a significantly different chassis, moving away from recent design trends. If true, this would mean a much more noticeable change compared to the relatively minor upgrades between the iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 series.

One of the most eye-catching changes appears to be in the camera layout. The leak suggests that Apple will introduce a horizontal camera bar across the iPhone 17 lineup, with the iPhone 17 Air—the rumoured slimmer model—getting a more compact version, while the iPhone 17 Pro models will feature a larger horizontal camera bump. If accurate, this design would be a dramatic departure from Apple’s current vertical and square camera arrangements.

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A new camera layout in the works

This latest leak aligns with previous rumours suggesting a horizontal camera setup for at least some iPhone 17 models. While some of these reports have come from sources with mixed track records, the fact that multiple leaks are pointing in the same direction adds weight to the claim.

f Apple does shift to a horizontal layout, it could mean an entirely new approach to iPhone photography and potentially new hardware changes to accommodate this design.

Earlier reports also suggested that Apple was exploring changes beyond just the camera placement. Some leaks claimed the iPhone 17 Pro might feature a larger rectangular camera bump, although specific details remain unclear. With Apple always looking to refine its camera technology, this shift could signal an even bigger upgrade in sensor technology and image processing capabilities.

Mixed reports on build materials

Beyond the camera design, there have been conflicting rumours regarding the materials Apple will use for the iPhone 17 Pro models. A report from November 2024 suggested that Apple might replace its titanium build with a mix of aluminium and glass. However, this claim was later contradicted by another leaker, leaving the material shift in question.

If Apple does move away from titanium, it could be due to cost considerations, weight reduction, or a desire to refine the overall look and feel of the device. That said, titanium was only recently introduced with the iPhone 15 Pro models, so it remains uncertain whether Apple would abandon it so soon.

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The return of curved edges?

One of the most intriguing parts of this leak is the potential return of curved edges on the iPhone 17 Pro models. After several generations of flat-edged iPhones, a shift back to curved sides would be a significant design change. Flat edges have been praised for their modern aesthetic, but some users find them less comfortable to hold compared to previous curved designs.

If Apple brings back curved edges, it could indicate a move towards better ergonomics while maintaining a premium look. This could also tie into the new camera layout, potentially making the iPhone 17 Pro models stand out visually from their predecessors.

With the iPhone 17 launch expected in late 2025, more leaks are bound to surface in the coming months. While it’s still too early to confirm these changes, Apple seems poised to introduce a more dramatic redesign than we’ve seen in recent years.