iPhone 17 rumors are already trickling in — and its predecessor, the iPhone 16, hasn’t even dropped yet.
The next-generation iPhone is expected to have thinner bezels, a new capture button for photos and videos, and better battery life, but the iPhone 17 series may be a tinge more exciting for Apple enthusiasts.
From reports of a new ultra-slim iPhone to whispers of a significant camera redesign, the iPhone 17 may be “the biggest update in years,” as MacRumors claims. Here’s why you may want to skip the iPhone 16 in favor of the iPhone 17.
1. A new sleek, slim model
Multiple reports claim that Apple is working on a “slim” iPhone 17 variant. In an investor note spotted by 9to5Mac, Jeff Pu, a respected Apple analyst, claims that the Cupertino-based tech giant will replace the “Plus” model with a new “Slim” device.
Credit: Mashable composite; Shutterstock / Black Salmon
In other words, instead of iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Plus, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max, expect the following lineup:
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iPhone 17
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iPhone 17 Slim
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iPhone 17 Pro
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iPhone 17 Pro Max
Ross Young and The Information have released similar reports, claiming that the Plus model is getting ditched in favor of a new “slim” variant.
2. Newer, better selfie camera
According to Ming-Chi Kuo, another respected Apple analyst, the iPhone 17 will feature a 24-megapixel selfie camera. Keep in mind that the megapixel count for the iPhone series hasn’t changed since the iPhone 11.
Credit: Mashable composite; Shutterstock / SkyArtist01, Champiofoto
Sure, there have been some tweaks and changes over the years, like upgrades to the aperture and image processing, for example. But a 12MP selfie camera has been on the iPhone series’ spec sheet since Apple introduced it in 2019.
That’s not necessarily a bad thing, though. As someone who has reviewed iPhones since the debut of the iPhone 12, the 12MP selfie camera has always been sufficient enough for me. In fact, I’ll even venture to say it’s too good, as it picks up on all my flaws and imperfections.
However, for anyone who disagrees with me, you’ll be relieved to know that the iPhone 17 is getting a big upgrade to a 24MP selfie camera.
It’s unclear whether the new 24MP selfie camera will be featured across the entire lineup or limited to a few models.
3. Relocated camera
If you’re tired of the iPhone’s camera array being located on the top-left corner, you may appreciate a new rumor that suggests the iPhone 17 Slim will have its shooter relocated to the top center, according to The Information.
Credit: Mashable / Stan Schroeder
We’re also hearing whispers that the iPhone 17 Slim will have just one rear camera (i.e., a solo wide lens).
If you’re a sucker for visual symmetry, Apple moving the wide camera to the top center may be appealing for you.
There is also scuttlebutt that Apple will shave a little bit off the Dynamic Island on the iPhone 17, thanks to a reported new under-display Face ID technology. So if you’re not a fan of the ovular, interactive area at the top of your iPhone screen, and you feel it’s a little too obstructive, the iPhone 17 may be worth the wait.