Apple is anticipated to reveal the iPhone 17 series in just three days, and new reports have shed light on the design of the Pro models.
According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max will likely feature a “new cutout area on the lower two-thirds of the back, which could also function as the wireless charging zone.” This coincides with the earlier rumours suggesting a unique back design combining glass and aluminium, aimed at supporting wireless charging technologies such as MagSafe and Qi.
Major design overhaul?
Last year, The Information reported that the Pro models would adopt a part-aluminium, part-glass construction, but the specifics of the design remained unclear, leading to various concept images and renders circulating online. MacRumors’ visualisations hinted at a rounded rectangular section on the rear, which now appears to align with Gurman’s description. It is yet to be revealed whether Apple will offer a uniform colour across the aluminium and glass sections or opt for a two-tone finish around the charging area.
Interestingly, Apple appears to be returning to an aluminium frame for the Pro models, a shift from the titanium frames seen in the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro. Gurman suggests this may be intended to reduce weight and improve heat dissipation. Previous Pro models, from the iPhone X to the iPhone 14 Pro, used stainless steel frames.
Expected specifications
On the performance front, the iPhone 17 Pro series is expected to include the new A19 Pro chip, enhanced battery life, and a substantial upgrade to the telephoto camera, which is rumoured to jump from 12MP to 48MP. Additional improvements may include a variable aperture, the ability to record from front and rear cameras simultaneously, and a significant boost to the front-facing camera sensor.
Apple fans and tech enthusiasts will have all their questions answered at the official launch event on Tuesday.
