The iPhone 17 Pro is already making headlines ahead of its expected September launch. Leaks suggest a bold redesign and notable hardware upgrades. One of the most talked-about changes is the rumored overhaul of the rear camera. Another key improvement could be a larger battery, thanks to a slightly thicker build. Together, these updates may make the iPhone 17 Pro both visually distinct and more powerful.
Two new renders have surfaced, offering possible previews of the updated design. One render, by 3D designer @kanedacane on X, features a clean rear panel. The camera bump stretches across the entire width of the phone. This design resembles the horizontal camera bar used in Google’s Pixel lineup. It gives the iPhone a symmetrical and modern appearance. The render shows a color-matching camera panel that blends with the phone’s back, creating a seamless look.
This concept includes a triple-lens layout, with the flash, LiDAR sensor, and microphone aligned vertically on the right side of the bar. The lenses still protrude slightly, but the overall design looks balanced and less bulky. These changes may signal Apple’s goal to refine the phone’s style while enhancing its functionality.
Another render from YouTuber 4RMD takes a flashier approach. It shows a camera panel in a contrasting color and highlights a rectangular periscope lens. However, Apple typically favors subtle design choices. The tetraprism periscope lens in the iPhone 15 Pro Max already blends in with other lenses. This makes 4RMD’s version seem less likely. His render also suggests a return of Touch ID, which most experts don’t expect in the 2025 model.
Meanwhile, sources like Ryan Christoffel at 9to5Mac believe Apple plans to increase the thickness of the iPhone 17 Pro Max. This could allow for a bigger battery. The iPhone 16 Pro Max already offers up to 33 hours of video playback. A thicker frame may push battery life even further. Some speculate Apple could rename it the iPhone 17 Ultra, similar to the Apple Watch Ultra.
Besides battery and camera updates, the new horizontal camera bar could improve stability. Current iPhones often wobble when placed on flat surfaces due to the raised corner camera. A full-width design may reduce this issue. Still, the protruding lenses might require a case for better balance.
These renders may not show the final design, but they offer clues. Apple could be preparing one of its most refined and functional iPhones yet. If accurate, the iPhone 17 Pro may combine bold design, improved performance, and longer battery life. This would make it one of the most exciting iPhones in recent years.
