Apple iPhone 17 Series Preview: Specifications & Features Rumoured

With Apple’s annual iPhone cycle in full swing, the upcoming iPhone 17 Series, expected in September 2025, is already generating significant buzz. From possible design overhauls to AI-enhanced iOS 18 features, the iPhone 17 could mark one of the most significant leaps in Apple’s history—especially with the introduction of the rumored iPhone 17 Air.

As competitors like Samsung and Google push boundaries in AI and display tech, Apple is gearing up with new chips, sleeker builds, pro-level camera enhancements, and a commitment to pushing iPhone even further into premium and professional categories.

In this deep dive, we explore the iPhone 17 series lineup, performance upgrades, camera changes, pricing, and how it stacks up against the iPhone 16 Pro Max.

iPhone 17 Lineup: Expected Models

Apple is likely to continue the trend of releasing multiple models, with a new twist in branding:

• iPhone 17

• iPhone 17 Plus

• iPhone 17 Pro

• iPhone 17 Pro Max

• iPhone 17 Air (formerly rumored as “Slim”)

Do You Know? The iPhone 17 Air could be Apple’s thinnest iPhone ever, with a thickness under 5.5 mm.

iPhone 17

The base model will retain the core Apple experience with enhancements in display brightness, front camera quality, and performance.

• Expected screen size: 6.1"

• Improved 12 MP or 24 MP front camera

• Available in classic colorways like Midnight, Starlight, and Product(RED)

• Ideal for most users entering or staying in the Apple ecosystem

iPhone 17 Plus

Designed for users who prefer a larger screen and better battery life:

• Display: 6.7"

• Same chipset as iPhone 17

• Larger battery than the base model

• Excellent for media streaming and casual gaming

iPhone 17 Pro

A performance beast targeted at pros and content creators:

• ProMotion OLED display

• Triple-camera system with ProRAW and ProRes support

• A19 Pro chip with advanced neural processing

• Titanium frame and improved thermal management

iPhone 17 Pro Max

The flagship model with Apple’s most cutting-edge tech:

• 6.9" display, highest resolution

• 6x periscope zoom lens for telephoto shots

• Best-in-class display brightness and battery life

• Expected price: SGD 2,200+

iPhone 17 Air

This rumored device is tipped to replace the Plus variant with an emphasis on minimalism:

• Thinner than any iPhone ever (~5.4–5.5mm)

• May include a single camera to save weight

• Lightweight aluminum and glass construction

• Ideal for users who prioritize design and portability

iPhone 17 Series: Design & Display Rumours

The iPhone 17 Series could mark the biggest design update since the iPhone X. According to leaks:

• Sizes will range from 6.1" (iPhone 17) to 6.9" (Pro Max)

• iPhone 17 Air may be ultra-thin with flat edges and a new rear panel layout

• Narrower Dynamic Island or possible front camera under display (limited to Pro models)

• New color options: Titan Grey, Rose Titanium, and Electric Blue

iPhone 17 Series: Performance & Chipset

This year’s iPhones are expected to use the new A18 and A18 Pro chipsets, manufactured using TSMC’s second-gen 3nm process:

• Improved efficiency and battery optimization

• Stronger neural engine for on-device AI

• Upgraded GPU performance for gaming and creative workflows

Do You Know? The A18 Pro chip could support on-device generative AI models, such as offline voice transcription and smart replies.

iPhone 17 Series: Camera Upgrades

Apple is expected to bring 48MP main cameras across all iPhone 17 models. The Pro models will stand out with:

• Improved ultrawide sensor with better low-light performance

• Periscope lens on Pro Max with up to 6x optical zoom

• Anti-glare coating for clearer daylight photography

• Smart HDR 6 and on-device AI photo enhancements

Front cameras are also expected to get a boost, with 32 MP possible on higher-tier models.

iPhone 17 Series: Battery Life & Charging

Despite the slimmer build of the 17 Air and the larger display on the 17 Pro Max, battery performance is expected to improve across the board:

• Slightly larger batteries for Plus and Pro Max

• USB-C charging port across all models, likely retaining 20–27W fast charging

• MagSafe 3.0 could offer faster wireless charging and better magnet alignment

iOS 18 may also introduce battery health analytics with AI-based usage tracking to extend battery lifespan.

AI Features in iPhone 17 Series

Apple is expected to deeply integrate AI features with iOS 18, especially with the new chipsets. Rumoured features include:

• On-device Chatbot support via Apple Intelligence

• Smart photo editing, object removal, and auto-enhance

• Voice command improvements, like natural conversation and better Siri responses

• Real-time translation enhancements in FaceTime and iMessage

These features will work entirely on-device for privacy and performance.

For more on iOS features, see our steps to monitor iPhone data usage or how to screen record on iPhone with sound.

Expected Pricing & Release Timeline

Based on Apple’s past patterns, here’s what to expect:

Do You Know? Apple may offer early pre-order bonuses or bundle deals through telcos like Circles.Life and major retailers.

Apple iPhone 17 Series: Key Differences

iPhone 17 Air Rumoured Features

iPhone 16 Pro Max vs iPhone 17 Pro Max – Key Differences

FAQs About the iPhone 17 Series

When will the iPhone 17 series be released?

The iPhone 17 series is expected to launch in September 2025, with preorders beginning around September 13.

What are the main differences between iPhone 17 and iPhone 16?

Upgrades include the A18 chip, better cameras, AI tools in iOS 18, and design updates such as thinner models and new materials.

Will iPhone 17 include a periscope camera?

Yes, the iPhone 17 Pro Max is expected to feature a periscope zoom lens with up to 6x optical zoom.

Is there an iPhone 17 Slim or Air model?

Yes. The iPhone 17 Air is rumored to be Apple’s thinnest device ever, focused on style and simplicity.

What are the expected colors of iPhone 17?

Expected colors include Titan Grey, Rose Titanium, Electric Blue, and refreshed versions of Midnight and Starlight.

What iOS version will iPhone 17 ship with?

All iPhone 17 models will ship with iOS 18, featuring deep AI integration, smart Siri, and better photo tools.

What’s the expected battery life of iPhone 17?

Battery life is expected to improve across the board, with larger capacities and AI-based battery optimization in iOS 18.