Apple may be preparing to unveil its most significant iPhone redesign in years with the upcoming iPhone 17. Leaked images and industry rumors suggest that the company is exploring a striking horizontal camera layout for the device, a departure from the vertical and clustered designs that have defined iPhones since 2019. The alleged redesign, combined with other speculated changes, indicates Apple's intention to refresh its product lineup and address criticisms of stagnant design evolution.
The leaked images, shared by tipster Majin Bu on X (formerly Twitter), purport to show the back panel of the iPhone 17. The design features a horizontal visor housing a camera cutout at one end, reminiscent of Google's Pixel smartphones. "if the image is real, but if it were, it would reflect the leaked design," Majin Bu stated. However, the leaker, known for a mixed track record, urged caution, acknowledging Apple's history of experimenting with multiple prototypes before settling on a final design.
Based on what was reported by my source, this would be the new iPhone 17 design. I can't be sure if the image is real, but if it were, it would reflect the leaked design. pic.twitter.com/vXhHqunzN7 — Majin Bu (@MajinBuOfficial) January 21, 2025
Adding to the intrigue, the leaked images display a single camera cutout rather than the expected two or three typically seen in iPhone models. This has led to speculation that the image might depict an early prototype or a base model of the iPhone 17. Analysts remain divided on whether Apple would adopt such a minimalist approach for its flagship device.
Industry experts are watching closely to see how Apple balances innovation with practicality. Ross Young, a display analyst, has reported that the 2025 iPhone lineup is expected to feature uniform design elements, including a pill-shaped camera cutout across all models. However, the horizontal camera layout, if implemented, could be exclusive to the standard iPhone 17, with Pro models retaining the rectangular module introduced with recent generations.
Apple has been relatively conservative with its design changes in recent years, focusing instead on internal upgrades and incremental refinements. Critics have labeled the lack of significant exterior updates as uninspired, potentially alienating customers eager for more visible innovation. The alleged iPhone 17 redesign could signal a renewed commitment to aesthetics and differentiation in an increasingly competitive smartphone market.
Reports also indicate that Apple may shift away from the titanium finish used in the iPhone 15 Pro series, opting instead for a seamless aluminum and glass combination. This move is expected to enhance the tactile experience and provide a smoother transition between materials. Such changes could align with Apple's rumored plans to incorporate advanced OLED display technology, further slimming down the device's profile.
The leaked information has also reignited speculation about the iPhone 17's camera capabilities. A horizontal lens arrangement could improve the quality of Spatial Photos and Videos by aligning lenses more effectively to create depth effects. This aligns with Apple's ongoing efforts to enhance its camera technology, a key selling point for the iPhone.
Despite the excitement surrounding these leaks, skepticism remains. The iPhone 17 is not expected to launch until 2025, leaving ample time for design iterations. Apple's development process typically involves rigorous testing and adjustments, and the final product could differ significantly from current rumors.
In addition to design changes, the iPhone 17 is expected to introduce features such as Always-On Display and ProMotion technology across all models, according to Ross Young. These upgrades, coupled with rumored advancements in OLED display technology, suggest a robust set of enhancements aimed at maintaining Apple's dominance in the premium smartphone market.