Apple may be preparing one of its boldest iPhone redesigns in years with the upcoming iPhone 17 Pro. According to a new report, the device could abandon its familiar vertical camera cluster in favor of a wide horizontal bar that stretches across the rear of the phone. This would mark the first time Apple shifts toward a layout more reminiscent of Google’s Pixel series, creating a striking new look while also opening up space for more advanced camera technology.
The shift is not just about aesthetics. The new design is said to allow larger lenses and sensors, which could support features such as extended optical zoom and improved low-light performance. Photography has always been a core selling point for Apple’s high-end models, and this change suggests the company wants to double down on professional-grade imaging.
The materials used for the chassis are also rumored to change. After experimenting with titanium in the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro, Apple might return to aluminum for the iPhone 17 Pro. Aluminum is lighter, easier to colorize, and has advantages for thermal management. A lighter frame combined with new finishes could make the device feel different in hand, appealing to those who value both comfort and style.
Performance upgrades are also on the horizon. The Pro model is expected to ship with the A19 Pro chip, designed for more advanced AI tasks. To prevent overheating, Apple may adopt a vapor chamber cooling system for the first time in an iPhone. This would be a key step in keeping performance consistent during demanding use, something gamers and content creators have long requested.
Camera improvements are expected to go beyond the new layout. Rumors point to a 48-megapixel telephoto lens and a 24-megapixel front camera, making the phone more versatile for photography and video calls. Features like Wi-Fi 7 and faster MagSafe charging are also reportedly planned. Taken together, these upgrades suggest Apple wants to position the iPhone 17 Pro as both a performance powerhouse and a creative tool.
Even the Apple logo might be repositioned lower on the device to accommodate the new horizontal camera bar, a small but telling detail in the redesign. If these reports hold true, the iPhone 17 Pro could set a new direction for Apple’s flagship smartphones, combining engineering solutions with a visual overhaul. For those tracking developments, the rumored iPhone 17 event is expected in September 2025, where these changes may finally be confirmed.
