Both the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max are expected to compete fiercely for the title of best smartphone. According to leaks, Apple has made major changes to design as well as hardware. Unlike the titanium frame of previous models, this year’s Pro versions will feature an aluminum-glass hybrid frame.

Transparent case images have revealed a rounded matte square section on the back, likely concealing the MagSafe system and the aluminum-glass joint.

Another notable change is the repositioned Apple logo. According to Apple Hub on TikTok, the iconic logo will move slightly lower - just beneath the rear camera module. This is the first time Apple has altered the logo’s placement since the iPhone 11 in 2019.

Early prototypes also suggest a thicker body, with the iPhone 17 Pro Max measuring 8.7mm in thickness, up from 8.25mm on the iPhone 16 Pro Max.

Display: Scratch-resistant, anti-reflective coating

According to Instant Digital, the iPhone 17 Pro Max will feature a new ultra-durable anti-reflective display coating. This promises better scratch resistance and toughness compared to the existing Ceramic Shield.

Although the production process initially faced challenges, Apple suppliers have now achieved stable mass production, enabling a broader rollout.

However, only the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max will benefit from this new coating, leaving the iPhone 17 and 17 Air models with existing screen technology.

Performance: A19 Pro chip, 12GB RAM, vapor chamber cooling

The iPhone 17 Pro Max will be powered by Apple’s latest A19 Pro chip. Although still based on the 3nm process (with the 2nm version expected next year for iPhone 18), the A19 Pro is manufactured on an enhanced 3nm node by TSMC, promising both speed and energy efficiency.

To manage the additional heat generated by the more powerful chip, Apple may incorporate a vapor chamber cooling system. This technology, common in high-end Android phones, uses copper pipes filled with liquid to efficiently dissipate heat.

As a result, users can expect better performance when shooting ProRes video or playing demanding 3D games without overheating.

RAM is also expected to be upgraded to 12GB - 50% more than the iPhone 16 lineup - optimizing on-device AI features under the Apple Intelligence platform.

Camera: 8x zoom, 8K video, and dual recording

Leaked documents from a Korean telecom provider reveal that the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max will feature a 48MP telephoto lens with 8x optical zoom - up from 5x on the iPhone 16 Pro. The front camera is also reportedly upgraded, potentially reaching 24MP.

8K video recording may become standard not only for the Pro models but across the entire iPhone 17 range. One standout feature rumored to be exclusive to the Pro models is the ability to record video simultaneously using the front and rear cameras.

Battery and charging: Larger capacity, wireless reverse charging

Another highlight is a larger battery, with a reported capacity of 5,000mAh - up from 4,685mAh in the iPhone 16 Pro Max. Paired with the energy-efficient chip and the new cooling system, this upgrade should provide exceptional battery life.

More importantly, the iPhone 17 Pro Max may support reverse wireless charging, allowing it to wirelessly charge devices like the upcoming AirPods 4 or AirPods Pro 3, also rumored to launch at the event.

With sweeping changes across design, display, camera, performance, battery, and charging, the iPhone 17 Pro Max is shaping up to be Apple’s most groundbreaking iPhone in years.

While official confirmation from Apple will come during the event on September 9, the 14 leaked features suggest the tech giant is making bold strides to stay at the forefront of the premium smartphone market.

Hai Phong