Fresh leaks reveal several notable upgrades expected in the upcoming Apple event this September, where the iPhone 17 lineup is set to be unveiled.

With less than a month to go, the iPhone 17 series is expected to debut on September 9, featuring the standard iPhone 17, the lighter iPhone 17 Air, and two premium models: iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max.

Among them, the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max are tipped to bring the most significant upgrades, particularly a new camera bar design, which has already been widely leaked.

Beyond aesthetics, these two models are expected to feature a host of important changes users shouldn’t overlook.

48MP periscope telephoto camera

One of the most anticipated upgrades is the new telephoto lens. Apple is expected to move from the current 12MP sensor in the iPhone 16 Pro to a 48MP periscope-style telephoto camera, allowing 8x optical zoom without image degradation.

This will significantly improve long-range and low-light photography.

24MP front-facing camera

All models in the iPhone 17 series are rumored to receive an upgraded 24MP front-facing camera - double the resolution of the previous generation. This will enhance the detail and clarity of selfies and video calls.

8K video recording

For the first time, Apple may enable 8K video recording on the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max. If true, this would mark a major leap in video quality, setting a new benchmark in the premium smartphone segment.

All-new horizontal camera bar

The most visible change lies in the horizontal camera bar at the top of the back panel, housing all lenses and the LiDAR system. Leaks suggest that Apple will also reposition its logo for visual balance.

Aluminum frame replacing titanium

In a move likely to spark debate, Apple may replace the titanium frame used in the iPhone 16 Pro with a lighter aluminum frame on the iPhone 17 Pro. Although aluminum reduces weight, it is generally seen as less durable and luxurious than titanium.

New A19 Pro chip

The iPhone 17 Pro series is almost certain to be powered by Apple’s new A19 Pro chip, manufactured using TSMC’s third-generation 3nm process. The chip promises enhanced performance and better energy efficiency.

12GB RAM upgrade

Apple is expected to increase RAM from 8GB in the iPhone 16 Pro to 12GB in the iPhone 17 Pro models. This is especially relevant as Apple leans further into AI features and multitasking.

Improved thermal system

To support the power of the A19 Pro chip, Apple is rumored to enhance the cooling system. The iPhone 17 Pro Max may use a vapor chamber combined with graphite layers to maintain performance during heavy tasks and prevent overheating.

Apple-designed Wi-Fi 7 chip

To reduce dependence on Qualcomm, Apple may introduce its own Wi-Fi 7 chip, promising faster, more stable connections and better power efficiency. However, the Qualcomm 5G modem will still be used this year.

Price hike of $50, but higher base storage

Leaks indicate the iPhone 17 Pro could see a $50 price increase over its predecessor. To balance this, Apple may eliminate the 128GB option and start with 256GB, providing more value upfront.

New vibrant orange color

Apple is reportedly introducing a striking new orange color for the Pro models, marking a rare move for the typically muted Pro lineup. Other expected colors include deep blue, silver/white, and black.

A more premium experience overall

From camera and processor upgrades to RAM, thermal improvements, and bold design choices, the iPhone 17 Pro aims to be a major force in the high-end smartphone market in 2025, going head-to-head with the Samsung Galaxy S25 and Google Pixel 10 Pro.

Rather than a typical refresh, the iPhone 17 Pro series represents a bold redefinition of premium smartphones. Despite a potential price increase, features such as the 48MP telephoto lens, A19 Pro chip, and 256GB base storage suggest Apple is offering more value than ever.

Hai Phong