It’s been a long time since Apple introduced a truly different-looking iPhone 17 Pro Max. Going back to 2019, despite a couple of redesigns, iPhones have essentially looked the same. Many users are bored with this, so what is Apple planning next?
In 2025, the Pro models are set to receive their biggest update in history with the introduction of the radically different iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max. There are numerous changes both inside and out, making this the Pro iPhone we’ve always wanted to see. Let’s explore the three major design changes Apple has planned.
New Camera Bar
Apple is making a dramatic shift from the years-old triangular camera design to a completely new camera bar system. This is the first time Apple has moved the camera from the top left corner since the original iPhone in 2007.
The iPhone 17 Pro will feature wide, ultra-wide, and telephoto lenses stacked in a horizontal line. Additionally, the telephoto 5x lens will finally get a 48-megapixel upgrade, making it one of the most powerful camera systems on any smartphone. Apple is also shifting to an aluminum camera bar instead of the current raised 3D glass, giving it a more refined look.
No More Titanium
The second major design change is the chassis material. While you might assume Apple would continue using titanium, they are switching back to aluminum. This marks the first time since 2016 that Apple has used aluminum for its flagship high-end iPhones.
Reliable sources confirm this switch, which will result in significant weight savings compared to stainless steel or titanium. There are also rumors of an aluminum-titanium combo material, but the exact implementation remains unclear. Glass will continue to be a central part of the design, and Apple is maintaining the current Pro models’ screen sizes—6.3 inches for the Pro and 6.9 inches for the Pro Max.
Additionally, Apple is improving screen durability with enhanced scratch resistance and a new anti-reflective layer, improving outdoor visibility.
Smaller Dynamic Island
The third major design change is a smaller Dynamic Island. Rumored for years, Apple is finally making it a reality in 2025. The company is using meta-lens technology, which is significantly thinner than traditional lens systems.
Apple is also upgrading the front camera from a 12-megapixel sensor to a 24-megapixel one. This will result in the biggest improvement ever for front-facing photos and videos on an iPhone.
While a smaller Dynamic Island may seem like a minor change, it represents Apple’s continued progress toward an all-display iPhone. Similar to how the notch evolved into the Dynamic Island, Apple is taking another step toward a future where there are no visible sensors on the screen.
Major Internal Upgrades
Beyond design changes, the iPhone 17 Pro is receiving significant internal upgrades.
12GB RAM for AI
The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max will see a jump from 8GB to 12GB of RAM. This upgrade will enhance Apple Intelligence features and improve performance for AI-based tasks and apps like ChatGPT. Apple’s AI features in 2024 have been underwhelming, but 2025 could mark a major shift.
Apple-designed Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
Apple is making a bold move by designing its own Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth chips for the iPhone 17 Pro. This marks Apple’s entry into the Wi-Fi chip industry, ensuring better optimization and reliability. The company has already proven its ability to design superior chips with its A-series and M-series silicon, and this expansion into connectivity is highly promising.
Apple 5G Modem
Apple is also developing its own 5G modem, expected to launch in 2026. When it debuts in the iPhone 17 Pro, it will reportedly be nearly as fast as competing modems, showing Apple’s rapid progress in this field.
Conclusion
With a new camera bar, a return to aluminum, a smaller Dynamic Island, and major internal upgrades, the iPhone 17 Pro is shaping up to be the most exciting Pro iPhone ever. Apple’s 2025 models will redefine the iPhone experience with improved AI capabilities, better connectivity, and a striking new design. This could be the iPhone upgrade that finally feels fresh and innovative again.
