Welcome to Rumor Replay, a weekly segment in DMN where we summarize the latest rumors surrounding Apple products, providing insights and commentary. In this edition: a leak regarding the iPhone 17 Air, details on Apple’s upcoming spring products, redesigns for iOS 19, and more. Here’s a look at the latest Apple rumors.
Leaks reveal iPhone 17 Air’s camera bar design
A leaked image has provided potentially the first look at the upcoming iPhone 17 Air, aligning with CAD drawings previously reported by DMN. The image features a full-width ‘camera bar’ located on the back, marking a significant departure from the corner bump seen in existing iPhone models.
My analysis
This leak regarding the iPhone 17 Air indicates a considerable shift in design, consistent with earlier speculations. Both the 17 Air and 17 Pro models have been anticipated to showcase some form of a rectangular bump. Notably, this development is intriguing for the Air since it will reportedly include only a single rear camera.
The size of the ‘camera bar’ also provides context for Ming Chi-Kuo’s earlier remark that the 17 Air will measure 5.5mm at its ‘thinnest point.’ A tapered design could clarify this statement, but given the prominence of the camera, Kuo’s observation seems valid even without extreme changes.
Details on Apple’s spring product lineup
This week, multiple rumors surfaced regarding two anticipated spring releases from Apple.
First, a leaked asset suggests the new iPhone SE may include a Dynamic Island. Furthermore, Mark Gurman noted that the stock of the current SE model is dwindling at Apple Stores, hinting at an upcoming refresh and likely discontinuation of the existing model.
Lastly, while there have been differing reports on whether the new iPad Air will feature an M3 or M4 chip, recent code references lend support to the possibility of an M3 upgrade.
My analysis
The developments surrounding the iPhone SE are particularly captivating.
If the new SE indeed will come with a Dynamic Island, the base iPhone 16 will lose one of its few competitive edges over the more affordable model. While this could be beneficial for budget-oriented consumers, it raises questions about the rationale behind such a change. I still lean toward believing a standard notch is more likely.
The decreasing inventory of the current iPhone SE models suggests that Apple does not intend to continue selling the older version at a lower price point, which isn’t entirely unexpected; however, it’s possible they might still market it in developing regions.
Regarding the iPad Air, whether it features the M3 or M4 chip isn’t a significant differentiation, but choosing to use the M3 maintains a clearer distinction from the iPad Pro series. I’m left wondering about the justification for such a quick and minor refresh unless this new Air has a hidden upgrade that hasn’t yet been revealed.
Redesigns for iOS 19 Camera app and macOS 15.4 Mail
Jon Prosser revealed on YouTube that Apple is preparing to overhaul the Camera app in iOS 19, potentially affecting other system apps as well. The update aims to introduce a visionOS-inspired translucency aesthetic.
In the realm of software, Mark Gurman shared that the substantial redesign of Apple Mail for iPhone will soon extend to Mac and iPad users. This update is projected to be included in macOS 15.4 and iPadOS 15.4, set to release in April.
My analysis
The prospect of a visionOS-style visual update for iOS 19 excites me. However, if implemented, it will likely only impact a limited range of applications.
Apple’s trend of introducing major redesigns seems to be behind us, as they have shifted to making smaller, iterative refinements to various apps and system components over time.
I remain hopeful that Prosser is correct and Apple will roll out some compelling design upgrades this year.
As for the expected Mail changes on Mac and iPad, it’s encouraging to know we won’t have to wait long for them. Although I have disabled some features from iOS 18.2’s updates for Mail on my iPhone, I value consistency across all devices.
Upgraded cooling system for iPhone 17
In closing today, a new rumor originating from the Chinese tech website MyDrivers suggests that Apple is implementing modifications across the entire iPhone 17 lineup to enhance device cooling.
Ming-Chi Kuo had previously indicated that the 17 Pro Max would incorporate a vapor chamber to complement its graphite sheet cooling method, but it appears that upgrades won’t be exclusive to just that model.
My analysis
While the source might be somewhat speculative, this rumor seems quite plausible. Apple’s push for significant hardware advancements reflects a shift in their strategy, which includes increasing RAM across iPhones, iPads, and Macs, implementing unique Apple silicon enhancements, and now improving cooling systems, all of which lay the groundwork for notable future AI developments.
What are your thoughts regarding this week’s Apple rumors? Share your opinions in the comments.
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