Next year promises to be transformative for the iPhone, featuring an enticing new iPhone SE 4 in spring and the sleek iPhone 17 Air in fall. But what’s in store for Apple’s premier Pro models? Here are seven exciting features expected in the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max in 2025.
24MP Front-Facing Camera
Every year, the iPhone’s camera technology improves, frequently focusing on enhancements to the rear cameras.
However, with the complete iPhone 17 lineup, Apple is set to elevate the front camera from a 12MP sensor to an entirely new 24MP sensor, promising significant enhancements.
It’s high time the selfie camera’s quality matches that of the iPhone’s rear camera.
A19 Pro Chip
Apple will continue its tradition of upgrading the iPhones with the latest A-series chip, and in 2025, it will be the A19 Pro chip.
This top-tier silicon will be exclusive to the 17 Pro and Pro Max models. Even though the new 17 Air model is expected to capture the attention of many Pro users, it will come with the standard A19 chip, similar to the basic iPhone 17.
12GB RAM: A First for the iPhone
The rise of AI has made RAM increasingly crucial in Apple’s devices. iPhone 15 owners are acutely aware of this, having faced compatibility issues with Apple Intelligence due to RAM constraints.
In 2025, the 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max models will feature an impressive 12GB of RAM— the highest ever in an iPhone.
This represents a substantial 50% increase compared to the 8GB of RAM in the 16 Pro, a limit that will persist in both the standard iPhone 17 and the 17 Air.
Apple’s Custom Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Chip
For several years, Apple has been developing its own modems—one for 5G and another for Wi-Fi. Both initiatives are now nearing completion.
The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max are anticipated to utilize Apple’s new combined Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip, with a possibility of the remaining lineup following suit.
However, only the 17 Air will feature Apple’s internal 5G modem, while the Pro models are expected to continue using Qualcomm’s more advanced modem for another year.
Enhanced ‘Rectangular’ Camera Bump
Much like the approach taken with this year’s 16 Pro models, Apple is reinforcing the Pro line’s focus on camera optimization.
The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max are reported to feature a ‘larger rectangular camera bump,’ likely introducing new capabilities.
The upper section of the Pro models may showcase a full-width aluminum design, while the lower half will maintain its conventional glass backing for wireless charging.
Revised Frame Featuring Aluminum
This feature is particularly intriguing: the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max will adopt a newly designed frame, transitioning from titanium to aluminum.
Having just introduced titanium for the Pro models in 2023, this switch to aluminum raises questions that we’ll be eager to hear Apple’s reasoning behind.
Narrower Dynamic Island on Pro Max
Lastly, here’s a unique update for the iPhone 17 Pro Max: a slimmer Dynamic Island than ever before.
Details remain limited, but this alteration may coincide with Face ID being integrated into the Pro Max’s screen. No definitive reports have confirmed this as of yet, but it is anticipated that the high-end model will introduce a much slimmer Dynamic Island.
iPhone 17 Pro Features: Summary
This overview of the iPhone 17 Pro features emphasizes my belief that deciding on a purchase in 2025 will be more challenging than ever.
The sleek iPhone 17 Air seems incredibly appealing, but Pro users might have to make too many compromises to switch.
Which iPhone 17 Pro features are you most eager about? Are you considering the 17 Air or sticking with the Pro? Share your thoughts in the comments.
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