As rumors began circulating about the iPhone 17 Air, it initially resembled an Ultra model. However, with new information coming to light, the Air moniker seems to fit better. Yet, as fresh speculations about another iPhone model arise, it seems we might actually see an iPhone 17 Ultra this year—but potentially in an unexpected form.
Three Rumors Suggest the iPhone 17 Pro Max Could Differ from Expectations
With each new rumor surrounding the iPhone 17 Pro Max, my speculation that Apple might be gearing up for an Ultra rebranding grows stronger.
Typically, the iPhone Pro and Pro Max models share most features aside from size, and the Pro Max usually enjoys a slight battery advantage due to its larger dimensions.
Occasionally, the Pro Max gets a camera feature ahead of the standard Pro model, but this is inconsistent. For instance, the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max have no difference in features whatsoever.
Yet, persistent rumors suggest that the iPhone 17 Pro Max will be set apart from the 17 Pro.
For instance, predictions suggest the 17 Pro Max will showcase a narrowed Dynamic Island, thanks to special “metalens” technology which may help compact Face ID components.
Additionally, the iPhone 17 Pro Max might feature a unique vapor chamber cooling system along with a graphite sheet.
While these rumors alone didn’t convince me of an impending Ultra rebrand, the latest one certainly does.
According to insider Ice Universe, the iPhone 17 Pro Max will see a significant increase in thickness compared to its predecessor. The reported dimensions are as follows:
- iPhone 17 Pro Max: 8.725mm
- iPhone 16 Pro Max: 8.25mm
This modification is expected to accommodate a larger battery in the new model.
This particular rumor prompted me to contemplate the potential for an iPhone 17 Ultra name change.
iPhone 17 Pro Max May Be the First iPhone Ultra
At first glance, making the iPhone 17 Pro Max thicker—thus inevitably increasing its weight—feels rather unusual in a year when the iPhone 17 Air is also being launched.
When the Pro lineup faces stiff competition from a sleek new model, why would you make the Pro versions bulkier?
Only if the aim is to create more distinction within the Pro line.
Adding to this, rumors suggest that the standard 17 Pro will not undergo similar changes and will retain its dimensions, weight, battery life, and so forth.
Conversely, the 17 Pro Max trends towards the opposite direction.
It aims to stand out not only from the 17 Air but also from the 17 Pro significantly.
This strategy strongly resembles Apple’s approach with the Apple Watch Ultra in comparison to the Apple Watch Series 10.
It appears that Apple is preparing a similar strategy with the new Pro Max model as compared to the 17 Air and even the 17 Pro.
In essence, it looks like we may witness the debut of the very first iPhone Ultra this year.
iPhone 17 Ultra: A Streamlined Lineup
If Apple does decide to rebrand the iPhone 17 Pro Max as the iPhone 17 Ultra, we can anticipate a more streamlined lineup this fall:
- iPhone 17
- iPhone 17 Air
- iPhone 17 Pro
- iPhone 17 Ultra
The iPhone 17 would serve as the basic entry-level model, while offering the latest features at the most affordable price.
The iPhone 17 Air would trade off additional cameras, power, and battery life in favor of a slim, ultra-light design.
The iPhone 17 Pro would showcase the more powerful A19 Pro chip, three rear cameras, and various Pro functionalities.
Lastly, the iPhone 17 Ultra would likely have the best battery performance in the range, along with a superior display enabled by a more compact Dynamic Island. It would cater to users seeking “the most advanced iPhone.”
This proposed lineup makes a lot of sense to me.
It also seemingly presents the most interesting new iPhone range in recent years. The 17 Air is poised to captivate users for several reasons, while the high-end Ultra model stands out as well. This structure would simplify Apple’s pricing strategy, which I anticipate they’ll implement.
What are your thoughts on the potential use of the iPhone 17 Ultra name? Share your opinions in the comments.
