Image Credit: screenshot from ftp

Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro is shaping up to be one of the most significant redesigns in years. Following a disappointing feedback to last year’s lineup, Apple appears to be taking dramatic steps to revamp its flagship smartphone’s design. While early renders and leaks suggested significant improvements, new reports provide a clearer picture of what to expect when the iPhone 17 Pro launches later this year.

One of the most discussed rumors was a complete overhaul of the camera system, featuring a horizontal camera bar spanning the width of the device, similar to Google’s Pixel lineup. Some early renders even suggested a new two-tone design that would make the back of the iPhone stand out in a way never seen before. However, the latest leaks reveal that while Apple is indeed introducing a horizontal camera element, the core camera layout remains largely unchanged.

In a YouTube video, Front Page Tech stated that the rear camera module will still feature the well-known triangular arrangement. Internal design constraints forced the rumored fully horizontal camera alignment to be scrapped. FTP also stated that “the dynamic island which houses the front-facing camera and Face ID sensors occupies a lot more space internally than one might expect, and there’s literally no more room so the third lens has to be placed below the face ID array.” The placement of the internal components and space constraints within the device made previous rumored camera design impossible. Instead, Apple has taken for a more practical approach, adding a darker horizontal camera bar while keeping the familiar camera layout on the left. This design decision gives the phone a distinct two-tone aesthetic without sacrificing existing hardware efficiency.

Apple is reportedly experimenting with different materials for the iPhone 17 Pro. While recent Pro models featured titanium, sources suggest Apple may switch back to aluminum to achieve a lighter device. Test units reportedly feel lighter, though it remains unclear whether this change is finalized. If Apple does transition to aluminum, it would mark a notable shift in its approach to premium materials.

Despite the updated rear design, some elements are expected to remain unchanged. The Dynamic Island, introduced with the iPhone 14 Pro, will reportedly stay the same size, refuting earlier rumors of a smaller cutout. Additionally, the front-facing design is expected to be largely similar to previous models, with most of the visual changes concentrated on the back of the device.

Apple has historically set design trends in the smartphone industry, but some analysts suggest the iPhone 17 Pro’s design choices reflect external influences. Like the two-tone appearance is more reminiscent of competitors’ designs rather than Apple’s traditional look. While this shift may make the iPhone 17 Pro look fresh, some question whether it’s a step forward in functionality or simply a change for the sake of change.

With an expected launch in September, the iPhone 17 Pro is poised to bring notable, if not revolutionary, design updates. The combination of a familiar camera layout with a bold new rear design signals Apple’s attempt to balance continuity with innovation. Whether this redesign will be embraced by users remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the iPhone 17 Pro is set to be one of the most talked-about Apple devices in years.

Sources: fpt YouTube Video