With all intentions gearing up for a phenomenal leap in smartphone photography with the new arrivals, the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max, slated to launch in September 2025. Both Pro models are speculated to offer an upgraded triple 48MP cameras and a new redesign of the camera module.
A triple 48MP camera system: A first for iPhone
For the first time in Apple history, the rear camera system will consist entirely of 48MP lenses, which will be used in the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max, as a report from Digital Chat Station on Weibo said. The upcoming device will have a system featuring a 48MP Fusion lens as the main camera, 48MP ultra-wide lens, and an upgraded 48MP Tetraprism telephoto lens in place of the 12MP telephoto lens that was part of the iPhone 16 Pro series.
Notably, the main camera will be downsized to a smaller 1/1.3-inch sensor from 1/1.28 inches on the iPhone 16 Pro. While the downgrade may seem like a step in the wrong direction, analyst do not think it should make a real difference in practical photography. Rather, Apple should be compensating for this reduction in sensor size in other ways. The prisms inside are expected to be better as well as the lenses, hybrid glass-plastic of the main and telephoto.
Enhanced zoom and front camera upgrades
The new Tetraprism telephoto lens should provide a significant improvement in the quality of images and zoom performance. In addition, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, wrote that this design includes shorter prisms designed on an individual basis to decrease the height of the camera. In turn, these improvements help facilitate a thinner design. Thus, such efforts by Apple towards the advancement of the zoom capability in smartphones make the devices better.
Moreover, both the Pro models are said to carry an advanced 24MP camera at the front, where a significant jump is apparent from the 12MP front cameras in the iPhone 16 series. As sources have confirmed from Kuo and Jeff Pu, this upgrade is being executed with six-piece lens design for better image quality and low-light performance.
Redesigned camera module and aluminum back cover
Aside from camera improvements, a new shape is to be designed for the module in iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max. According to leaked reports, a longer, thinner oval aluminum version of the bump shall replace the long rectangular glass modules seen on prior versions. As such, a seamless flow would be generated in between the bump and rear cover.
The aluminum move, in fact, forms part of a far broader design overhaul. The Pro models will be equipped with a half-aluminum, half-glass back cover. The new design should make it more durable while still offering premium feel.
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A look ahead
Apple’s strategy of smartphone photography and design will be redefined through iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max. Its triple 48MP rear camera, 24MP front camera, and a refreshed camera module make it well positioned.
As Apple works on these enhancements, the firm is also rumored to launch a new four-model line. Plus, it could possibly remove the “Plus” model and replace it with a thinner “iPhone 17 Air.” With these improvements in the horizon, the iPhone 17 series looks to bring something for every fan of Apple.
More will be known on Apple’s next generation of smartphones that should launch in the early months of September 2025. So, stay tuned with us.