Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max are rumored to bring significant design changes, including larger dimensions and a new camera module. While Apple has maintained a square-shaped camera bump for its Pro models over the years, leaks suggest the iPhone 17 Pro may adopt a rectangular camera module reminiscent of the design seen on the Pixel 9 series.

Leaks from Apple’s Supply Chain

A post on Weibo, shared by user Jukanlosreve on X (formerly Twitter), reveals a purported image of the metal frame for the iPhone 17 Pro. The frame displays an unusual rectangular camera cutout, suggesting a significant redesign. According to the leaker, this new design features the ultra-wide-angle lens in the middle, reportedly to accommodate the front-facing structured light components (likely for Face ID).

Prominent leaker Digital Chat Station corroborated this information, claiming that the iPhone 17 Pro’s slim profile would pair with this design. However, confusion arose from mentions of a rumored iPhone 17 Slim/Air model, which is speculated to feature a single-camera setup—making the connection unlikely.

Camera Design and Industry Influence

The rectangular camera bump represents a departure from Apple’s traditional approach, aligning more with the aesthetic of some Android flagship models. This change could signal a broader design trend, as leakers suggest Android manufacturers may follow suit in adopting similar camera layouts in their 2025 flagship releases.

Apple has historically been a trendsetter in the smartphone industry, influencing Android brands to adopt features like:

• Removal of the headphone jack
• Exclusion of in-box chargers
• Innovations like the Camera Control button introduced with the iPhone 16 Pro series.

What to Expect

While details about the lens arrangement remain unclear, Apple’s move could improve functionality or aesthetics, likely with better integration of advanced camera technology. The larger frame of the iPhone 17 Pro also aligns with the possibility of improved battery life, display enhancements, and thermal management.

If the rumors hold true, the iPhone 17 Pro series could mark a significant shift in smartphone design, setting the tone for 2025 flagship devices across the industry.