Apple’s “Awe dropping” September event is now just around the corner, and the iPhone 17 lineup has already been the subject of a steady stream of leaks. While the overall design and model names appear locked in, the bigger question is what these devices will actually be capable of. A new leak from a South Korean carrier has highlighted some of the most notable changes, especially for the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max.
The carrier documentation highlights that both Pro models will debut an 8x telephoto camera system, marking a huge jump over the 5x zoom of the iPhone 16 Pro. For the first time, Apple is equipping both Pro models with triple 48MP rear cameras, a setup that will also support 8K video recording. This would place Apple in direct competition with Samsung and Google’s most advanced phones, while finally addressing criticism of its more conservative zoom capabilities.
To manage the performance demands of these upgrades, Apple is said to be introducing vapor chamber cooling to the iPhone 17 Pro line. This system, already seen in high-end Android phones, helps dissipate heat away from the processor and GPU, allowing sustained performance during tasks like 3D gaming or extended ProRes video recording. Combined with the new aluminum unibody chassis, the design should deliver far better thermal efficiency than before.
The leaked document also details a boost in memory and battery capacity. Pro models are expected to come with 12 GB of RAM and, in the case of the iPhone 17 Pro Max, a 5,000 mAh battery, the largest ever in an iPhone. This suggests Apple is prioritizing endurance alongside performance. Meanwhile, all four iPhone 17 models, including the iPhone 17 Air and base iPhone 17, are expected to feature a new 24MP front camera for sharper selfies and video calls.
The iPhone 17 Air is rumored to stand out as Apple’s thinnest phone yet at just 5.5mm, borrowing design cues from the MacBook Air and iPad Air. Despite its slim frame, it will ship with the A19 chip, a 6.6-inch OLED panel, and ProMotion display support. Standard models will continue to see incremental upgrades, including high-density batteries and fresh color options such as orange, navy blue, and light gold.
Pricing is expected to remain close to last year’s structure, with the iPhone 17 starting around $799, the Air at $899, the Pro at $999, and the Pro Max topping out near $1,250. These figures align with global price patterns but may vary by region.
With 24 hours to go until Tim Cook takes the stage, the iPhone 17 Pro lineup already looks set to define Apple’s biggest camera and performance leap in years. If the leaks prove accurate, this generation could mark the start of a new chapter in how Apple balances design, power, and professional-grade features.
(via @Jukanlosreve)
