iPhone SE 4 out next week? Tim Cook's just teased a new Apple launch
The iPhone SE 3 hit shelves in 2022 but, while relatively affordable, it always felt like a relic from the past. With chunky bezels, a honking home button, and a recycled design lifted straight from the iPhone 8 blueprint, it was already lagging behind Apple's more modern handsets – and it's even more out of step with the times in 2025.
Now, though, rumours suggest Apple is finally ready to give its budget phone a long-overdue refresh. If the leaks are to be believed, the iPhone SE 4 could feature a larger display, Face ID and a switch to USB-C.
While the phone was first rumoured to launch earlier this week, Apple instead decided to unveil the Powerbeats Pro 2 earbuds, as well as the launch of Apple TV+ on Android. Thankfully, we do know the new iPhone SE is very likely to launch next week. Why? Because Apple CEO Tim Cook has just teased a new launch in a social media post. Here's everything we know about the iPhone SE 4...
Apple iPhone SE 4 release date
Apple CEO Tim Cook has just announced the date of the company's next launch: Wednesday 19 February. Cook told fans to 'get ready to meet the newest member of the family'.
While he didn't elaborate further, the newest member of the family is most likely the relatively affordable iPhone SE 4, though, he could also be talking about the 11th-generation iPad, or the rumoured MacBook Air M4, or even a new second-generation AirTag – Apple's got a lot of devices up its sleeve in the coming weeks.
Whatever it is, we should find out next week, and all signs right now point to it being a new iPhone SE 4.
Apple iPhone SE 4 price: How much could the handset cost?
The iPhone SE has always been Apple's cheapest iPhone – and we don't expect that to change with the SE 4. That said, it's likely to see a price increase. When it launched in 2022, the iPhone SE 3 started at £419 for the 64GB model, but with iPhone prices creeping up in recent years, the next iteration could follow suit.
For context, the iPhone 14 launched at £779 in 2022, while the iPhone 16 now costs £799 – a £20 increase. The iPhone 16 Pro has jumped by £50 compared to the iPhone 14 Pro, while the Pro Max has seen the steepest rise – £150 more expensive than its 2022 counterpart. If Apple follows a similar pricing trend with the SE 4, the budget iPhone could creep closer to the £450-£500 mark.
That would also put it more in line with the competition. Google's budget handset – the Pixel 8a – launched at £499, while the Samsung Galaxy A55 debuted at £439.
According to a Japanese carrier leak, the iPhone SE 4 could see a $70 price increase in the US, bringing it to $499 – the same price as the Google Pixel 8a. If the UK gets a similar price hike, the iPhone SE 4 could cost £489.
Apple iPhone SE 4 design, display and name
Rumours about the iPhone SE 4's design have been circulating since 2023, with most suggesting that the new budget smartphone will resemble the iPhone 14. At the end of 2023, sources told MacRumors that the next iPhone SE will have the body and display of the base iPhone 14, with a few distinct changes.
According to the publication, the iPhone SE 4 will feature a 6.1in OLED display and a near bezel-less design, similar to the iPhone 14. It will also ditch the home button (and Touch ID) in favour of Face ID. This would be a big upgrade for the smartphone, which has always used a cheaper LCD panel.
The phone could also have a USB-C port, like the iPhone 15 and later models, as well as an action button on the side in place of the mute switch. However, it reportedly won't have a Dynamic Island, instead sticking with the notch. Last month, a video of a dummy unit surfaced online, showing the rumoured iPhone SE 4 with a notch, action button, USB-C port and a single rear camera.
Interestingly, several leakers have also claimed the iPhone SE 4 will be renamed the iPhone 16E, suggesting it could be a more budget-friendly version of the current line-up, potentially supporting Apple Intelligence and featuring the same chipset.
Apple iPhone SE 4 specs and features
That name change seems even more likely when you look at the potential specs of the upcoming handset. New iPhone SE models always come equipped with the latest chipset from the previous year – meaning it could get the iPhone 16's powerful A18 chipset, enabling it to take advantage of Apple Intelligence features. According to Mark Gurman, these features will be available on the iPhone SE 4.
Last year, Gurman also claimed the iPhone SE 4 will be the first iPhone to use a 5G modem manufactured entirely by Apple instead of one from Qualcomm. He says this modem will be more efficient, consume less power, and provide better support for network connections.
Apple iPhone SE 4 camera
While the upcoming iPhone SE 4 is rumoured to feature a significant camera upgrade over the iPhone SE 3, it's still expected to stick with a single-camera system on the rear.
One report suggests it will be equipped with a single 48MP rear camera, the same as the main camera on the iPhone 15 and iPhone 16. The iPhone SE 3, by comparison, only has a 12MP rear camera.
The front-facing camera is also expected to see an upgrade, reportedly increasing from a 7MP selfie camera to a 12MP lens.
Of course, everything here should be taken with a pinch of salt – until we hear it from Apple itself, nothing is official. But we're certainly intrigued.
The iPhone 14 is the device the iPhone SE 4 is rumoured to look like most but, unlike the predicted iPhone SE 4's single camera system, the iPhone 14 has a dual-camera setup on the rear. Our tech critic, David Phelan, gave the phone 4.5 out of 5 stars in his review. 'This is a fast and attractive smartphone, with Apple's excellent design and build quality, the now-routine features, such as water resistance and strong screen, and a significantly improved camera,' he said. Now, you can pick up the iPhone 14 with £100 off at Amazon.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Geeky Gadgets
a minute ago
- Geeky Gadgets
iPhone Fold (2026): A Complete Breakdown of Leaks and Rumors
Apple is reportedly preparing to unveil its first iPhone Fold in 2026, a development that could significantly impact the premium smartphone market. By combining advanced materials, innovative engineering, and a focus on user experience, this device is expected to set new standards in mobile technology. Below is an in-depth look at the key aspects of this highly anticipated release in a new video from Matt Talks Tech. Watch this video on YouTube. Design: A Fusion of Durability and Sophistication The foldable iPhone is rumored to feature a titanium chassis, chosen for its exceptional strength and lightweight properties. This material not only enhances the device's durability but also enables a thinner and more refined design. When unfolded, the device is expected to measure between 4.5 and 4.8 mm in thickness, while its folded form will range from 9 to 9.5 mm. This sleek profile underscores Apple's dedication to creating devices that are both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional. Apple's design philosophy has always emphasized a balance between form and function, and the foldable iPhone appears to be no exception. The titanium build is likely to provide a premium feel while making sure the device can withstand the rigors of daily use. This approach reflects Apple's ongoing commitment to pushing the boundaries of smartphone design. Display Innovation: Dual Screens for Versatile Use The foldable iPhone is expected to feature two distinct displays, each tailored for specific tasks: Outer Screen: A compact 5.5-inch display, reminiscent of the iPhone Plus models, designed for quick interactions such as notifications, calls, and messaging. A compact 5.5-inch display, reminiscent of the iPhone Plus models, designed for quick interactions such as notifications, calls, and messaging. Inner Screen: A larger 7.8-inch display, offering a tablet-like experience ideal for multitasking, media consumption, and productivity. To address one of the most common challenges with foldable devices—visible creases on the screen—Apple is rumored to be incorporating liquid hinge technology. This innovation is designed to minimize creases while enhancing the overall durability of the device. The seamless integration of these displays is expected to deliver a smooth and immersive user experience, aligning with Apple's reputation for precision engineering. Touch ID Returns with Enhanced Convenience Apple is reportedly reintroducing Touch ID, integrated directly into the power button. This feature offers a secure and convenient method for unlocking the device, complementing the existing Face ID system. By providing both biometric authentication options, Apple ensures greater flexibility for users, catering to a variety of preferences and usage scenarios. The return of Touch ID could also appeal to users who value privacy and prefer an alternative to facial recognition. This dual-authentication approach highlights Apple's focus on enhancing both security and usability in its devices. Camera System: Compact Design, Powerful Performance The foldable iPhone is expected to feature a dual-camera system, equipped with wide and ultra-wide lenses. While this setup mirrors the standard iPhone models, it avoids the added bulk of a triple-camera array, making it a practical choice for a foldable device. Despite its streamlined design, the camera system is likely to deliver high-quality images and videos, maintaining Apple's reputation for excellence in mobile photography. Apple's decision to prioritize a compact yet capable camera system reflects its understanding of the unique challenges posed by foldable devices. By focusing on essential features without compromising performance, the company aims to provide a well-rounded photography experience. Battery Technology: Balancing Efficiency and Power Battery performance is a critical consideration for any smartphone, and Apple appears to be addressing this with the introduction of carbon-lithium battery technology. This next-generation innovation is expected to deliver: Improved energy efficiency to support the device's dual screens and advanced features. to support the device's dual screens and advanced features. Longer battery life to meet the demands of modern users. to meet the demands of modern users. Enhanced performance for seamless multitasking and high-intensity applications. For a device with such advanced hardware, this battery technology is essential to ensure a reliable and consistent user experience. Apple's focus on energy efficiency aligns with its broader commitment to sustainability and innovation. Release Timeline and Pricing The foldable iPhone is expected to debut in September 2026, in line with Apple's traditional iPhone launch schedule. Positioned as a premium product, the device is likely to target a niche audience, with an estimated starting price of $2,000 USD. Storage options are rumored to include: 256 GB for the base model 512 GB for a higher-tier variant This pricing strategy positions the foldable iPhone as a luxury device, complementing Apple's existing product lineup. While the high price point may limit its accessibility, it underscores the device's status as a innovative innovation. Implications for the Smartphone Industry Apple's rumored foldable iPhone represents a significant step forward in smartphone design and functionality. By integrating a titanium build, dual screens, liquid hinge technology, and advanced features like Touch ID and carbon-lithium batteries, the device is poised to offer a unique combination of durability, versatility, and performance. Although its premium pricing may restrict its appeal to a specific segment of consumers, the foldable iPhone has the potential to influence the broader market. Apple's entry into the foldable smartphone space could drive competitors to innovate further, ultimately benefiting consumers through increased competition and technological advancements. This device reinforces Apple's position as a leader in the tech industry, setting the stage for the next evolution in mobile technology. Here are more detailed guides and articles that you may find helpful on Foldable iPhone. Source & Image Credit: Matt Talks Tech Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPhone, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Geeky Gadgets
2 hours ago
- Geeky Gadgets
The $599 MacBook: Apple's Secret Weapon
Apple is preparing to disrupt the budget laptop market with its upcoming MacBook, priced between $599 and $699. This new device is positioned to compete directly with Chromebooks, appealing to students, casual users, and budget-conscious buyers. By offering a full macOS experience at an accessible price, Apple aims to strengthen its foothold in the education and entry-level markets while maintaining its reputation for quality, innovation, and seamless ecosystem integration. This strategic move signals Apple's intent to broaden its audience, making its ecosystem more inclusive and accessible. The new MacBook is not just a product—it's a calculated step toward redefining what affordable computing can mean for users worldwide. The video below from SaranByte gives us more details about the rumored budget MacBook. Watch this video on YouTube. Why This MacBook Matters Apple's entry into the budget laptop space is a direct challenge to Chromebooks, which have long dominated the education sector due to their affordability and simplicity. With a starting price of $599, this MacBook becomes Apple's most affordable laptop to date, offering a compelling alternative for users who prioritize build quality, macOS functionality, and access to professional-grade software. This device is more than just a low-cost option; it serves as an entry point for first-time Mac users. By lowering the price barrier, Apple can attract a broader audience, including students and casual users who may have previously considered Apple products out of reach. This strategy not only expands Apple's customer base but also strengthens its ecosystem by fostering long-term customer loyalty. For users who value performance, design, and ecosystem integration, this MacBook offers a unique proposition. It bridges the gap between affordability and quality, making sure that users no longer have to compromise on essential features to stay within budget. Specifications and Features: What to Expect The new MacBook is expected to feature a 12.9-inch display, slightly smaller than the 13.6-inch screen on the MacBook Air. Its lightweight design and vibrant color options—silver, blue, pink, and yellow—are tailored to appeal to younger users and students. At its core, the device will house the A18 Pro chipset, repurposed from the iPhone 16 Pro, delivering performance comparable to the original M1 chip. This ensures smooth multitasking and compatibility with macOS applications, even at a lower price point. Key specifications include: A base configuration of 8GB RAM , with an optional upgrade to 16GB for enhanced multitasking capabilities. , with an optional upgrade to 16GB for enhanced multitasking capabilities. Standard USB-C ports , reflecting its budget-friendly positioning, but lacking Thunderbolt support. , reflecting its budget-friendly positioning, but lacking Thunderbolt support. Limited external display support and reduced GPU performance compared to higher-end M-series models. While these features are modest compared to Apple's premium laptops, they are well-suited for the target audience of students and casual users. The device strikes a balance between affordability and functionality, making sure that essential tasks like web browsing, document editing, and media consumption are handled effortlessly. Balancing Affordability with Compromises To achieve its competitive price, Apple has made deliberate compromises. The new MacBook will lack certain premium features, such as Touch ID and True Tone display technology, which are standard in higher-end models. Additionally, the absence of Thunderbolt support and reliance on standard USB-C ports further emphasize its budget-friendly nature. These trade-offs are unlikely to deter the primary audience of students and casual users, who prioritize affordability and functionality over advanced features. However, professionals requiring high-end performance or specialized features may find this device less appealing. For its intended audience, the MacBook's performance, macOS integration, and build quality outweigh these limitations, making it a practical and attractive choice. Strategic Implications for Apple The introduction of this budget MacBook has significant implications for Apple's market strategy. Analysts predict annual sales of 5–7 million units, potentially boosting MacBook shipments by up to 40%. By offering a high-quality alternative to Chromebooks, Apple can attract users who value macOS but previously found the price prohibitive. However, this strategy is not without risks. The new MacBook could potentially cannibalize sales of iPads in a similar price range, particularly among students and casual users. Despite this, Apple's focus on keeping users within its ecosystem ensures long-term benefits. Once users invest in a MacBook, they are more likely to purchase other Apple products and services, such as AirPods, iPhones, or iCloud subscriptions, further strengthening their loyalty to the brand. This move also positions Apple as a more inclusive brand, appealing to a wider demographic without compromising its core values of quality and innovation. By entering the budget laptop market, Apple is not only expanding its product lineup but also redefining its role in the broader computing landscape. Launch Timeline and Target Audience Reports suggest that mass production of the new MacBook could begin as early as late 2023, with a potential announcement in October or November, aligning with the holiday season. However, some sources indicate a later launch, possibly in 2025 or 2026, which would allow Apple to refine the product further and ensure a successful rollout. The device is clearly aimed at: Students seeking an affordable yet capable laptop for schoolwork and academic projects. seeking an affordable yet capable laptop for schoolwork and academic projects. Casual users who need a reliable device for everyday tasks like web browsing, streaming, and document editing. who need a reliable device for everyday tasks like web browsing, streaming, and document editing. First-time Mac buyers looking to enter the Apple ecosystem without a significant financial commitment. It is not intended for professionals requiring high-end performance, making it a niche product within Apple's broader lineup. Nevertheless, its appeal to students and casual users ensures that it will play a crucial role in Apple's strategy to expand its market share. A New Era for Entry-Level Laptops Apple's new budget MacBook represents a significant step forward in the affordable laptop market. By balancing performance, design, and cost, it offers a compelling alternative to Chromebooks while maintaining Apple's reputation for quality and innovation. Although it comes with compromises, these are carefully chosen to ensure that the device remains accessible without sacrificing essential functionality. For students, casual users, and first-time Mac buyers, this MacBook offers an opportunity to experience the benefits of macOS at an unprecedented price point. With its competitive pricing, thoughtful design, and seamless ecosystem integration, Apple is poised to make affordable computing more accessible than ever, setting a new standard for entry-level laptops. Advance your skills in Budget MacBook by reading more of our detailed content. Source & Image Credit: SaranByte Filed Under: Apple Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
The Independent
2 hours ago
- The Independent
Every iPhone 17 rumour to know as Apple plans production move to India
In less than a month, Apple is expected to finally launch the iPhone 17 line-up, introducing a super-thin iPhone 17 Air alongside the Pro and Pro Max for the first time, and leaks are suggesting it could be just 5.5mm thick, boasting silicon-anode battery tech to help compensate for its slimmer design. Likely to be unveiled on 9 September, invitations to the launch event are expected to go out anytime now. But what can we expect? New leaks are still landing daily, and if the rumours are true, we could be about to see one of the biggest shake-ups to the iPhone's design in years, with the Pro range adopting a new horizontal camera bar akin to the Google Pixel. With concerns over tariffs growing, the latest reports suggest Apple will shift iPhone 17 production to India, which could help keep prices down. Now with the launch just around the corner, we don't have long to see the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max and the new iPhone 17 Air in the flesh. Here's everything we know so far, from release date and price to design and specs. Apple iPhone 17 release date: When will the new smartphones launch? It's pretty easy to predict when Apple will launch a new iPhone. The tech giant's big iPhone launch event almost always takes place in September, typically in the second week, usually on a Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday. For context, the iPhone 16 was announced on Monday 9 September 2024, the iPhone 15 on Tuesday 5 September 2023, the iPhone 14 on Wednesday 7 September 2022 and the iPhone 13 on Tuesday 14 September 2021. On 13 July, Bloomberg 's Mark Gurman weighed in, claiming the iPhone 17 keynote would take place during the week starting Monday 8 September, which is the week straight after Labor Day in the US (Apple's traditional launch window). Apple tends to avoid Fridays, and while Monday 8 September is a possibility, Gurman says Tuesday 9 or Wednesday 10 is more likely. That predicted launch date has now been backed up by a leak from German tech site According to the publication, which obtained information from German phone carriers, all four iPhone 17 models, including the iPhone 17 Air, will be unveiled on Tuesday 9 September. The handsets will then reportedly ship the following week on Friday 19 September. Pre-orders will most likely go live on Friday 12 September. While we'd take this rumour with a pinch of salt, it all lines up with our current predictions. Apple iPhone 17 price: How much could the new handsets cost? iPhone pricing rumours are never all that reliable. Every year, leakers and analysts predict a price hike, and every year, Apple tends to hold firm. However, that might finally change in 2025. In a May post on Truth Social, President Trump threatened to impose a 25 per cent tariff on all iPhones manufactured outside the US. Apple had already begun shifting some production to India in 2020, helping it avoid earlier tariffs, but this latest threat could still affect global pricing by the time the iPhone 17 launches. A new Bloomberg report in August claimed that Apple was planning to manufacture all four US-bound iPhone 17 models in India, which is the first time shipments of an entire new lineup will come from India at launch. The move is reportedly designed to reduce Apple's reliance on China and could help soften the impact of potential tariffs, at least in the near term. According to Bloomberg, factories run by Tata Group, an Indian multinational conglomerate, are expected to handle around half of India's iPhone output within two years, alongside Apple's long-time partner Foxconn. In May, The Wall Street Journal claimed that Apple was planning to raise iPhone prices this September. The tech giant reportedly intends to attribute the hike to new features and design changes, rather than tariffs, in a bid to avoid political backlash. On 13 August, reliable Weibo leaker Instant Digital claimed that the iPhone 17 Pro will increase in price by $50 to $1,050 in the US, but the base storage will also be doubled from 128GB to 256GB, and the lower tier dropped entirely. Last week, analyst Jeff Pu claimed that iPhone 17 models will likely be more expensive than the iPhone 16 range due to US tariffs on devices assembled in China and India. Instant Digital isn't the only one touting a $50 increase. In a July research note, Jefferies analyst Edison Lee stated that Apple is expected to hike every iPhone 17 model by $50 as a way to offset China tariffs and the cost of components. The rumoured price hike would apply to the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max. That said, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman reported in March that the iPhone 17 Air, which is expected to replace the Plus model, will cost the same as the iPhone 16 Plus: $899 in the US and £899 in the UK, so we'll just have to wait and see. Apple iPhone 17 camera In an August 2024 report, Jeff Pu claimed in a research note that all four iPhone 17 models will feature a 24MP front-facing camera – a better lens than the 12MP front-facing camera on the iPhone 16. It's a rumour seconded by reliable leaker Ming-Chi Kuo in January 2024. In October 2024, Pu added that the iPhone 17 Pro would feature a 48MP telephoto snapper with 3.5x optical zoom and a redesigned triple camera array that runs horizontally across the rear. According to a YouTube video from FrontPageTech released in April, the Pro models may also gain a new video recording feature allowing users to capture footage from both the front and rear cameras at the same time. It's rumoured that it would let you overlay a selfie shot over outward-facing footage – a useful tool for vloggers or creators. In February 2025, Majin Bu showed more renders of the iPhone 17 lineup, this time of the camera array. In the renders, the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max can be seen with a triple camera system placed horizontally across the top. The base iPhone 17 will stick to its two vertical cameras, and the iPhone 17 Air will feature just one single camera. Mark Gurman claimed in March 2025 that this will be a 48MP camera on the iPhone 17 Air. According to Bloomberg 's Mark Gurman, Apple plans to emphasise improved video recording this year to better appeal to creators and vloggers, something he suggested in a PowerOn newsletter in February. In July 2025, an anonymous tipster told MacRumors that the iPhone 17 Pro would receive an upgraded Telephoto lens with up to 8x optical zoom, a notable jump from the iPhone 16 Pro's 5x. The same source claimed the lens would support continuous optical zoom across focal lengths by physically shifting position. Apple is also reportedly working on a new pro camera app designed to rival third-party tools like Halide and Filmic Pro, though it's unclear if it will be exclusive to the Pro models. The anonymous tipster also claimed that a second dedicated camera control button will be added to the top edge of the iPhone 17, complementing the existing one on the side. Apple iPhone 17 design and display Majin Bu, a leaker with a mixed track record, claimed back in September 2024 that Apple was prototyping an iPhone with the volume and action buttons unified into one single button. It could work similarly to the capacitive camera control button seen on the iPhone 16 Pro. The biggest design overhaul looks set to arrive with the iPhone 17 Air. In March, notorious leaker IceUniverse claimed that the phone could be just 5.5mm thick – thinner than any iPhone Apple has ever released. Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said last year that it will feature just a single 48MP rear camera in a new horizontal pill-shaped camera bar, and unusually, Apple Track claimed in late April 2025 that it will feature a USB-C port that's slightly off-centre to accommodate the slimmer chassis. The device is also rumoured to feature a 6.6in OLED display with ProMotion, Dynamic Island and Face ID. On 28 July, a prototype of the iPhone 17 Pro was spotted in the wild and posted to X. In the pictures, you can see the rumoured iPhone 17 Pro in a bulky case, with a visible horizontal camera bar. Gurman publicly reacted to the images, adding a bit of extra credibility to the leak. As for the rest of the range, a really early rumour from Haitong International Securities analyst Jeff Pu, published in May last year, claimed that the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Air and iPhone 17 Pro will use a complex aluminium design instead of the titanium frame found on the 16 Pro. The 16 and 16 Plus already use aluminium, but the 16 Pro doesn't. Pu did suggest the iPhone 17 Pro Max could maintain the titanium frame, however. It's a downgrade in materials that I'm hoping won't come to fruition, but another report published by The Information in September adds credence to the leak and suggests that all four handsets will have an aluminium frame. The report states that the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max will also boast an aluminium upper back half, while the bottom half will be glass, reportedly because wireless charging doesn't work with a metal rear. In February, Weibo leaker Instant Digital claimed that Apple was testing reverse wireless charging, which would let you charge your AirPods and other accessories wirelessly. Again, it would be a step backwards from the all-glass rear on the iPhone 16 Pro line right now, depending on how it's implemented. There will also be a larger rectangular camera bump, making the 17 Pro look more like a Google Pixel. In December, a semiconductor insider shared a render of what the new frame could look like on X. Jeff Pu claimed in his May 2024 report that, with the exception of the iPhone 17 Air, the iPhone 17 lineup will feature the same display dimensions as the iPhone 16. If true, that means the iPhone 17's display will measure 6.1in, the iPhone 17 Pro will feature the same 6.3in display, and the iPhone 17 Pro Max will still measure 6.9in. Pu claims that the iPhone 17 displays will be more scratch-resistant and boast a more anti-reflective coating, but that rumour has since been walked back due to reported production issues. One early 2024 rumour from The Elec, a media outlet specialising in Korean electronics, claims that the non-Pro models will receive the Pro's always-on display for the first time and that they'll also get ProMotion LPTO technology, giving it a dynamic refresh rate. Apple is also reportedly shifting the positioning of the Apple logo to sit lower on the back of the iPhone 17 Pro to accommodate a new full-width camera bar. This would be the first major repositioning since the iPhone 11. Leaked renders, shared by Bu in late June, suggest the redesign may centre the logo within a glass cutout below the aluminium camera bump, preserving wireless charging while changing how MagSafe accessories align. Accessory makers are reportedly already adapting their gear for this redesign, though it's unclear if the internal magnet placement will also change. Apple iPhone 17 colours In April 2025, Majin Bu reported that Apple was testing a new sky blue colourway for the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max. However, that finish now appears to have been reassigned. According to a July report from Macworld, the same sky blue is instead expected to feature on the iPhone 17 Air, reflecting a more muted palette. Majin Bu also stated on 17 July that the earlier sky blue colourway has now been dropped and will be used on the iPhone 17 Air instead. On 20 June, Bu shared another leak suggesting that Apple was also testing two pastel purple and green colours for the base iPhone 17 models. Both were reportedly still in contention at the time, but only one might make the final cut. These could replace some of the iPhone 16's brighter colourways, like pink or ultramarine. More rumours about colours have continued to drop. In a July report, Macworld claims the base iPhone 17 will launch in black and white, carried over from the iPhone 16, as well as steel grey, light blue, green and purple, echoing Bu's report. The publication also states that the iPhone 17 Air will also come in black and white, alongside a much paler sky blue and a soft gold finish. The blue is reportedly even lighter than the standard model's, while the gold is described as a creamier take on last year's desert titanium. The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max are rumoured to come in black, white, grey (similar to natural titanium), a dark navy blue and a vibrant orange, inspired by the Apple Watch Ultra's action button. Macworld backed up these colours in its report on 16 July, adding that Apple is expected to switch from titanium to aluminium frames for the new Pro models, a change that may subtly affect how certain colours look in person. Apple iPhone 17 specs Leaks about the iPhone 17's performance are beginning to trickle out. According to Gurman, all models (including the iPhone 17 Air) will feature an A19 chip, while the Pro and Pro Max will get an upgraded A19 Pro chipset. All four phones are also rumoured to ship with 12GB of RAM – a step up from the 8GB found in the iPhone 16 Pro to support future Apple Intelligence features. The iPhone 17 Air will also reportedly include Apple's own C1 modem (also found in the iPhone 16e) and won't have a SIM tray – even outside the US. Wi-Fi 7 support is expected across the entire range. The Pro models could also feature a new vapour chamber cooling system to help with heat dissipation. On 11 August, Majin Bu claimed the iPhone 17 Pro range will gain an Apple Watch Ultra-style antenna that will wrap around the rear camera bump, something that will improve 5G signal strength and mmWave stability. Apple iPhone 17 battery life While you might think that a thinner iPhone 17 Air would mean a worse battery life, Mark Gurman claims that the battery life in the iPhone 17 Air will be "on par with current iPhones', presumably the entry-level iPhone 16. This will be achieved, he says, thanks to some hardware and software optimisations, including the use of Apple's C1 modem – found in the iPhone 16e – a higher-density battery and the removal of an ultrawide camera, providing more room inside the phone for something bigger. According to a report in The Information, the iPhone 17 Air's ultra-thin design will come at a cost to battery life, with only 60 to 70 per cent of users expected to make it through a full day without recharging. That's a sharp drop compared to the 80 to 90 per cent average seen on other models. With a smaller battery packed into its slim chassis, Apple is reportedly preparing to offer a dedicated battery case, potentially an extra (and unwelcome) purchase. But in May, Bloomberg reported that the iPhone 17 Air could adopt a new silicon-anode battery developed by Apple supplier TDK. The company is expected to begin shipping the upgraded cells by the end of June, ahead of schedule, potentially giving Apple enough time to include them in the slimmer handset. The new tech could help extend battery life despite the smaller physical footprint. In early February, reliable Weibo leaker Instant Digital claimed that Apple was testing reverse wireless charging for the iPhone 17 line-up. If true, you'd be able to charge your AirPods and other accessories by placing them on the back of the phone – a great feature, albeit one that Android phones have had for years. The verdict: Apple iPhone 17 rumours With rumours pointing to a slimmer iPhone 17 Air, design tweaks across the line-up and potential upgrades like a 48MP front camera and ProMotion trickling down to non-Pro models, the iPhone 17 could mark one of the more exciting updates in years – if the leaks are true. Pricing might not stay flat this year, with reports suggesting increases tied to new design costs and possible US tariffs. The move back to aluminium on the Pro models might feel like a step down, and while a new sky blue colour option could freshen things up, the iPhone 17 Air's single camera and speaker might split opinion. A new silicon-anode battery could help balance out its slimmer build, but the biggest unknown remains Apple Intelligence, with many features still delayed until 2026.
