Cairo: Hani Kamal El-Din
In a move that could signal a major design shift, Apple is reportedly preparing a radically redesigned iPhone 17 series. According to newly surfaced leaks, the lineup will feature a horizontal camera layout reminiscent of Google Pixel devices. Moreover, Apple plans to introduce a new “iPhone 17 Air” model, which will be the thinnest iPhone ever made.
These changes suggest Apple is ready to rethink its visual identity for the iPhone, setting the stage for a bold new generation of devices.
iPhone 17’s Horizontal Camera Design: Inspired by Pixel
Leaked images show that Apple is planning to move away from the square-shaped rear camera island it has used for several years. Instead, the iPhone 17 lineup may adopt a sleek horizontal camera bar stretching across the upper back of the phone — a design similar to Google’s Pixel smartphones.
This horizontal arrangement not only refreshes the iPhone’s visual aesthetic but could also bring improved camera balance and lens placement. The design appears in multiple leaked dummy units and case prototypes, indicating a high level of credibility.
Introducing iPhone 17 Air: Thinner Than Ever
Perhaps the most intriguing leak is about the iPhone 17 Air, a new variant that Apple reportedly plans to debut alongside the standard and Pro models.
Sources suggest this model will be only 5.4 mm thick, making it the thinnest iPhone Apple has ever produced — and possibly one of the thinnest smartphones on the market. Despite its ultra-thin profile, the iPhone 17 Air is expected to maintain high-end performance, likely powered by a next-gen chip and optimized battery efficiency.
The Air branding mirrors Apple’s strategy with other products like the MacBook Air and iPad Air — slim, stylish, and performance-focused.
Flash and Microphone Placement Confirmed
Other changes revealed in the leaks include the placement of the flash and rear microphone. Both elements remain in the top-right corner on the phone’s back — a configuration that aligns well with the new horizontal camera bar and contributes to a cleaner, more symmetrical rear design.
Expected Release Date
Apple is expected to officially unveil the iPhone 17 lineup in September 2025, continuing its traditional fall launch schedule. The announcement is likely to occur at Apple’s annual September event, alongside new versions of Apple Watch and possibly other hardware.
Pre-orders and market availability would likely follow shortly after, as is customary with major iPhone launches.
Conclusion: A New Chapter for iPhone Design
If the leaks prove accurate, Apple is preparing to make a bold move with the iPhone 17 series. From horizontal cameras to the introduction of the iPhone 17 Air, the changes indicate a desire to break from recent design stagnation and bring something fresh to the market.
As always, these leaks are subject to change — but they offer an exciting preview of Apple’s next big step. Fans and industry experts alike will be watching closely as the launch date approaches, eager to see which innovations make it into the final product.
