Apple Gears Up for iPhone 17 Series Launch with New 'Air' Model, Camera Upgrades and Premium Pricing

Apple is preparing to roll out its much-anticipated iPhone 17 series this September, bringing with it not just the familiar Pro and Pro Max variants but also an all-new addition, the iPhone 17 Air. As the company reorganizes its lineup, reports suggest that the Plus model will be phased out this year. While numerous leaks have hinted at sweeping changes, Apple’s official unveiling of its next-generation operating systems has now confirmed several of the standout features expected in the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max.

One of the biggest talking points centers around the iPhone 17 Pro Max’s camera system, which is rumored to receive major upgrades. With Apple’s legacy of delivering some of the best smartphone cameras in the market, this focus on improved photography makes sense and has stirred excitement among fans.

The iPhone 17 lineup is set to maintain Apple’s traditional early September announcement window, although the iPhone 17E might deviate from this timeline, with industry insiders predicting a delayed launch sometime in early 2026.

When it comes to displays, the Pro models are expected to retain their superior technology, featuring LTPO panels capable of dynamic refresh rates between 120Hz and 1Hz with ProMotion support. In contrast, the iPhone 17 and the new iPhone 17 Air may be limited to a 90Hz refresh rate, offering a more modest visual experience.

On the performance front, speculation suggests that the iPhone 17 could either carry forward the A18 Bionic chip or debut the upcoming A19 processor, both produced on TSMC’s cutting-edge 3nm process. RAM options will likely stay at 8GB for the regular versions, while the Pro models could receive a boost to 12GB. All devices in the lineup will debut with iOS 26, recently introduced at WWDC 2025.

The Pro variants are also expected to feature a premium build combining glass and aluminum, improving both looks and durability. Notably, Apple is rumored to introduce a new 24MP front camera with a six-element lens for sharper selfies and better video quality. The iPhone 17 Pro Max could also get a major telephoto sensor update, with a 48MP sensor replacing the 12MP one that’s now there.

Pricing leaks hint that the iPhone 17 Pro Max could arrive with a heftier price tag, potentially around ₹1,64,900 in India, $2,300 in the US, and AED 5,399 in the UAE, driven by rising production costs and trade policy concerns.