Apple traditionally unveils new hardware in the fall, and this year appears to be no exception. The event is reportedly set for September 9, with the iPhone 17 lineup expected alongside updates for the Apple Watch and AirPods.
Rumors suggest bigger screens, improved cameras, and the debut of an ultra-thin “iPhone Air” that might replace the Plus model.
iPhone 17, 17 Pro, and 17 Pro Max
The iPhone 17 is anticipated to get a major redesign to better match the Pro models. It may feature a slightly larger 6.3-inch display—up 0.2 inches from the iPhone 16—along with a 120Hz refresh rate, a big leap from the current 60Hz. A 24-megapixel front camera is also rumored, along with new color options like purple and green.
Rumors indicate that the most noticeable upgrades for the iPhone 17 Pro will be on its back. Concept renderings suggest the three rear cameras could be arranged in a rectangular bar stretching from one edge of the phone to the other, with the flash, light sensor, and microphone positioned toward the far right. The Apple logo, aligned with the MagSafe charger, is reportedly centered for a cleaner look.
The Pro may also swap its titanium frame for aluminum, potentially lowering costs while making the device lighter.
The iPhone 17 Pro Max is expected to see fewer changes, with the main update being a slightly thicker body—likely to fit a larger battery, which would be a welcome improvement.
Leaker Instant Digital predicts pricing at about $800 for the iPhone 17, $1,050 for the Pro, and $1,250 for the Pro Max.
One of the most talked-about rumors is Apple’s possible debut of its thinnest phone yet—the iPhone Air—which could replace the iPhone Plus.
Ultra-Thin iPhone Air Could Outshine Rival Flagships and Hint at Foldable Future
The iPhone Air is rumored to measure just 5.5 mm thick, making it about 0.08 inches slimmer than current iPhones, and feature a 6.6-inch display. This move seems to align with the industry’s push toward ultra-slim smartphones, following brands like Samsung and Huawei. It could even undercut the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge’s 5.8 mm thickness and may set the stage for Apple’s long-rumored foldable phone, expected in September 2026.
However, the ultra-thin design might bring trade-offs. Renders suggest the Air will have only a single rear camera—unlike the Plus, which has two—and may lack space for a bottom speaker, leaving the front earpiece as the sole audio source.
Reports indicate the iPhone Air could cost around $950 and come in black, silver, and light gold.
Apple Watch Series 11, Ultra 3, and SE (3rd Generation)
After two years, rumors suggest the Apple Watch Ultra 3 could see major upgrades, including faster charging, 5G connectivity, satellite support, and a larger display.
Apple Watch May Gain Blood Pressure Alerts and Sleep Apnea Detection, Though Features Could Be Delayed
One of the most anticipated additions for both the Ultra 3 and Series 11 is blood pressure monitoring, which would alert users if their levels are too high or too low. Apple is also exploring a sleep apnea detection feature, though Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reports these health tools might be delayed for further refinement.
The Apple Watch SE 3 is expected to remain largely unchanged, aside from a possible larger screen. Gurman also notes ongoing speculation about a new plastic version.
Projected prices are around $250 for the SE 3, $400 for the Series 11, and $800 for the Ultra 3.
AirPods Pro 3
Following the 2022 debut of the AirPods Pro 2, it looks like an upgrade may be on the horizon. Rumors point to the AirPods Pro 3 featuring a sleeker design, touch-sensitive controls, smaller earbuds, and a slimmer charging case. They’re also expected to house the new H3 chip, which could deliver improved active noise cancellation and adaptive audio.
Read the original article on: TechCrunch
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