Apple’s next flagship iPhones might be getting a serious camera boost. According to new leaks, the upcoming iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max could feature a redesigned rear camera module that stretches horizontally across the back of the device. While many initially thought this was simply an aesthetic refresh, reports now suggest it could have a much bigger purpose making room for a larger telephoto camera sensor with significantly improved zoom capabilities.
Well-known leaker Jon Prosser speculates that the space between the main triangular camera cluster on the left and the flash and LiDAR sensor on the right could be designed to house this new telephoto system. If true, this change could allow Apple to push the optical zoom range from the current 5x to an impressive 8x. The new lens is also rumoured to be a 48-megapixel sensor with a movable design, enabling continuous optical zoom across different focal lengths.
MacRumors had previously reported similar information, citing an anonymous tipster who suggested that this upgraded telephoto lens will debut exclusively on the Pro models. There is also talk of a brand-new Pro Camera app arriving alongside the iPhone 17 Pro series, giving users more advanced control over photography and videography. It is unclear if this app will be entirely new or an enhanced version of Apple’s Final Cut Camera app.
Beyond the camera, the iPhone 17 Pro Max could see additional premium upgrades, including an anti-reflective display similar to the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, a larger battery, and a 24-megapixel TrueDepth front-facing camera. As always, none of these details have been officially confirmed, but Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 17 lineup on September 9.
If these rumours are accurate, the iPhone 17 Pro could be a major leap forward for mobile photography, giving users DSLR-like zoom capabilities in a device that still fits in their pocket.
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