Apple is gearing up to launch its iPhone 17 series later this year, and significant modifications to the rear camera module are on the horizon for the new devices. These anticipated design changes have been observed in recent dummy models circulating online. In addition, a reliable tipster has revealed that the subsequent iteration of the iPhone 17 lineup will also feature several design alterations. Earlier reports have indicated that Apple is developing a completely screen-centric iPhone with an under-display camera, alongside a leaked timeline for the deployment of this innovative device.
Anticipated Design Changes for Future iPhone Models
The new iPhone 17 models are projected to showcase a redesigned rear camera module, as reported by Digital Chat Station, a source connected to Apple’s supply chain, in a Weibo post (translated from Chinese). This latest design is said to feature a triple rear camera module set within a wide horizontal section. Previous findings have similarly suggested that the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max variants will sport a revamped rear panel.
While the iPhone 17 Pro models are anticipated to debut in the latter half of 2025, Apple appears to be laying the groundwork for significant front-facing changes in its future smartphones. According to the tipster, the most notable updates will likely debut with the iPhone 18 models in 2026. These upcoming devices are expected to introduce a hole punch display cutout for the selfie camera, while other necessary Face ID sensors are slated to be embedded beneath the display.
The initiative to relocate Face ID sensors under the display aligns with Apple’s ambitions to create an all-screen iPhone, as stated by Digital Chat Station. The company aims to eliminate the display notch entirely by 2027, implementing both an under-display selfie camera and Face ID sensors within the handset.
If these predictions hold true, the iPhone 19 models might be the first all-screen smartphones released by Apple. It’s noteworthy that manufacturers like Nubia have already debuted smartphones featuring under-display selfie cameras. However, there remains a significant difference in performance between conventional selfie cameras and these new under-display variants.
It is important to approach these claims of extensive design modifications for future iPhone models with caution. History has shown that Apple often opts for incremental design updates, and the effectiveness of under-display camera technology in replacing traditional selfie cameras remains uncertain for the next few years.
