Apple is reportedly gearing up to unveil the iPhone 17 series on September 9, and as the launch date approaches, fresh leaks are shedding light on key design changes.
The latest rumor focuses on a significant hardware tweak for the iPhone 17 Pro and possibly the iPhone 17 Pro Max—a complete repositioning of its antennas.
According to industry sources, the antennas in the iPhone 17 Pro will be moved around the rear camera module, which is expected to stretch across the entire width of the device. This camera island design has been widely rumored as one of the most notable visual updates in this year’s lineup.
The move may have been inspired by the Apple Watch Ultra and Apple Watch Ultra 2, both of which feature antennas integrated in a way that optimizes signal strength and stability. Traditionally, iPhones have housed their antennas along the chassis edges, with visible breaks in the frame allowing signals to pass through.
However, for the iPhone 17 Pro, Apple reportedly aims to minimize interference caused by the chassis materials while enhancing both 5G and the upcoming Wi-Fi 7 performance. By placing antennas near the camera module—an area less prone to signal shielding—Apple could significantly improve reception in crowded network environments and ensure more reliable connections for calls, streaming, and gaming.
If accurate, this design shift would represent one of the most practical upgrades in the iPhone’s connectivity capabilities in recent years. Combined with the rumored wider camera module, the change could also give the iPhone 17 Pro a refreshed look without straying too far from Apple’s signature design language.
More details about the iPhone 17 family, including specifications, camera upgrades, and pricing, are expected to surface in the coming weeks. With its anticipated September 9 debut, Apple’s next flagship lineup is shaping up to offer not just visual refinements but also meaningful performance improvements for everyday users.