Apple iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Air Launch: What To Expect — Price, Major Upgrades, Timeline

Apple is expected to launch its iPhone 17 series this September, with reports suggesting the introduction of a new ultra-slim model, the iPhone 17 Air. While the spotlight remains on the flagship iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max, the anticipated launch of the lightweight Air variant is drawing significant attention ahead of the official announcement.

Reports suggest that Apple will launch four models — the standard iPhone 17, advanced iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max and the entirely new iPhone 17 Air. Each is expected to bring distinct upgrades, including improvements in performance and display.

Photography enthusiasts may have a lot to look forward to, particularly with the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max. Apple is reportedly equipping these devices with a trio of 48MP sensors — a primary lens, a redesigned ultra-wide camera and a telephoto unit. A Tetraprism Telephoto lens could also make its debut, offering higher zoom levels and better image sharpness.

Apple is also likely to add a mechanical aperture. If true, this would enable manual control over how much light enters the lens, allowing for better depth-of-field adjustments. This feature is generally associated with professional cameras.

In contrast, the iPhone 17 Air is expected to keep things minimal. With a design reportedly as thin as 5.5mm, it will likely house a single 48MP rear camera, optimised for casual photography instead of advanced zoom or portrait work. The slim profile, while aesthetically impressive, leaves little space for more elaborate camera hardware.

One of the biggest expected changes across the range — particularly for the standard iPhone 17 — is the inclusion of a 120Hz display. This marks a major jump from the 60Hz screen of the previous generation.

Internally, all four models are likely to be powered by a next-generation chipset, improving speed, energy efficiency and overall performance. Improvements in front camera resolution are also on the cards, with the base model likely to get a 24MP sensor.

Pricing will, as usual, vary by region. In India, the iPhone 17 is expected to start around Rs 89,900, while the high-end iPhone 17 Pro Max could be priced upwards of Rs 1,64,900. These figures remain speculative until Apple officially announces the lineup.

Apple has maintained a consistent launch cycle over the years. The iPhone 17 series is also expected to follow suit with a September launch.