iPhone 17 Launch Tipped for September 2025: Slimmer Design, 120Hz Display, and Game-Changing Upgrades
As summer winds down, Apple is gearing up for its most anticipated event of the year. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 17 lineup during the second week of September—likely on the 9th or 10th. While Apple hasn’t officially confirmed the date, this timing aligns with its traditional launch playbook.But it’s not just the iPhones taking center stage. Here’s a closer look at what to expect from Apple’s fall hardware event—including new iPhones, Apple Watches, and more.
A Familiar Launch Timeline
Apple typically hosts its iPhone launches right after Labor Day in the U.S., usually on a Tuesday or Wednesday. This year appears to be no exception. All signs point to September 9 or 10 as the event date, with pre-orders likely beginning that same week.
In addition to the new iPhones, Apple is rumored to announce the Apple Watch Series 11, Watch SE 3, and Watch Ultra 3.
iPhone 17 Lineup: What’s New?
The iPhone 17 family is expected to include four models:
iPhone 17
iPhone 17 Air
iPhone 17 Pro
iPhone 17 Pro Max
The most intriguing addition? The iPhone 17 Air, which is rumored to be thinner than the current Pro model by about 2mm and made from premium titanium.
Design and Display Upgrades
Apple may shift the rear camera layout from vertical to horizontal across the entire lineup. Additionally, the base iPhone 17 may grow slightly in size—from 6.1 inches to 6.3 inches.
One of the most exciting changes is the possibility of a 120Hz refresh rate finally coming to the base iPhone model—something previously reserved for Pro versions. However, ProMotion (dynamic refresh adjustment) may still remain exclusive to higher-end models.
The Pro versions could also get a new display layer for improved durability and reduced glare—aimed at catching up to Samsung’s Gorilla Glass Armor.
Performance: A19 Chip and Vapor Cooling
All iPhone 17 models are expected to ship with the Apple A19 chip, bringing better performance and energy efficiency. For the first time, Apple may add a vapor chamber cooling system to support gaming and multitasking.
Here’s a quick breakdown of expected memory:
iPhone 17, base model: 8GB RAM
iPhone 17 Pro & Air: 12GB RAM
Camera Improvements Across the Board
Front-facing cameras may jump to 24MP, while the rear could introduce a mechanical aperture system on Pro Max for better low-light photos and depth control.
Even base models are expected to receive a 48MP main sensor, although features like periscope zoom may remain Pro-only.
Connectivity and Charging
All models are expected to support Wi-Fi 7—offering faster and more reliable wireless performance.
Charging speed may rise to 35W, an upgrade for Apple, but still behind the 100W+ fast charging seen on Android rivals like Xiaomi and OnePlus.
What’s Next?
If Apple sticks to its usual script, event invites will be sent out in early September. Until then, expect the rumor mill to keep turning—with more leaks, spec reveals, and comparison tests.
