Apple is reportedly nearing the grand reveal of its next major iPhone iteration, the iPhone 17, with tech analysts and enthusiasts keenly predicting the official launch date. A prominent tech editor, with a proven track record of accurate predictions for previous iPhone releases, has once again put forth a detailed timeline for this year's highly anticipated event.

Suspected Dates

The tech giant, known for its consistent scheduling, is expected to hold its annual September iPhone event where multiple new iPhones, potentially up to four, will be announced. While Apple has yet to confirm any dates, the pattern of previous years allows for a strong forecast. The iPhone 17 launch event is predicted to take place on Tuesday, September 9, 2025. This keynote would likely be preceded by event invitations sent out on Tuesday, August 26, 2025.

Following the event, pre-orders for the new devices are anticipated to begin on Friday, September 12, 2025, with the official release date slated for Friday, September 19, 2025. Additionally, the new iOS 26 software, which all iPhone 17 models will run on, is expected to drop on Monday, September 15, 2025.

Rumored High Tech Features

Adding to the excitement, Apple has dubbed its upcoming event "Awe Dropping" and has featured a special interactive version of its iconic logo on its website. This unique logo responds to mouse or finger movements, changing colors as if viewed through a thermal imaging camera, and glowing with an orangey-red heat spot. This mysterious design has sparked widespread speculation among Apple fans regarding its potential meaning.

The interactive logo has led to several theories circulating on online forums like Reddit. One popular theory suggests it hints at new color options for the iPhone 17, specifically new blue and orange variants. Another significant theory posits that the thermal imaging effect points to advancements in the devices' cooling capabilities and thermal efficiency.

With discussions around a potential shift from titanium to aluminum casing for the Pro models, enhanced cooling, possibly through vapor chamber technology, could be crucial for maintaining boosted performance from Apple's chips. Less likely, but still debated, are possibilities of new infrared-based health features or even the highly improbable inclusion of a thermal imaging camera in the iPhone itself.

Phone Size and Weight

Regarding the iPhone 17 lineup itself, significant changes are rumored. Apple is reportedly considering abandoning the 'Plus' model in favor of an ultra-slim device, potentially named the "iPhone 17 Air." This new model is rumored to be as thin as 6mm, a notable reduction from the iPhone 16's 7.8mm, and is expected to be priced between the standard iPhone 17 and the iPhone 17 Pro. Screen sizes across the range might see a slight increase of 0.1-0.2 inches.

A major upgrade anticipated for all four devices is the inclusion of 120Hz ProMotion screens, a feature previously exclusive to Pro models, promising smoother scrolling and video playback.

Further hardware changes include expectations of a large camera bump spanning horizontally across the back of at least some new iPhones, moving away from the corner placement. General improvements to camera quality are also anticipated.

While the Pro models might transition to aluminum casing, these are the primary rumored major changes for the iPhone 17 series. Beyond the new phones, the "Awe Dropping" event might also feature other Apple product announcements, such as new AirPods, an upgraded Apple Watch, and possibly a revamped Apple Vision Pro headset.

Disclaimer

It is important to remember that all these details, from the release dates to the device specifications and the meaning behind the interactive logo, remain predictions and rumors until officially confirmed by Apple.

Cover Image Credit: WIRED