Apple is preparing its most radical iPhone redesign since the iPhone X, with supply chain sources confirming that the iPhone 17 lineup — set for unveiling in September 2026 — will finally eliminate the Dynamic Island in favor of a true full-screen experience. The change comes after years of engineering work to embed Face ID infrared sensors beneath OLED displays.
Under-Display Face ID Finally Arrives
According to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo and display expert Ross Young, the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max will use micro-lens array technology to bend infrared light around active display pixels, allowing the dot projector and flood illuminator to function through the screen. Users will see nothing but uninterrupted display where the Dynamic Island currently sits. The front camera will remain as a tiny punch-hole on the standard iPhone 17 and new iPhone 17 Air, with full under-display integration expected for the iPhone 18 series in 2027.
Periscope Zoom for Every Model
Currently, 5x tetraprism zoom is exclusive to the iPhone 16 Pro Max. The iPhone 17 series reportedly brings this feature to all four models, including the base iPhone 17 and the ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air. This means even buyers of the $799 entry model will get optical zoom capabilities previously reserved for $1,200 flagships. Additionally, Apple is testing a variable aperture main camera — adjustable from f/1.4 to f/4.0 — giving photographers real depth-of-field control without relying on computational portrait modes.
iPhone 17 Air: Thinnest iPhone Ever
Replacing the Plus model in Apple’s four-device strategy, the iPhone 17 Air is rumored to measure just 5.5mm thick — thinner than the 6.9mm iPhone 6 and approaching the 5.1mm iPad Pro M4. To achieve this, Apple is reportedly using a titanium-aluminum alloy frame, a single rear camera, and silicon-carbon battery technology. The device targets fashion-conscious buyers who prioritize pocketability over maximum camera specs.
A19 Pro Chip and Apple Intelligence 2.0
All iPhone 17 models will ship with the A19 series chips built on TSMC’s third-generation 3nm process. The Neural Engine is getting a major expansion to support on-device generative AI features that currently require cloud processing. Leaked iOS 20 beta code suggests real-time video translation during FaceTime calls, AI-generated video summaries, and a context-aware Siri that remembers what you asked three questions ago.
Pricing and Release
Apple typically announces new iPhones on the first or second Tuesday of September. For 2026, that points to September 8 or September 15. Pricing is expected to remain stable: iPhone 17 at $799, iPhone 17 Air at $899, iPhone 17 Pro at $1,099, and iPhone 17 Pro Max at $1,199.
Should You Upgrade?
If you own an iPhone 14 or older, the iPhone 17 represents a compelling leap. iPhone 15 and 16 owners may want to wait for 2027 unless the Air model’s ultra-thin design specifically appeals to them.
