Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max: Major Design Shift With Rectangular Camera Bump, Bigger Battery, A19 Pro Chip

The apple iPhone 17 Pro Max is gearing up to become Apple’s most substantial Pro Max refresh in years. Tipped to arrive with a redesigned rectangular camera bump, a much larger 5,000mAh battery, and the all-new A19 Pro chipset, this model could mark a pivotal moment in the evolution of the iPhone Pro series. As the expected launch window in September 2025 draws closer, the buzz around the Pro Max and its companion devices is intensifying. Let’s explore all the major leaks and expectations — from prices in India to design changes, camera specs, and possible surprises.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max: Price, Specs & Features at a Glance

The upcoming apple iPhone 17 Pro Max is expected to feature a 6.9-inch ProMotion OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and slimmer bezels for a more immersive viewing experience. The most eye-catching update is the rectangular-shaped rear camera bump, which reportedly aligns with the design language of the Google Pixel 9 series — potentially enhancing lens placement and thermal management.

Under the hood, it’s powered by Apple’s A19 Pro chipset, likely bringing efficiency and AI improvements over the A18. On the battery front, a huge 5,000mAh cell is expected — making it the largest battery ever fitted in an iPhone. Combined with optimized software and better thermal regulation, this could translate into all-day heavy use.

Expected key specs:

• Display: 6.9” ProMotion, 120Hz OLED

• Chipset: A19 Pro

• Battery: 5,000mAh

• Rear Cameras: Triple 48MP (Wide, Ultra-Wide, Telephoto)

• Front Camera: 24MP

• Expected India Price: ₹1,64,990

Design Overhaul: Rectangular Camera Bump, Thinner Bezels, Subtler Curves

Apple appears to be making a bold shift with the iPhone 17 Pro Max by adopting a rectangular camera layout, a departure from the traditional diagonal or square configuration. This layout is not only for aesthetics — it could allow better spacing for sensors, reduce overheating, and support new AI-driven computational photography tools.

Additionally, rumours suggest the chassis will be refined with subtler curves, thinner bezels, and possibly titanium side rails. Color options may include a new matte black and a titanium blue variant.

Performance & Battery: A19 Pro, 5,000mAh Cell (Rumoured), ProMotion 120Hz

Apple’s A19 Pro chip is likely to be a major leap in processing and AI capabilities, with better on-device machine learning, enhanced GPU for ray tracing, and improved efficiency under thermal stress.

With a massive 5,000mAh battery and efficient chip, the iPhone 17 Pro Max could offer:

• Up to 30% longer screen-on time than the 16 Pro Max

• Faster charge cycles with optimized heat distribution

• A better balance between high performance and battery endurance

Cameras: Triple 48MP on Pro Max, Mixed 48MP/12MP on Pro — What to Expect

Photography remains a top priority, and Apple may go all-in with a Triple 48MP setup on the Pro Max. The sensors will likely include:

• 48MP main wide-angle

• 48MP ultra-wide

• 48MP telephoto

The front camera might also see an upgrade to 24MP, ideal for sharper FaceTime calls and selfies. Night Mode, Smart HDR, and Deep Fusion are expected to see AI-powered refinements.

iPhone 17 Air Could Replace iPhone 17 Plus: Ultra-Slim, 5.5–6.25mm Body

Apple may drop the “Plus” naming in favor of a sleeker model: the iPhone 17 Air. Tipped to be the thinnest iPhone ever at just 5.5 to 6.25mm, it’s expected to feature:

• A 6.7-inch ProMotion 120Hz display

• A19 chipset (standard version)

• Single 48MP rear camera

• 24MP front camera

• A compact 2,800mAh equivalent battery

Its expected starting price in India is ₹99,990.

Standard iPhone 17: Minor Cosmetic Tweaks, Possible A18 or A19 Upgrade

While the Pro Max and Air models take center stage, the standard iPhone 17 is rumoured to retain the iPhone 16’s design. However, some updates may include:

• A18 or possibly A19 chip

• 3,600mAh battery

• Dual rear camera: 48MP + 12MP

• 12MP front camera

• ₹89,990 expected price

This model could cater to those looking for a performance bump without the Pro price tag.

India Pricing Breakdown & The Tariff Wildcard

Expected India pricing (pre-tariff):

• iPhone 17 Pro: ₹1,34,990

• iPhone 17 Pro Max: ₹1,64,990

However, a proposed 25% tariff on iPhones made outside the USA, as hinted by political developments, could significantly raise costs — especially if the iPhone 17 series is not produced at scale in India. Keep an eye on Apple’s manufacturing partnerships with Foxconn and Pegatron in Tamil Nadu.

Launch Timeline: Second Week of September 2025 — What to Watch

Apple traditionally hosts its fall event in early to mid-September. Leaks point to a second-week launch window, likely followed by:

• Pre-orders within 3–4 days

• Shipping to India by end of September

Stay alert for Apple’s official invite — expected in late August 2025.

Should You Wait for the iPhone 17 Pro Max or Buy the iPhone 16 Pro Max Now?

If you’re excited about design innovations, camera upgrades, and longer battery life, waiting makes sense. However, if current deals on the iPhone 16 Pro Max offer significant savings and your needs are met, it’s still a strong buy.

Trade-in value for iPhone 14 Pro Max and earlier models could peak just before the iPhone 17 launch, making it a smart time to consider your upgrade path.

Key Takeaways (Skimmable)

• 📸 Rectangular camera bump on iPhone 17 Pro Max, resembling Google Pixel 9

• 🔋 5,000mAh battery, the largest in an iPhone to date

• 🚀 Powered by the A19 Pro chip with AI and efficiency boosts

• 📷 Triple 48MP cameras + 24MP selfie shooter on Pro Max

• 📱 iPhone 17 Air may replace the Plus, with a slim body (5.5mm) and 6.7” display

• 💸 India pricing starts at ₹1,64,990 for Pro Max, subject to tariff risks

• 📅 Likely launch: September 2025, second week

If you’re considering upgrading, the apple iPhone 17 Pro Max stands out as the most forward-looking iPhone yet — but it comes with a hefty price tag and a wait. Evaluate based on your needs and budget, but keep your eyes peeled for Apple’s official September announcement.

You Must Know

What are the biggest design changes on the apple iPhone 17 Pro Max?
The most notable is the rectangular camera bump, likely enhancing thermal and optical performance. Also expected: thinner bezels, new materials, and sleek color options.

How much will the iPhone 17 Pro Max cost in India?
Leaked estimates suggest ₹1,64,990, but tariffs or changes in manufacturing could shift pricing higher.

Is Apple replacing the Plus model with an “Air”?
Yes, leaks point to an iPhone 17 Air, slimmer and lighter, priced around ₹99,990.

What cameras are expected on the iPhone 17 Pro Max?
Triple 48MP sensors on the rear and a 24MP selfie camera, with major improvements to computational photography.

When will the iPhone 17 Pro Max be launched?
Expected launch window is the second week of September 2025, consistent with Apple’s past patterns.

Should I wait or buy the iPhone 16 Pro Max now?
Wait if you want the latest design and battery. Buy now if you find strong trade-in or discount offers.