iPhone 17 Series Rumors: Prices, Features, Colors & Release Date

1. iPhone 17 Pro Max with 256 GB Base Storage & Just $50 Price Bump?

Recent leaks strongly indicate that the upcoming iPhone 17 Pro (base model) will start with 256 GB of internal storage—a significant upgrade from the previous 128 GB offering. This enhanced base variant is expected to be priced at $1,049, just $50 more than last year’s iPhone 16 Pro ($999), yet offering twice the storage capacity. This move positions Apple to manage cost hikes due to tariffs while providing perceived value to users.

For comparison:

• iPhone 17: Expected base price around $799–$849 1
• iPhone 17 Pro: Estimated at $1,049 with 256 GB 2
• iPhone 17 Pro Max: Likely around $1,249 3
• A new slim variant iPhone 17 Air is rumored, estimated at about $949

2. What’s the Price of iPhone 17?

Based on consistent leaks across multiple reputable sources, here’s the projected pricing structure for the iPhone 17 lineup:

• Standard iPhone 17: $799–$849 5
• iPhone 17 Pro (256 GB): $1,049 6
• iPhone 17 Pro Max: $1,249 7
• iPhone 17 Air: ~$949 8

These slight price increases—from $50 to possibly $100—are being attributed partly to U.S. tariffs and rising production costs. However, Apple may mitigate backlash by upgrading storage and features across the lineup. 9

3. iPhone 17 Features

The iPhone 17 series is shaping up to be a notable but evolutionary update, featuring:

• A19 chip for iPhone 17, and A19 Pro for Pro models 10
• 120Hz LTPO displays with always-on capability across all models 11
• Upgraded 24MP TrueDepth front camera 12
• All-new 48MP telephoto lens in Pro models, possibly with higher optical zoom 13
• Improved core specs: 12GB RAM in Pro models 14
• Enhanced charging: 50W MagSafe 15
• Updated internal design: metal-covered battery for better heat dissipation 16
• Possible new cooling tech, improved Dynamic Island, and

4. iPhone 17 Colors

Extensive leaks suggest a newly expanded color palette for the iPhone 17 family:

• Standard iPhone 17: Black, White, Steel Gray, Green, Purple, Light Blue 18
• iPhone 17 Air: Black, White, Light Blue, Light Gold 19
• iPhone 17 Pro & Pro Max: Black, White, Gray, Dark Blue, Orange 20
• Additional rumored shades: Lavender/Lilac, Silver, Teal, Ultramarine – depending on region.

5. iPhone 17 Pro Release Date

Apple’s launch pattern remains consistent: several sources predict the iPhone 17 series will be announced the week of September 8, and specifically on Tuesday, September 9, 2025. Preorders are expected to begin the following Friday, with general availability around September 19.

Forecast timeline:

• Announcement: September 9, 2025
• Pre-orders start: Friday, September 12, 2025
• Release date: Around September 19, 2025 23

6. Rumor Accuracy and Market Expectations

The $50 price uplift for doubled storage, reported by a reputable Weibo leaker “Instant Digital,” is being viewed as a strategic move by Apple to offset import tariffs while maintaining perceived value. 24

Analysts such as Jeff Pu from GF Securities suggest that iPhone 17 prices may increase by $50–$100, depending on regional costs and manufacturing shifts. 25

Notably, content published by Tom’s Guide and other outlets advise potential buyers to delay purchases, as current models may soon drop in price once the iPhone 17 lineup launches.

7. Summary Table

Conclusion

The iPhone 17 lineup is shaping up as a balanced evolution—timely upgrades, expanded storage, refined design, and subtle pricing strategies. The rumored $50 increase aligns storage and pricing harmoniously, while features like 48MP telephoto cameras, improved displays, and new materials suggest thoughtful developments rather than radical change.

Launch is expected September 9, 2025, setting the stage for Apple’s next-generation flagship release. Watch for Apple’s official announcement to validate these circulating rumors.