A major design change is expected for the iPhone 17 Pro, although it appears to be limited to the camera module. According to recent rumors, the rest of the device will retain a design similar to previous generations. In recent weeks, several leaks have revealed the new camera module, but until now, it hadn’t been seen in accessories like phone cases.
Well-known leaker Sonny Dickson, who has previously shared CAD models of the iPhone 17 series, recently posted an image on X showing two clear cases for the iPhone 17 Pro. The cases feature a cutout for the much-rumored new camera module.
First look at some cases for the new iPhone 17 Pro — wow, that camera hole is huge! Apple’s really turning heads with this design. pic.twitter.com/IKJ4DqksCE
— Sonny Dickson (@SonnyDickson) April 9, 2025
If the rumors are accurate, both the iPhone 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max will move away from the familiar square module with three lenses arranged in a triangle. Instead, they’ll adopt a large horizontal camera bar stretching across the top rear of the device, with the lenses positioned on the left and other sensors and components on the right.
This redesign can already be seen in the leaked cases, which have a large opening at the top for the new module. While it’s still early, it seems that third-party accessory makers already have rough measurements of Apple’s upcoming devices.
For now, little is known about the new module’s technical specs beyond its look. However, there’s a clear reason for the change. One major upgrade is expected to be the telephoto lens, which, according to leaks, could jump from the current 12 megapixels to 48—marking a significant improvement in photo quality.
Another recent leak suggests the color of the new camera module may match the device itself rather than being black, creating a more seamless and uniform appearance.
Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max in September, alongside the iPhone 17 and the new iPhone 17 Air—set to be the company’s thinnest model yet, measuring just over 5 mm thick.