iPhone 17 Pro Max preview: Launch date, chip, camera, price, options

Apple's flagship smartphone launch is expected in September.

The Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max is widely expected to debut in September 2025, aligning with Apple’s traditional annual iPhone event.

While Apple hasn’t confirmed the exact date (too early to send out invites?), industry watchers, including Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, predict a launch in the first half of September, potentially between September 10 and 13.

Here’s a breakdown of what is available — and what’s been leaked or rumoured — about Apple’s next flagship iPhone:

Design, display

According to analyst Jeff Pu (via MacRumors), the iPhone 17 Pro Max may feature a redesigned rear camera module, offering a sleeker look that sets it apart from the iPhone 15 and 16 series. 

Display sizes are expected to remain around 6.7 inches for the Pro Max, with continued use of LTPO OLED technology and ProMotion 120Hz refresh rate.

Processor: A19 Pro Chip

The iPhone 17 Pro Max will likely be powered by the Apple A19 Pro chip, expected to be built using TSMC’s second-gen 3nm process, offering improved efficiency and performance. According to The Information, Apple is heavily investing in custom silicon improvements to push AI performance and on-device machine learning.

 

Camera: Big changes ahead

One of the standout rumours, reported by 9to5Mac and The Elec, is a complete redesign of the rear camera panel, possibly to accommodate new sensors or layout optimizations. 

Pro models are also rumoured to feature dual recording capabilities, allowing users to capture video from both front and rear cameras simultaneously — a feature that could be exclusive to the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max.

Storage & Options

While Apple hasn’t confirmed new storage tiers, the iPhone 17 Pro Max is expected to offer:

·         256GB base model

·         Up to 2TB for pro users, photographers, and content creators

·         Colour options and materials may also see a shift, with rumours of a lighter titanium chassis and new color finishes expected in 2025.

·         Software & AI Features

·         Running iOS 19, the iPhone 17 lineup will likely introduce more on-device AI features, part of Apple's broader shift toward personalized, private intelligence. Apple has hinted at deeper integration of AI-powered tools for photography, productivity, and accessibility.

·         Price?

·         No official word on pricing yet.
Based on past trends, the iPhone 17 Pro Max is expected to start at $1,199, potentially going higher depending on storage configurations. Pricing may also be impacted by rising component costs or new premium features.

·         Leaks

·         If the leaks hold true, the iPhone 17 Pro Max will be Apple’s most advanced phone yet — pairing cutting-edge design, a powerful new chip, and innovative camera capabilities. Apple’s September 2025 keynote is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated tech events of the year.–GN