iPhone 17 design leaks continue, here’s what it might cost in Pakistan 

ISLAMABAD: With the expected launch of the iPhone 17 series just a few months away, leaks and rumours about Apple’s upcoming flagship smartphones have begun to flood the internet and this time, there’s plenty to unpack.

From an unusually large camera panel to subtle tweaks in design and hardware, the upcoming models are generating both curiosity and concern, especially among users in price-sensitive markets like Pakistan.

Familiar button, unfamiliar design

Last year’s iPhone 16 series brought mixed reactions, particularly over the new Capture Button, a dedicated camera key that sparked debate among long-time iPhone users. 

While early leaks had suggested Apple might scrap the button due to lukewarm reception, recent dummy units and renders of the iPhone 17 Pro tell a different story. 

The camera button is still there, positioned on the right side of the device, indicating that Apple may be doubling down on photography-centric features in its upcoming lineup.  

But what’s grabbing even more attention is the rear design. Multiple leaks, including a 33-second video shared by well-known tipster Majin Bu, show a massive, full-width camera panel that’s thicker than anything seen on an iPhone before. The panel appears to be made of coloured glass that blends in with the phone’s rear, breaking from the usual black camera block found on previous models.  

For many, the design is a bold step forward. But for others, it’s being described as “clunky” or even “ugly”. Whether Apple’s gamble on aesthetics pays off remains to be seen.  

Thicker build, longer battery?

Reports suggest that the iPhone 17 Pro Max will be noticeably thicker than its predecessor, measuring up to 8.725mm, compared to 8.25mm on the iPhone 16 Pro Max. Though the difference may seem small on paper, it has sparked debate among users who prefer slimmer phones. Apple appears to have slightly curved the edges to help offset the added bulk, likely in a bid to improve comfort during use.  

Some analysts believe the increase in thickness could lead to better battery life, something that might appeal to power users. Still, many potential buyers remain cautious, waiting to see whether the trade-off in design is worth the added performance.  

What else is new?  

If leaks are accurate, all four iPhone 17 models are set to come with more RAM: 12GB for the Pro, Pro Max, and the new ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air, while the base model is expected to have 8GB. The iPhones are also rumoured to feature an upgraded proximity sensor using “metalens” technology, which could shrink the size of the Face ID components and possibly reduce the footprint of the Dynamic Island.  

Despite these changes, there is still uncertainty. Well-known analyst Ming-Chi Kuo believes the Dynamic Island will remain largely unchanged, even as others expect it to evolve.  

Under the hood, Apple is reportedly taking an unusual approach with processors. According to analyst Jeff Pu, the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro models will not share the same chip. The standard iPhone 17 may retain the A18 chip from the iPhone 16, while the iPhone 17 Air could run on a new A19 processor. The Pro models are said to use an upgraded A19 Pro variant.  

All four models are also expected to include a 24-megapixel front camera, while the Pro and Pro Max will feature three 48-megapixel sensors on the back, a first for Apple.  

Pakistani buyers losing interest?  

In Pakistan, interest in the iPhone 16 series has already dipped, with many criticising the device’s high prices and the unclear usefulness of new features like the camera key.  

Currently, the iPhone 16e starts at Rs283,000 for the 128GB model, while the top-tier iPhone 16 Pro Max with 1TB storage is priced around Rs624,000. With additional taxes and import duties pushing prices even higher, many potential buyers are turning to older models or Android alternatives.  

iPhone 17 price in Pakistan

The iPhone 17 base model is expected to start at around Rs400,000 in Pakistan, while the iPhone 17 Pro Max (256 GB) could be priced as high as Rs570,000, including duties and PTA approval charges.

As such, there’s growing scepticism about how well the iPhone 17 will perform in the local market. Some believe Apple’s shift in design may not be enough to justify the expected premium prices, especially in a country where affordability is increasingly driving smartphone choices.  

What’s next?  

Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 17 series in September. Until then, the company remains tight-lipped, and all eyes are on whether these leaks will match the final product. In markets like Pakistan, however, it may take more than a new camera layout or a slimmer notch to win over users. A more balanced approach to pricing, practicality and performance could be what Apple really needs. 

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