Apple's upcoming iPhone 17 lineup is set to introduce significant display changes across the entire range, with the standard model receiving a notable screen size upgrade that will blur the lines between regular and Pro variants. Industry analysts are reporting substantial modifications to the traditional iPhone sizing strategy, marking a potential shift in how Apple positions its different models.
Standard iPhone 17 Gets Pro-Level Display Size
The most significant change comes to the standard iPhone 17, which will feature a 6.3-inch display compared to the current iPhone 16's 6.1-inch screen. This upgrade represents more than just a minor size increase—it positions the base model iPhone 17 with the same display dimensions as the iPhone 17 Pro for the first time in recent memory. Display analyst Ross Young has corroborated these reports, lending credibility to the leaked specifications that have been circulating in tech circles.
Display Size Comparison: iPhone 16 vs iPhone 17
Current iPhone 16 Series:
- iPhone 16: 6.1 inches
- iPhone 16 Plus: 6.7 inches
- iPhone 16 Pro: 6.1 inches
- iPhone 16 Pro Max: 6.9 inches
Upcoming iPhone 17 Series:
- iPhone 17: 6.3 inches (+0.2 inches)
- iPhone 17 Air: 6.6 inches (replaces Plus model, -0.1 inches)
- iPhone 17 Pro: 6.3 inches (+0.2 inches)
- iPhone 17 Pro Max: 6.9 inches (unchanged)
Achieving Larger Screens Through Design Innovation
Apple appears to be accomplishing this screen size increase without significantly altering the overall device dimensions. The company is expected to achieve this through slimmer bezels, similar to the approach used in Pro models. This design strategy allows for more screen real estate while maintaining comfortable handling characteristics that users expect from the standard iPhone model.
Complete iPhone 17 Lineup Specifications
The entire iPhone 17 series will showcase Apple's new sizing philosophy across four distinct models. The standard iPhone 17 will sport its 6.3-inch display, while the iPhone 17 Pro maintains the same screen size. The iPhone 17 Air, replacing the Plus model, will feature a 6.6-inch OLED display—slightly smaller than the current iPhone 16 Plus's 6.7-inch screen. At the top of the range, the iPhone 17 Pro Max will retain its 6.9-inch display, continuing to serve as Apple's largest smartphone offering.
iPhone 17 Series Display Specifications
| Model | Display Size | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 17 | 6.3 inches | Same size as Pro model, slimmer bezels |
| iPhone 17 Air | 6.6 inches | OLED display, 5.5mm thickness |
| iPhone 17 Pro | 6.3 inches | Premium display features, horizontal camera bar |
| iPhone 17 Pro Max | 6.9 inches | Largest display in lineup |
Revolutionary iPhone 17 Air Takes Center Stage
The iPhone 17 Air emerges as the most intriguing addition to the lineup, representing Apple's push toward ultra-thin design aesthetics. With a thickness of just 5.5mm, this model will claim the title of Apple's slimmest iPhone ever created. The Air model will incorporate Apple's custom modem technology and feature a single-lens camera system, distinguishing it from the more camera-focused Pro variants.
Design Evolution Across the Range
Beyond display changes, the iPhone 17 series will introduce the most significant design refresh in years for the Pro models. These premium variants will feature a horizontal camera bar positioned at the top of the device, sharing design language with the iPhone 17 Air. The Pro models will maintain their triple-lens camera setup with LiDAR scanner, while the Air model's minimalist approach focuses on essential photography capabilities.
Market Positioning and Competitive Impact
These changes suggest Apple is responding to market demands for larger displays across all price points while maintaining clear distinctions between model tiers. The standard iPhone 17's display upgrade positions it more competitively in the mid-range market, while the Air model creates an entirely new category for users prioritizing portability and style over camera capabilities. As the iPhone 17 launch approaches, these specifications indicate Apple's commitment to diversifying its smartphone portfolio to meet varying consumer preferences.