I’ve just came across Unbox Therapy with a rare opportunity to examine what appears to be the next generation iPhone months before its official release. These pre-production samples from China offer our best indication of what Apple has in store for the iPhone 17 lineup, and I must say, Apple is taking a significant design risk this time around.
The most striking change from the unboxing video is immediately apparent: Apple is moving to a two-tone back design that represents their biggest aesthetic shift in years. Gone is the uniform matte glass back we’ve grown accustomed to. Instead, the new design features a rectangular glass section in the center, surrounded by what rumors suggest will be aluminum rather than the titanium frame found in current Pro models.
A Controversial New Look
Seeing the high-quality iPhone 17 Pro Max sample in hand, my first impression wasn’t entirely positive. The two-tone back with its rectangular glass island surrounded by metal creates a stark visual contrast that may take time to grow on users. Some might even call it ugly at first glance.
The camera arrangement maintains the triangular layout we’ve seen in recent generations, reportedly to support spatial video capabilities that Apple considers crucial. However, the flash has been relocated all the way to the opposite side of the camera module, creating an unusual asymmetry.
This design shift represents Apple’s attempt to visually differentiate the new generation in a market desperate for novelty. While many users will simply cover it with a case, this represents a bold aesthetic gamble for the tech giant.
Size and Build Changes
Beyond the visual redesign, the iPhone 17 Pro Max sample reveals several dimensional changes. According to measurements on the sample, we’re looking at a device that’s 149.63mm tall, 71.44mm wide, and 8.75mm thick. This makes it noticeably thicker than current models.
The increased thickness likely accommodates several rumored improvements:
- A slightly larger battery
- Faster wireless charging capabilities
- New reverse wireless charging functionality
- Improved wired charging (potentially up to 35W)
While the device might be thicker, the rumored switch from titanium to aluminum could help offset some weight gain. The camera bump appears to create slightly less wobble when placed on a flat surface, which is a small but welcome improvement.
Expected Performance and Camera Upgrades
While seeing Unbox Therapy with a hands-on experience focuses primarily on physical design, the iPhone 17 Pro Max is expected to deliver substantial internal upgrades. The device will almost certainly feature Apple’s next-generation chip, bringing improved performance and efficiency.
Camera improvements appear to be a major focus, with rumors suggesting:
- 48-megapixel sensors across all rear cameras
- An upgraded 24-megapixel front-facing camera
- Maintained support for spatial video recording
These camera enhancements, combined with the new processor, should deliver meaningful improvements for photography enthusiasts and everyday users alike.
The Market Impact
Despite initial aesthetic reservations, history suggests that Apple’s design choices tend to normalize quickly. What seems jarring today will likely become the new standard within months of release. The two-tone back may even spark a trend among Android manufacturers, who often follow Apple’s design language.
With pricing rumored to start around $1,250, these will remain premium devices aimed at users who demand cutting-edge technology. The question is whether the design changes will drive upgrades among existing iPhone owners or potentially push some toward competing devices with different aesthetic approaches.
Ultimately, while I’m not immediately sold on the new look, I recognize that design preferences are subjective. The functional improvements—better cameras, longer battery life, and faster charging—may well outweigh any aesthetic concerns for most users.
The iPhone 17 Pro Max represents Apple’s willingness to take design risks after several generations of incremental changes. Whether this particular gamble pays off remains to be seen, but it certainly gives the tech world something new to talk about.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When will the iPhone 17 Pro Max be released?
Based on Apple’s typical release schedule, we can expect the iPhone 17 Pro Max to launch in September 2023. Apple generally holds its iPhone event in early to mid-September, with devices becoming available for purchase about 10 days later.
Q: What are the main design changes in the iPhone 17 Pro Max?
The most notable design change is the two-tone back, featuring a rectangular glass section in the center surrounded by what’s rumored to be an aluminum frame. The device is also slightly thicker than previous models, and the flash has been relocated to the opposite side of the camera module.
Q: Will the iPhone 17 Pro Max have better battery life?
The increased thickness suggests room for a larger battery, which should translate to improved battery life. Additionally, the new processor will likely be more energy-efficient, further extending usage time between charges.
Q: How much will the iPhone 17 Pro Max cost?
Rumors suggest the iPhone 17 Pro Max will start around $1,250, representing a premium price point in line with Apple’s positioning of the Pro Max as their flagship offering. Final pricing will be confirmed at Apple’s official announcement.
Q: Are there any new features coming to the iPhone 17 Pro Max?
Beyond the design changes, the iPhone 17 Pro Max is expected to feature reverse wireless charging (allowing you to charge other devices using your iPhone), faster wired charging up to 35W, improved cameras with 48-megapixel sensors throughout, and a new processor that will deliver better performance and efficiency.
