iPhone 17 Might Feature New Horizontal Camera Bar

Reports from reliable sources on Weibo hint at a bold new design for one of the iPhone 17 models, set to be released in 2025. According to Digital Chat Station, a well-known tipster, the device may adopt a horizontal, pill-shaped camera bar on its rear, deviating from Apple’s usual vertical or triangular camera arrangements.

This design change mirrors a layout seen in Google’s Pixel 9 series, which could make the iPhone 17 stand out with a fresh, distinctive aesthetic. The camera bar is said to be flush with the top edge of the phone, housing three lenses—though the specific configuration is still unconfirmed.

Additional leaked images, reportedly from Schrodinger’s British Shorthair, show an aluminum frame that complements the rumored camera bar design. This frame features a slight protrusion, supporting the horizontal bar across the rear of the device. The new setup may allow for an ultra-wide camera lens to be placed between other sensors, potentially improving ergonomics and reducing fingerprint marks on the device.

If these leaks prove accurate, the iPhone 17 could offer a visually unique design that also improves functionality, preventing wobbling when placed flat. While the design shares similarities with Google’s Pixel devices, Apple is expected to refine it to avoid direct comparisons with competitors. However, with the iPhone 17’s launch not slated until September 2025, it’s important to note that these details remain speculative and subject to change.