iPhone 17 Leaks: Pixel-Like Camera Bump Hints At Major Design Shift

| Updated on February 20, 2025
Major design shift hinted in iPhone 17 leaks

The evidence indicating a major design overhaul for the iPhone 17 is increasing. A source has been leaked which seems to be a CAD render of a case for the base model. The most striking aesthetic change is found on the back, showing a prominent horizontal pill-shaped cutout indeed for the camera array and other components. 

There are no extra buttons showcased by the new CAD render, with the Camera Control and Volume Rocker placed on the same side as the iPhone 17 accessory. Whether this case design which is shared by Majin Bu on X, turns out to be accurate or not, it certainly raises questions about how the iPhone 17 might be different from the previous models of Apple. 

The alteration in design was already hinted at earlier this year by the same tipster, featuring a rear camera cutout on the left side of the back panel. It was accompanied by a small circular hole on the right which is likely for the LED flash. 

In the latest iteration, the main sensor is also located on the left, offering more clarity on the button placements. It looks like the base iPhone 17 will maintain the same configuration as the iPhone 16, with the Camera Control and volume buttons situated on one side. 

In addition to this, a cutout at the bottom indicates where the charging port will be. It is not unusual for case manufacturers to get schematics of upcoming iPhones before they are officially launched. It allows them to prepare accessories in advance. Source of Majin Bu appears to have connections with a supplier of iPhone 17 cases, that offered him some intriguing insights. It is hoped that Apple will embrace a new design as there is only so much innovation that can be achieved through internal upgrades each year.

Aimee Pearcy

Tech Journalist


×