The iPhone 17 lineup is expected to introduce several changes in camera design and functionality, but there is no specific mention of an "iPhone 17 Ultra" model in the current rumors. Instead, Apple is rumored to introduce an "iPhone 17 Air" model, which is expected to replace the Plus variant in their lineup. Here's what we know about the camera systems for the different models:
- iPhone 17 Air: This model is rumored to feature a horizontal camera bar design, accommodating a single camera lens. It is not expected to include advanced features like periscope lenses found in Pro models[1][3]. There are also rumors suggesting that the iPhone 17 Air might have a variable aperture for its rear camera[6].
- iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max: These models are expected to have a significant redesign, moving away from the traditional square camera bump to a horizontal aluminum camera bar that spans the device's width. Both Pro models are rumored to feature three 48-megapixel lenses, including a main lens, an ultra-wide lens, and a telephoto lens with enhanced zoom capabilities[1][4]. The front camera on these models is also expected to be upgraded to 24 megapixels[4][7].
- Base iPhone 17: This model is likely to retain the current camera design seen in previous models, featuring two lenses. It will not include advanced features like periscope lenses available in Pro models[1][3].
Overall, while there isn't specific information on an "iPhone 17 Ultra," the camera systems across the iPhone 17 lineup are expected to vary significantly, with the Pro models offering more advanced features and higher resolution cameras.
Citations:
[1] https://www.macrumors.com/2025/02/24/revealed-entire-iphone-17-lineups-camera-designs/
[2] https://www.initialfocusmedia.com/articles/capturing-the-world-evolution-of-iphone-camera-technology-over-the-years
[3] https://bgr.com/tech/iphone-17-air-wont-have-one-of-the-iphones-most-widely-used-camera-features/
[4] https://www.reddit.com/r/apple/comments/1hy1pcv/both_iphone_17_pro_models_rumored_to_feature/
[5] https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2024/09/apple-debuts-iphone-16-pro-and-iphone-16-pro-max/
[6] https://www.phonearena.com/iphone-17-release-date-price-features-news
[7] https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/iphone-17-rumors-thinner-air-design-camera-bar-and-everything-else-we-could-see/
[8] https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/iphone-14-pro-cameras-are-a-big-leap-for-photo-enthusiasts/
[9] https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/iphone-17-camera-redesign-rumors-conflict-on-spatial-video-support.2448279/