The iPhone’s iconic design has remained remarkably consistent since its debut in 2007, with recognizable features despite evolving sizes and materials. A recent rumor suggests Apple might be revisiting a classic design element for the iPhone 17: curved edges. This shift would mark a departure from the straight-edged design prevalent in current models.
This rumor originates from a leak by Fixed-Focus Digital on Weibo, a popular Chinese social media platform. The leak indicates that the iPhone 17 might bring back the rounded sides reminiscent of earlier iPhone generations. This design choice could address some users’ concerns about the comfort of the current flat-edged models, especially for those who prefer using their phones without a case. While the leak doesn’t offer specifics on which iPhone 17 models might feature this change, Apple’s history suggests it could be implemented across the entire lineup, or perhaps limited to either the base models or the Pro and Pro Max versions.
Historically, iPhones from the original model up to the iPhone 4 sported curved edges, a design feature that has reappeared periodically in subsequent generations. Apple has seemingly alternated between curved and straight edges over the years. The iPhone 12 series, released in 2020, marked the return of the flat-edge design, which has persisted through subsequent releases. If the curved edge rumor proves true for the iPhone 17, it could represent one of the most significant iPhone design overhauls in recent years.
iPhone 16 Pro Max in Desert Titanium.The curved edge rumor aligns with other circulating leaks, such as the possibility of a 120Hz display for the iPhone 17. However, conflicting reports also exist, including speculation about a Pixel-like camera arrangement and the potential use of an aluminum frame instead of titanium for the Pro models.
The rumor mill is churning with various leaks and speculations about the iPhone 17, many of which contradict each other. Given the early stage of development, it’s premature to definitively confirm any specific features. More concrete details are likely to emerge closer to Apple’s anticipated fall event.
While leaks are inevitable, Apple has a relatively good track record of maintaining secrecy. The details that do surface are often fragmented and incomplete. Nevertheless, based on historical patterns, a September release for the iPhone 17 seems highly probable, with the potential addition of an iPhone 17 Air to the lineup.
