The iPhone 17 Ultra Could Replace The Pro Max Model

Apple might be preparing to shake up its iPhone lineup with the introduction of an iPhone 17 Ultra. The long-rumored ultra-premium model could finally become a reality, sitting above the Pro lineup.

Rumors of the device have circulated for years, but recent reports suggest it might actually happen. According to sources on Weibo and supply chain trends shared by the tipster “yeux1122” on Naver, Apple may rebrand the iPhone 17 Pro Max as the Ultra model. This would align with Apple’s naming strategy for its high-end products, like the Apple Watch Ultra and M3 Ultra chip.

Leaks suggests that the handset will introduce exclusive features that are not found on other models. Some of the rumored changes include a smaller Dynamic Island (potentially exclusive to the Ultra model), a new vapor chamber cooling system for better thermal performance, and a larger battery, making the device slightly thicker than the Pro models

If true, these upgrades would set the Ultra apart, helping Apple justify a higher price tag. However, analysts remain divided on whether these features will be exclusive to the Ultra or shared with the Pro lineup.

Alongside the Ultra model, Apple might rename the standard lineup. The reported lineup includes the base iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and the iPhone 17 Ultra, ditching the Pro Max in the process.

This shift would mirror Apple’s naming conventions for MacBooks and iPads, where “Air,” “Pro,” and “Ultra” indicate different performance tiers.

While Apple has explored the idea of an iPhone 17 Ultra, it’s unclear if it will materialize. Without confirmation from trusted sources, we’ll have to wait for the official launch in September 2025.

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