Apple to Replace iPhone 17 Pro Max with 17 Ultra: What We Know So Far
Apple is reportedly planning a major shift in its upcoming iPhone 17 lineup. According to a reliable source from the Korean Naver blog, the iPhone 17 Pro Max may be rebranded as the iPhone 17 Ultra. This change indicates a strategic update to Apple’s product naming style, aligning it with its “Ultra” branding used in products like the Apple Watch Ultra and M3 Ultra chip.
[Insert a copyright-free image or concept photo of iPhone 17 Ultra here]
A New Lineup Structure
The report outlines a new four-tier structure in the 2024 iPhone lineup:
- iPhone 17 Air
- iPhone 17
- iPhone 17 Pro
- iPhone 17 Ultra
The Ultra model is expected to include:
- A smaller Dynamic Island
- Enhanced vapor chamber cooling
- A thicker battery for better performance
- A potentially larger 6.9-inch display
Why the Name Change?
This naming shift mirrors Apple’s past moves, such as when it introduced the “Pro” series in 2019 or the “X” model in 2017. Apple is aiming to make the Ultra tier stand out as a high-end, professional-grade device — just like the Apple Watch Ultra.
Key Takeaways
- iPhone 17 Pro Max might be renamed to iPhone 17 Ultra
- Four distinct models: Air, Standard, Pro, and Ultra
- Ultra may feature vapor chamber cooling and new Dynamic Island design
- Improved battery life and thickness
- Triple 48MP cameras and up to 12GB RAM
Breaking Down the iPhone 17 Ultra Report
Source Credibility
The rumor regarding the iPhone 17 Ultra originates from Yeux1122, a well-known Korean technology blog that has previously reported Apple-related leaks. While not all of their predictions have been accurate in the past, this particular claim is gaining attention due to references to Apple’s supply chain and U.S. tech investment sources.
Supporting this, reputable platforms like MacRumors have highlighted signs of component orders tied to new features such as the Dynamic Island. These developments give more weight to the possibility that Apple is seriously considering a shift in its flagship lineup strategy..
Possible Launch Timeline
Apple traditionally unveils new iPhones in September. Here’s a look at the rumored models:
| Model | Price | Display | Chip |
|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone 17 | $799 | 6.1" 120Hz | A19 |
| iPhone 17 Air | $899 | 6.6" 120Hz | A19 |
| iPhone 17 Pro | $1,099 | 6.7" 120Hz | A19 Pro |
| iPhone 17 Ultra | $1,199+ | 6.9" 120Hz | A19 Pro |
Apple's Product Evolution Strategy
- 2017: iPhone X introduced edge-to-edge OLED displays
- 2019: iPhone Pro added ProMotion & triple cameras
- 2023: M3 Ultra chip debuted in Macs
The Ultra name suggests a leap in performance, not just minor changes.
Rumored Features of iPhone 17 Ultra
- Smaller Dynamic Island for a cleaner display
- Vapor chamber cooling system for
