Apple has announced that its eagerly awaited “Awe Dropping” event will take place on September 9, 2025, focusing on the upcoming generation of iPhones. Alongside expected performance enhancements and camera improvements, this year may introduce a brand new model, the iPhone 17 Air, which would be the first smartphone to carry the “Air” branding. Additionally, new colors, faster displays, AI-enhanced performance, and possibly AirPods Pro 3 are anticipated. Apple is set to refresh its color palette, with the standard iPhone 17 likely to come in black, white, steel grey, light blue, and new green and purple options. The Pro models are expected to offer bolder colors, including deep blue and fluorescent orange.
The iPhone 17 Air may feature softer pastel shades and a subtle gold finish called Gardenia. Notably, Apple might revert to aluminum for the Pro models instead of titanium. The iPhone 17 Air is rumored to replace the “Plus” series and could be the slimmest iPhone to date, measuring only 5.5mm thick. Despite its thin profile, it is expected to include a 6.6-inch display, 12GB of RAM, and a single 48MP rear camera arranged in a new horizontal layout. This model is aimed at consumers seeking a lightweight and stylish phone without the bulk of the Pro Max, although concerns about battery life may arise due to its compact design.
In a significant update, Apple might introduce 120Hz refresh rates across the entire iPhone 17 lineup, a feature previously exclusive to Pro models. While the Pro lineup is expected to retain advanced LTPO panels that can drop to 1Hz for the Always-On Display, standard models may feature a simpler adaptive refresh rate ranging from 60Hz to 120Hz. The iPhone 17 series is expected to be powered by Apple’s new A19 processors, built on TSMC’s 3nm technology. The standard iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Air will likely utilize the A19 chip, while the Pro versions could be equipped with the A19 Pro for enhanced efficiency, heat management, and improved AI capabilities.
Photography enthusiasts can look forward to considerable upgrades in the iPhone 17 Pro series, as all three rear cameras are rumored to feature 48MP sensors, and the Pro Max may offer an impressive 8x optical zoom. Apple might introduce a rectangular camera bar design and enable dual video recording, allowing users to capture footage from both the front and rear cameras simultaneously. Furthermore, all iPhone 17 models may come with a 24MP front camera, providing a notable improvement for selfies. Beyond the iPhones, Apple is expected to unveil the much-anticipated AirPods Pro 3, which may include in-ear heart rate and temperature sensors, enhanced noise cancellation, improved spatial audio, and closer integration with iOS 26 AI.
There are also rumors of real-time translation features, although their effectiveness is yet to be confirmed. In terms of accessories, Apple may discontinue its criticized FineWoven cases in favor of more durable TechWoven alternatives, along with new colorful silicone cases and bumper designs specifically for the iPhone 17 Air. With slimmer models, smarter accessories, and vibrant colors, Apple’s September 9 event promises to be one of the most exciting launches in recent years.