Welcome to Rumor Replay, a weekly feature from DMN that provides a concise overview of the latest Apple product rumors, supplemented by analysis and commentary. This week, we discuss leaks pertaining to the iPhone 17 Air, insights into Apple’s upcoming spring products, potential redesigns in iOS 19, and more. Here’s the latest on Apple rumors.
Leaked Design of the iPhone 17 Air’s Camera Bar
The first potential look at this fall’s iPhone 17 Air surfaced through a leaked image that corresponds with CAD drawings obtained by DMN. It reveals a full-width ‘camera bar’ located on the back of the device, marking a significant departure from the corner bump seen in earlier iPhone models.
My Thoughts
The leak regarding the iPhone 17 Air indicates a notable shift in iPhone design, aligning with earlier speculations. Both the 17 Air and 17 Pro models have been anticipated to feature a type of rectangular bump. However, the presence of only one rear camera on the Air adds an extra layer of intrigue.
The dimensions of the ‘camera bar’ elucidate Ming Chi-Kuo’s earlier comment regarding the 17 Air being 5.5mm at its ‘thinnest point.’ While a tapered design was considered, the substantial camera design clarifies Kuo’s assertion, even without an extreme redesign.
Details on Apple’s Spring Products
This week unveiled several rumors surrounding two anticipated spring releases from Apple.
First, a leaked graphic for the forthcoming iPhone SE suggests it could feature a Dynamic Island. Furthermore, Mark Gurman highlighted that stock of the existing SE model is dwindling in Apple Stores—indicative of not only the impending refresh but also possibly the discontinuation of this model.
Lastly, conflicting reports have emerged regarding whether the upcoming iPad Air will incorporate an M3 or M4 chip; however, a recent code reference supports the prospect of an M3 upgrade.
My Thoughts
The developments regarding the iPhone SE are particularly fascinating.
If the new SE indeed includes a Dynamic Island, it would strip the base iPhone 16 of one of its last competitive advantages over the more affordable option. While this decision might be puzzling, it would be positive for cost-conscious consumers. Personally, I still consider a standard notch to be more plausible.
The decreasing inventory of the current iPhone SE models indicates that Apple plans to phase out the older SE at a lower price point. Although this isn’t surprising, the company might still opt to sell it in emerging markets.
As for the iPad Air, whether it receives an M3 or M4 is not particularly consequential, but maintaining the M3 would create further distinction for the iPad Pro series. However, I question the rationale behind such a quick, minor update—unless the new Air has some hidden enhancements yet to be revealed.
Redesign of the iOS 19 Camera App and macOS 15.4 Mail Update
Jon Prosser revealed on his YouTube channel that Apple intends to overhaul the Camera app in iOS 19, along with possibly other system applications. The redesign aims to incorporate a visionOS-inspired translucent aesthetic.
Additionally, Mark Gurman noted that the major redesign of Apple Mail for the iPhone will soon extend to Mac and iPad. It is anticipated to debut with macOS 15.4 and iPadOS 15.4 in April.
My Thoughts
I find the concept of a visionOS-style aesthetic for iOS 19 to be exciting. However, if implemented, it’s unlikely that it will affect more than a handful of applications.
Apple’s era of releasing significant iOS overhauls seems to be in the past. Their current approach involves making minor improvements to specific apps and system features progressively over time.
That said, I sincerely hope Prosser’s insights are accurate and that Apple has some appealing design updates lined up for this year.
Regarding the Mail updates coming to macOS and iPad, it’s reassuring that we won’t have to endure a long wait. While I’ve personally opted out of certain updates in iOS 18.2 for Mail on the iPhone, I appreciate having uniformity across devices.
Enhanced Cooling System for the iPhone 17
In closing today, a new report from the Chinese tech site MyDrivers suggests that Apple is implementing modifications across the entire iPhone 17 range to enhance cooling capabilities.
Ming-Chi Kuo had earlier mentioned that the 17 Pro Max would be equipped with a vapor chamber in addition to its graphite sheet cooling system, but it appears that this upgrade may extend to other models as well.
My Thoughts
While the source is somewhat questionable, this report aligns logically with current trends. Apple is reportedly pushed to adopt substantial hardware improvements across its products which may not have been prioritized otherwise. Incrementing RAM across various iPhones, iPads, and Macs, along with specialized Apple silicon upgrades and advanced cooling solutions, are all indicative of the major AI advancements on the horizon.
What are your insights on this week’s Apple rumors? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Top iPhone Accessories
: . More.
