iPhone 17 series may launch in September: Indian buyers might see higher prices this year

Apple’s next iPhone launch is just around the corner, and if the latest leaks are to be believed, we could be in for some notable changes this year. The iPhone 17 lineup is expected to include four models the standard iPhone 17, a brand-new iPhone 17 Air, and the premium iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max. But what’s already turning heads is the possibility of higher prices in India. So if you’ve been saving up for the next iPhone, you might want to keep a little extra aside this time.

Expected launch timeline

Apple usually follows a pretty consistent schedule for its iPhone launches. The event tends to happen right after Labor Day in the US, which falls on September 1 this year. That makes the week of September 8 the most likely window for the big reveal. Insiders are pointing to September 9 or 10 as the possible dates. This fits with Apple’s past pattern the iPhone 16 was unveiled on September 9 last year, and the iPhone 15 on September 12 the year before.

What’s new this time?

The most interesting addition this year could be a new model called the iPhone 17 Air. It’s expected to sit somewhere between the regular iPhone 17 and the Pro models likely offering a few extra features without going full premium. All four models are rumored to be getting a refreshed design, a new chip, and some upgraded display tech. Apple might also introduce some new color options something fans always look forward to.

Another change that might surprise people is the frame material. Apple could be moving away from titanium in the Pro models and bringing back aluminum a material we usually see in more affordable iPhones. If this turns out to be true, the phones might feel lighter and look more consistent across the entire lineup.

Price hike for Indian users

One of the biggest talking points right now is the expected price increase for Indian buyers. According to some leaks, the iPhone 17 Pro Max could be priced around ₹1,64,990 that’s nearly ₹20,000 more than what the Pro Max started at last year.

There could be several reasons for this jump global trade issues, slower demand in some markets, and rising production costs. On the plus side, Apple has been steadily expanding its manufacturing in India, which might help ease the impact a bit. Still, anyone eyeing the Pro models should be ready to shell out more this year.

Camera and display upgrades

Camera improvements are also expected. While the vertical camera setup is likely to stick around, some reports suggest the Pro models might switch to a new pill-shaped camera design. On the front, the selfie camera could see a major upgrade jumping from 12MP to 24MP. That should mean clearer selfies and sharper video calls.

As for the rear cameras, the Pro models might pack in three 48MP sensors covering wide, ultra-wide, and telephoto shots. That’s great news for anyone who’s into mobile photography or shoots a lot of videos, especially in low light.

Overall, what to expect

With a new design, camera upgrades, the return of aluminum frames, and a brand-new Air model in the mix, the iPhone 17 series looks like a solid refresh. But for Indian buyers, the main thing to watch could be the pricing. Whether Apple manages to offset the hike through local production remains to be seen. Either way, the buzz around the iPhone 17 is definitely building as we get closer to launch day.