Apple has always been known for its careful, incremental design changes rather than radical overhauls. While every new iPhone gets some tweaks, the general look tends to stay consistent for years. We’ve seen this with the notch design, which stuck around for six generations before finally being replaced by the Dynamic Island on the iPhone 15. And when it comes to the camera setup, Apple has held onto its square camera array since the iPhone 11. However, a new iPhone 17 concept dares to dream of bold changes that, while intriguing, are highly unlikely under Apple’s cautious design philosophy.
A Design Apple Won’t Take — But We Can Dream
The iPhone 17 concept, designed by Mohamed Mahdy, envisions a striking departure from Apple’s usual minimalistic design language. One of the most noticeable changes in the concept is the phone’s textured finish, almost resembling fabric. This is a significant departure from Apple’s typically sleek and smooth metallic designs. It also proposes using sustainable recycled materials in the chassis, which could appeal to the eco-conscious consumer base. However, while Apple has dabbled in sustainability, particularly with its commitments to carbon neutrality and recycled materials, it tends to stay conservative with texture choices, sticking to glass and metal finishes.
The Revolutionary Camera Setup
Perhaps the boldest idea from this concept is the camera layout. Unlike the now-iconic square bump with multiple lenses in the corner, the concept imagines a pill-shaped camera array that runs horizontally across the phone’s back. It features four cameras, which would be a first for Apple, with a 3D time-of-flight sensor and LED flash centered in the array. This setup would not only change the look but could also address a common complaint with current iPhones—the wobbling caused by the off-center camera bump.
The idea behind this redesign is practical as well as aesthetic. The horizontal alignment helps solve the stability issue when placing the phone on a flat surface, something that’s particularly annoying for users when typing or interacting with the device on a table. While this sounds practical, the chances of Apple adopting such a radical redesign seem slim. The company has historically focused more on subtle refinements than dramatic shifts.
The Unlikely Leap Apple Would Take
While this iPhone 17 concept offers an exciting glimpse into what could be, it’s not aligned with Apple’s usual design ethos. Apple has been the champion of minimalism, and this is reflected in its refusal to introduce more vibrant designs for its flagship phones in recent years (with the exception of a few special editions). Instead, the company tends to stick to classy, understated aesthetics, leaving the more eye-popping hues for accessories and cases. The iPhone 17 concept embraces a more adventurous and colorful approach, which could appeal to some users, but it’s unlikely to see the light of day in a real Apple product.
Why Apple Won’t Go This Route
While it’s fun to imagine these futuristic designs, Apple is deeply entrenched in its strategy of slow, deliberate innovation. The company has consistently taken small steps in design evolution, sticking to a formula that keeps loyal users happy while attracting new customers gradually. Radical design changes could alienate its massive user base and would likely offer few practical benefits beyond aesthetics. Even with a greater focus on sustainability and ergonomic improvements, the chances of Apple embracing such a bold leap are slim.
In the end, while the iPhone 17 concept sparks curiosity and creativity, it serves more as a thought experiment than a roadmap for Apple’s future. Given the company’s history, it’s safe to say that the iPhone 17 will probably stick closer to the design of its predecessors, with slight refinements rather than sweeping changes.
Tricia Nelson is a skilled writer at 3Zebras, known for her insightful articles on technology, science, and gaming. She covers a wide range of topics, from the potential of nanotechnology in mimicking cobwebs to exploring new discoveries in astronomy. Tricia’s work stands out for its clear explanations and engaging style, making complex subjects accessible to all readers. Her contributions have made her a respected voice in the 3Zebras community,