As the tech world looks ahead to 2026, the hype surrounding Apple’s next flagship device is growing.
According to reports, the upcoming iPhone 17 Pro is expected to receive significant enhancements, including a cutting-edge anti-glare display and a noticeably slimmer profile.
The scratch-resistant, anti-reflective display layer, a feature Apple aimed for in some iPhone 17 models, has overcome its production hurdles, indicating it could now be included in the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max.
What to Expect: Anti-Glare Display and Slimmer Build
According to a trusted source who spoke with MacRumors, Apple’s partners have achieved sufficient production rates for the anti-glare display material. This means the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max are poised to receive this display upgrade, unlike the iPhone 17 or iPhone 17 Air.
The iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max will reportedly feature a scratch-resistant, anti-reflective display 🚨
The new display tech will not be available on the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Air
Source: anonymous via @MacRumors pic.twitter.com/zZVoNW3QE4
— Apple Hub (@theapplehub) July 18, 2025
We first heard whispers of this anti-glare display coating back in 2024. This new layer is reportedly tougher against scratches than Ceramic Shield, meaning iPhone 17 models equipped with it could show improved resilience to everyday damage.
Production Puzzles: Solving the Display Challenge
Earlier in the year, Apple faced difficulties with ramping up the display coating process, leading to concerns that the feature might be scrapped. Applying the anti-reflective layer proved too time-consuming, hindering production. However, the process has since been refined, making the new display a possibility once more.
While existing iPhone models come with a fingerprint-repelling oleophobic coating and Ceramic Shield, the Tim Cook-led tech giant hasn’t prioritised anti-reflective properties for its phone screens as it has for iPad and Mac displays.
The latest Samsung smartphones feature Gorilla Glass Armour, a design element that reduces reflections by up to 75% and enhances contrast under intense illumination. Apple may bring in similar technology to compete with Samsung’s recent innovations.
While nothing is set in stone yet, the rumour mill has been churning out numerous speculations surrounding the iPhone 17 lineup, reportedly scheduled for release in September.
iPhone 17 Price: What to Expect for the New Models
iPhone pricing predictions are rarely accurate. Each year, analysts and tipsters foresee a price increase, yet Apple usually maintains its current rates. However, this pattern could finally shift in 2025.
According to a May report from The Wall Street Journal, Apple is set to raise iPhone prices in the coming months. The firm reportedly aims to explain this increase through product enhancements and fresh designs, deliberately sidestepping any mention of tariffs to prevent an adverse public reaction.
Simultaneously, Donald Trump announced a potential 25% tariff on iPhones manufactured beyond US borders. Despite Apple having already relocated some production to India to circumvent earlier tariffs, this recent declaration could still influence global pricing when the iPhone 17 arrives.
Specifics from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman in March suggest that the iPhone 17 Air, intended as the successor to the iPhone 16 Plus, will retain the iPhone 16 Plus’s price point of $899 (£668.97) in the US and £899 in the UK. Such a cost might make it the most budget-friendly of the new lineup, despite its sleeker form and potential battery considerations.
iPhone 17 Rumours: What the Buzz Suggests
With reports hinting at a sleeker iPhone 17 Air, design adjustments across the range, and potential enhancements like a 48MP front camera and ProMotion displays extending to non-Pro models, the iPhone 17 could represent one of the more exciting updates in recent years – if these leaked details prove accurate.
The iPhone 17 Air will be the only iPhone model this year with a titanium frame 😳
The Pro models will feature an aluminum frame for the first time. pic.twitter.com/JHPhhq9ZvG
— CRE8TIVE BRAND🌻 (@debrat2k) July 17, 2025
This year’s pricing may not remain unchanged, with indications of potential hikes due to new design expenses and the possibility of US tariffs. The rumoured shift to aluminium for the Pro models could feel like a regression, and although a fresh sky blue colour might add appeal, the iPhone 17 Air’s single camera and speaker could divide users.
iPhone 17 Pro New Colors Revealed
Full Article:https://t.co/3knFKWBdB7 pic.twitter.com/tGoZABVTGP
— Majin Bu (@MajinBuOfficial) July 17, 2025
A novel silicon-anode battery could compensate for its sleeker form factor, but the significant uncertainty lies with Apple Intelligence, given that several features are still anticipated for 2026.
Originally published on IBTimes UK