Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro Max may see the return of the popular Desert Titanium finish, alongside a bold Sky Blue option. Rumours suggest a redesigned aluminium-glass back, a larger battery, and a horizontal camera bar. Expected to launch in September 2025, the device promises enhanced durability and wireless charging.
iPhone 17 Pro Max: Will Desert Titanium Shine Again?
Recent leaks and industry reports have sparked excitement about Apple’s upcoming iPhone 17 Pro Max, slated for a September 2025 launch. Among the most intriguing rumours is the potential return of the Desert Titanium finish, a restrained peach-toned colour that debuted with the iPhone 16 Pro series. Sources indicate that Apple may retain this popular hue, which has been described as a “golden” shade, alongside introducing a new Sky Blue colourway inspired by the M4 MacBook Air. The Sky Blue finish, noted for its metallic light blue gradient, could replace Desert Titanium as the signature colour for the iPhone 17 Pro models, though some reports suggest both colours might coexist.
The iPhone 17 Pro Max is expected to undergo a significant design overhaul. Unlike the titanium frame used in the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro, the new model may feature a hybrid aluminium-glass back. This shift is aimed at improving wireless charging efficiency and enhancing durability. The device is rumoured to be slightly thicker at 8.725mm, potentially accommodating a larger 5,000mAh battery—the biggest ever in an iPhone. This upgrade could significantly boost battery life, addressing user demands for longer usage times.
Another notable change is the redesigned camera module. Leaks suggest a horizontal camera bar or a large rectangular bump with rounded corners, maintaining the triangular lens arrangement. This could give the iPhone 17 Pro Max a modern, two-tone aesthetic. The front camera is tipped to receive a 24MP upgrade, while the rear setup may include three 48MP sensors—Wide, Ultra-Wide, and an improved Telephoto with 3.5x zoom. Additionally, the device is expected to support dual video recording, allowing simultaneous use of front and rear cameras in the Camera app.
The iPhone 17 Pro Max will likely be powered by the A19 Pro Bionic chipset, paired with iOS 26, featuring the new Liquid Glass interface unveiled in June 2025. Reports also hint at a repositioned Apple logo on the rear, possibly to align with internal component changes or the new camera placement. While some sources claim the iPhone 17 Pro Max might retain a titanium frame, the consensus leans towards an aluminium design for most models in the iPhone 17 series, except possibly the ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air, which may feature titanium exclusively.
Pricing details remain speculative, but leaks suggest the iPhone 17 Pro Max could be pricier due to its advanced features. The iPhone 16 Pro Max in Desert Titanium (256GB) is currently available at a 6% discount on Amazon, priced at Rs 135,900, indicating strong demand for the colour. As the launch approaches, anticipation is building for whether Apple will stick with the fan-favourite Desert Titanium or pivot to bold new shades like Sky Blue.
Disclaimer: This article is based on leaks, rumours, and reports from sources like MacRumors, Forbes, Times of India, and posts on X. Information is subject to change, and official details will be confirmed at Apple’s September 2025 event. Readers are advised to verify specifications and pricing before making purchase decisions.