Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro May Shrink Camera Sensor, But Performance Stays Strong

Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro models are expected to come with a smaller main camera sensor compared to the iPhone 16 Pro.

According to a recent leak from Digital Chat Station, a source on Weibo, the iPhone 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max will feature a 1/1.3-inch sensor for their 48MP main camera.

This is a slight reduction from the 1/1.28-inch sensor used in the iPhone 16 Pro. The difference in size is minor, with the 1/1.28-inch sensor offering a slightly larger surface area than the 1/1.3-inch sensor. However, this small change is unlikely to result in a noticeable difference in everyday photography.

Despite the smaller sensor, the iPhone 17 Pro’s camera performance may not suffer. The size change could be balanced out by other improvements in the camera system.

Apple may introduce new features or enhancements that will help maintain or even improve the overall quality of photos and videos. Users are unlikely to see a significant dip in the camera’s performance, as the technology behind the sensor is still capable of capturing high-quality images.

The reason behind the smaller sensor could be related to space constraints due to a new camera bump design. Leaks suggest that Apple is planning a larger, rectangular-style camera bump made of aluminum rather than glass.

This design change could allow for a more streamlined look and smoother integration between the camera bump and the rear cover of the phone. The shift to aluminum could also contribute to a sturdier, more durable design.

In addition to the camera sensor change, the iPhone 17 Pro may feature three 48MP cameras for the first time. This would mark a significant upgrade, offering users more flexibility and options for photography.

The iPhone 17 series is expected to be released around mid-September 2025, following Apple’s usual release schedule.

While the camera sensor change may seem minor, it reflects Apple’s ongoing efforts to refine the iPhone’s design and technology, ensuring that users still get top-tier performance despite the adjustments.