Why Apple launched iPhone 17 Ultra this year

Before the iPhone 15 was released, Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman suggested that the Pro Max model might be called the Ultra, but that didn't happen. That information was mentioned again during the iPhone 16 series, when Gurman suggested that the iPhone 16 Ultra would launch alongside the iPhone 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max. That didn't happen again. Now, the news about the Ultra model continues, specifically the iPhone 17 Ultra will replace the iPhone 17 Pro Max.

Exclusive features make the iPhone 17 Ultra worth choosing

PHOTO: YAHOO

iPhone 17 Ultra to launch with exclusive features

This information was provided by leaker yeux1122, who said that only the iPhone 17 Ultra will have the smaller Dynamic Island because Apple's orders for this component are only enough for the highest-end model. In addition, yeux1122 said that the new vapor chamber is also exclusive to the iPhone 17 Ultra. The Ultra model is said to be thicker to accommodate a larger battery and a cell to accommodate the vapor chamber, which are also two exclusive features of this version.

Additionally, MacRumors claimed that only the iPhone 17 Pro Max would have 12GB of RAM, although later leaks suggested that this would apply to both Pro models as well. Similarly, initially only the Pro Max was said to have a new 48MP periscope camera, but it was later reported that the iPhone 17 Pro would also feature three 48MP rear cameras.

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yeux1122 also points out that Apple may be looking to change its naming convention, with the Plus model expected to be replaced by a thinner variant called the iPhone 17 Air. This makes sense given that Apple has expanded the iPhone 16 lineup with the addition of the iPhone 16e, which was previously expected to be called the iPhone SE 4.

Using the Ultra moniker would help Apple create a clear distinction between its premium models. The company experimented with this in 2023, when it only equipped the iPhone 15 Pro Max with a 5x periscope camera, while the differences between the iPhone 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max were less pronounced. Apple has applied the Ultra brand to its most powerful chips and best watches, and the label would elevate the iPhone 17 Pro Max as a premium model.

Additionally, Apple is likely to make drastic changes to iOS 19 and is preparing for the launch of a foldable iPhone model in the near future. Positioning its flagship product with the Ultra brand could help the company compete directly with the Galaxy S25 Ultra.