Apple’s upcoming iPhone 17 base model is reportedly being considered for a splash of new color, with rumors suggesting the company is testing vibrant Purple and natural Green options. While testing appears to include both potential hues, it’s anticipated that only one will ultimately make the final cut for the 2025 lineup.
According to information circulating among leakers, Purple is currently seen as the frontrunner. Internal descriptions reportedly highlight a “vibrant hue” designed to complement the aluminum frame and appeal to users seeking a device with “bold personality.” The potential Green option is characterized as a “fresh and natural tone,” ideal for a more “minimalist yet striking aesthetic.”
Apple often introduces new colors to refresh its standard iPhone models. The current iPhone 16 base model is available in five colors: Ultramarine, Teal, Pink, White, and Black. If a new Purple or Green option is introduced, it’s likely that one or two of the existing colors might be retired to make space in the production lineup. It’s worth noting that Purple has appeared in various shades on recent iPhone models (like the iPhone 12, 13, and 15), often proving popular.
The source of this specific color rumor is leaker Majin Bu, who has a mixed track record regarding Apple predictions. While they accurately leaked the Mac-like menu bar coming to iPadOS 26, their claim about Stage Manager arriving on USB-C iPhones with iOS 26 turned out to be incorrect. As with all pre-release information, these color options should be viewed as possibilities still subject to change.
Beyond the Hues: Other iPhone 17 Rumors
While new colors offer a cosmetic refresh, other rumors point to potentially more significant upgrades for the base iPhone 17 model, suggesting it might be a more substantial update than its predecessor.
Display: A notable improvement is rumored for the display. The base iPhone 17 is expected to feature a slightly larger 6.3-inch screen, an increase from the 6.1-inch display on the iPhone 16. Display industry experts also suggest this model could finally bring a 120Hz refresh rate (ProMotion) to the standard iPhone line, a feature previously exclusive to Pro models. This would result in significantly smoother scrolling and animations.
Performance: Apple analyst Jeff Pu indicates the iPhone 17 base model will likely retain the A18 chip found in the iPhone 16, manufactured on the N3E process. It’s also expected to maintain 8GB of RAM, matching the current generation. While the chip might not be a step up from the previous year, the overall user experience could be enhanced by other rumored upgrades.
- Cameras: The front camera is rumored for a significant boost, potentially jumping from 12-megapixels to 24-megapixels. Speculation also includes a potential redesign for the single rear camera setup, possibly featuring a distinctive horizontal, pill-shaped bump across the device’s width.
- www.macrumors.com
- www.techradar.com
- 9to5mac.com
- startupnews.fyi
- www.mactrast.com
These potential upgrades, particularly the larger 120Hz display and enhanced front camera, suggest the iPhone 17 base model could offer compelling new features beyond just a cosmetic change, even if the core processor remains the same as its immediate predecessor.
Anticipated Launch
As is typical for Apple, the full iPhone 17 series, including the base model and potentially an iPhone 17 Plus (or ‘Air’), iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max, is widely expected to be unveiled at a special event in September. This is when official color options and final specifications will be confirmed.
