Apple is reportedly considering a redesign for the iPhone 17 Pro that would place its antennas around the rear camera module. According to leaks, this change could enhance signal quality by reducing interference from the phone’s chassis and avoiding obstruction by users’ hands or protective cases.
Currently, the iPhone 16 Pro series has antennas positioned along the device’s edges. The rumored shift comes as part of a larger overhaul to accommodate a new, wider camera system. The placement near the camera bump may particularly improve mmWave 5G connectivity in crowded areas.
A Move That Makes Technical Sense
The concept aligns with previous design adjustments Apple has made to improve performance. Relocating antennas to a less obstructed area could, in theory, offer better cellular and Wi-Fi reception. In dense urban environments, such positioning might make a noticeable difference in connectivity.
Questions Over Source Reliability
While the technical reasoning appears sound, skepticism surrounds the leak. The claim originates from Majin Bu, a source once respected for accurate Apple leaks but now criticized for relying on repurposed information and speculative guesses. Another well-known leaker, ShrimpApplePro, has expressed doubts, noting that if such a significant design change had been finalized, evidence would likely have surfaced earlier in the development process.
Looking Ahead
With the iPhone 17 Pro still more than a year from launch, details remain unconfirmed. Apple’s final design decisions may only become clear closer to production. If accurate, however, this antenna relocation could mark a meaningful improvement for users who rely on fast, reliable wireless connections.
For now, the rumor highlights how even small changes in smartphone design can have a significant impact on performance—provided they make it past Apple’s notoriously secretive development process.
