The upcoming iPhone 17 Pro is rumored to feature a major antenna redesign inspired by the Apple Watch Ultra. 
Instead of hiding antennas along the frame edges, Apple is reportedly moving them around the raised camera housing – a clever shift aimed at improving connectivity and reducing signal drops in tough conditions.
On current and older iPhones, hand placement or nearby metal parts can partially block the antennas, weakening reception. By relocating them to the camera bar, Apple can minimize interference from a user’s grip and create a more consistent radiation pattern, reducing so-called “shadow zones” along vertical and diagonal lines. This change could prove especially valuable in dense urban areas or indoors where coverage is limited.
The leak comes from tipster Majin Bu, known for accurate past predictions, although it’s still unconfirmed until Apple unveils the iPhone 17 series next month. It’s unclear whether this upgrade will be exclusive to the Pro models or extended to the entire lineup.
Early impressions suggest the iPhone 17 Pro will be a substantial upgrade over its predecessor, not only in connectivity but also in visual design. However, some buyers may wait for the 2026 iPhone, marking the 20th anniversary of the original model, which is rumored to debut as a bezel-less, all-screen device resembling a single slab of glass.
Whether or not Apple delivers on these antenna improvements, the iPhone 17 Pro could become one of the most reliable smartphones for staying connected in even the most challenging environments.