iPhone 17 Pro leak teases major camera upgrades with 8x zoom and dual recording

Apple iPhone

The iPhone 17 Pro could introduce Apple’s most advanced camera system yet, if a new leak is to be believed. First reported by MacRumors via an unnamed tipster, the next-gen iPhone Pro models may deliver a leap in optical zoom, new camera software, and dual recording functionality, all aimed at content creators and mobile filmmakers. While unverified, the details hint at a serious shift in Apple’s photography and video focus.

Up to 8x Optical Zoom and New Camera App Incoming

The standout rumour is the inclusion of a telephoto lens with up to 8x optical zoom, up from the 5x lens tipped for the upcoming iPhone 16 Pro. Unlike current zoom solutions, the new lens may allow physical internal movement, enabling smooth, continuous zoom across focal lengths, a feature typically reserved for professional camera gear.

In addition to the lens upgrade, Apple is reportedly developing a dedicated “pro” camera app for stills and video. This new app could take on third-party favourites like Halide and Filmic Pro, offering enhanced manual controls and pro-grade features. There’s no clarity yet on whether this will be exclusive to the iPhone 17 Pro or released more widely. Alternatively, the leak suggests Apple may give its existing Final Cut Camera app a significant overhaul instead.

A new physical Camera Control button placed on the top edge of the device is also on the cards. This would complement the camera button on the side of the iPhone 16, offering faster access to pro features.

Cosmetic Tweaks and Dual Camera Recording

The tipster also hints at a few design tweaks, including a new copper-coloured finish and a repositioned Apple logo centred on the back panel. These changes would align with earlier leaks suggesting a redesigned rear camera layout for the iPhone 17 Pro.

Separately, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has reported that Apple plans to highlight video recording performance in the 2025 iPhone lineup, with a focus on content creators and vloggers. Meanwhile, Front Page Tech’s Jon Prosser has claimed that the iPhone 17 Pro will support dual camera recording using both front and rear sensors at once, a feature aimed squarely at social media creators.