When Apple unveiled its latest iPhone 17 lineup on September 9, 2025, the tech giant probably expected the usual mix of excitement and criticism. What they might not have anticipated was an internet revolt over what some are calling 'the ugliest iPhone ever made.'
The iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max were announced at Apple's 'Awe Dropping' event in Cupertino, California.
The new devices promise more powerful chips, bigger batteries, and tougher builds. But it’s the Pro models that have sparked the most heated reactions.
The culprit? A dramatically redesigned rear camera system that Apple calls a 'plateau'—a raised section spanning nearly the entire top third of the phone’s back. The smooth back panel is gone, replaced by a glass insert Apple says improves wireless charging.
The design that divided the internet
Instead of the familiar camera bump tucked into a corner, the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max now feature a camera plateau that spans almost the entire back of the device. This isn’t just aesthetic tinkering—Apple has switched from titanium back to aluminum for the Pro models, with the unibody case coming in Deep Blue, Silver, and a very bright Cosmic Orange.
'This might be the ugliest iPhone Pro ever'
The reaction was swift and brutal. Social media platform X quickly flooded with memes and critical reactions, with many users expressing disappointment with the larger rear camera plateau and the Cosmic Orange color option, calling the look 'ugly' and 'un-Apple-like'.
On Reddit, these designs have been described as a 'monstrosity', 'so bad', and 'so ugly', while some users complained 'Am I the only one who thinks the new iPhone 17 Pro Max looks ugly? They ruined the design'. Others were even harsher: one fan branded the orange version a 'crime against design', while another claimed Steve Jobs 'would have fired everyone' if such a design had been pitched in his era. Some critics compared it to a Pixel or even a cheap knock-off. Still, a handful of fans praised the bold colors, with one insisting: 'Cosmic orange is the hottest phone colour ever made.'
Why Apple made such dramatic changes
Before dismissing this as pointless design change, it's worth understanding Apple's reasoning. The aluminum unibody has been chosen for its lightness, thermal efficiency, and rigidity, with the new A19 Pro chip and huge battery needing good thermal dissipation. The larger frame also makes room for Apple’s biggest-ever iPhone battery, with the Pro Max rated for up to 37 hours of continuous video playback.
Technical reasons behind the new design
Vapor chamber cooling system for better heat management
37 per cent larger battery capacity in Pro Max models
Room for three 48MP cameras including new telephoto with 8x optical zoom
Aluminum provides better thermal performance than titanium
Ceramic Shield 2 offers 3x better scratch resistance
The 48-megapixel Fusion Telephoto lens is new and an upgrade over the 12-megapixel lens in previous models, with Apple saying the telephoto sensor is 56 percent larger for improved performance in poor lighting. It supports 8x zoom equivalent to a 200mm focal length, though 8x zoom images are limited to 12 megapixels.
The iPhone Air: Apple's thinnest phone ever
Alongside the controversial Pro models, Apple debuted the all-new iPhone Air, the thinnest iPhone ever made at just 5.6mm thick. It's called simply the iPhone Air (not iPhone 17 Air) and represents a brand new category of iPhone.
The Air starts at $999 USD, positioning it between the regular iPhone 17 ($799 USD) and the Pro models. This device has a profile thickness of 5.6 mm, making it about 0.08 inches thinner than current iPhones, with a 6.6-inch screen and 120 Hz ProMotion display. The Air comes in Space Black, Cloud White, Light Gold, and Sky Blue—colors borrowed from the M4 MacBook Air.
What this means for Australian buyers
For Australian consumers, the new iPhone 17 lineup launched in stores on Friday, September 19, following pre-orders that began on September 12. While official Australian pricing wasn't detailed in search results, historically Apple prices tend to mirror US pricing with currency conversion.
Key considerations for older users
- All iPhone 17 models now have 120Hz ProMotion displays (previously Pro-only feature)
- Larger screens across the range may benefit those with vision concerns
- The controversial design affects wireless charging compatibility with some car chargers
- Camera improvements offer better low-light photography
- Battery life significantly improved, especially on Pro Max model
Industry experts weigh in
Industry analysts suggest Apple's rollout of the iPhone Air—thin, lightweight, yet durable—may be laying the groundwork for a foldable phone next year, which could drive a stronger replacement cycle.
Some tech reviewers have come around to the new design. One noted: 'I don't think that it's exactly 'ugly' anymore. I like that Apple has done it to achieve real benefits, not just for the sake of being different'.
However, others remain unconvinced. As one reviewer put it: 'I still don't like the look of the iPhone 17 Pro or the Pro Max. The extended camera bar is ugly. But at least the oversized plateau does offer a practical purpose'.
Design controversies aren't new for Apple
It's worth remembering that Apple design changes often face initial resistance. People likely got used to changes over time—just like they got used to the notch when introduced on iPhone X in 2017, and most people will probably be used to this new iPhone look within a year.
The removal of the home button, the introduction of Face ID, and even the original iPhone's lack of a physical keyboard all faced criticism before becoming accepted standards.
The practical reality for most users
As one pragmatic observer noted: 'Should I purchase an iPhone 17 Pro, it's getting a case and spending most of its life in my pocket—how it looks doesn't matter all that much. But it sure seems that the internet doesn't seem to feel the same way'.
For many users, especially those who use protective cases, the design controversy may be much ado about nothing. The real benefits—improved battery life, better cameras, and enhanced performance—will likely matter more in day-to-day use than the aesthetic changes.
Thinking of upgrading?
If you're keen to upgrade your phone, here are the cheaper options highlighted in the WhistleOut Awards—plus our iPhone 17 widgets so you can compare plans and deals in seconds.
Looking ahead
Despite the design backlash, Apple's dedicated fan base is expected to drive strong pre-orders, especially with the Pro lineup's camera and performance improvements. The true test will be whether consumers vote with their wallets, regardless of the online outcry.
For now, the iPhone 17 represents Apple's boldest design departure in years—whether you see that as courageous innovation or a costly mistake may depend on which side of the design debate you fall on.
What do you think about Apple's dramatic new iPhone 17 design? Will you be upgrading despite the controversy, or are you put off by the changes? Share your thoughts in the comments below—we'd love to hear whether the design matters as much to you as the improved features and performance.
Original Article
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-15083649/Apple-iPhone-17-ugly-design.html
Apple debuts iPhone 17—Apple
Cited text: September 9, 2025 · PRESS RELEASE · Apple debuts iPhone 17 · iPhone 17 features the innovative Center Stage front camera, a bigger and brighter new di...
Excerpt: The iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max were announced at Apple's 'Awe Dropping' event
https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2025/09/apple-debuts-iphone-17/
iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro: Release Date and Pre-Orders—MacRumors
Cited text: Apple held its annual iPhone event on Tuesday, September 9, to unveil the iPhone 17, ultra-thin iPhone Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max.
Excerpt: The iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max were announced at Apple's 'Awe Dropping' event
https://www.macrumors.com/2025/09/10/iphone-17-pro-release-date-preorders/
Everything Apple just announced: iPhone 17 Air, AirPods Pro 3, Apple Watch Series 11 and more
Cited text: Apple CEO Tim Cook and his team unveiled the iPhone 17 line of devices, Apple Watches, new AirPods Pro and the release date for iOS 26.
Excerpt: The iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max were announced at Apple's 'Awe Dropping' event
https://www.cnbc.com/2025/09/09/live-updates-apple-event-iphone17-airpods-ios26.html
The Camera Plateau: What's New With the iPhone 17 Pro Cameras—MacRumors
Cited text: With the iPhone 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max, Apple introduced a new design for the rear of the device. Instead of a camera bump, we now have a camera platea...
Excerpt: Instead of the familiar camera bump tucked into a corner, the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max now feature a camera plateau that spans almost the entire back of the device
https://www.macrumors.com/2025/09/10/iphone-17-pro-camera/
New iPhone Air, 17, 17 Pro & Max release date, specs, features & more | Macworld
Cited text: The iPhone 16 Pro was titanium, but for 2025, Apple has returned to aluminium because it delivers better thermal performance. The unibody case is brus...
Excerpt: Apple has switched from titanium back to aluminum for the Pro models, with the unibody case coming in Deep Blue, Silver, and a very bright Cosmic Orange
https://www.macworld.com/article/2393967/iphone-17-release-date-specs-features-rumors.html
iPhone 17 Pro, Pro Max Launch: Internet Calls New Design ‘Ugly’ Despite Big Upgrades—Oneindia News
Cited text: ... Social media platform X quickly flooded with memes and critical reactions after Apple showcased the new design. Many users expressed disappointmen...
Excerpt: Social media platform X quickly flooded with memes and critical reactions, with many users expressing disappointment with the larger rear camera plateau and the Cosmic Orange color option, calling the look 'ugly' and 'un-Apple-like'
https://www.oneindia.com/internatio...design-ugly-despite-big-upgrades-7856093.html
'Those are so ugly': new iPhone 17 dummy unit photos show all four models side by side—and the internet isn’t impressed | TechRadar
Cited text: On Reddit, these designs have been described as a “monstrosity”, “so bad”, and “so ugly”, among other things.
Excerpt: On Reddit, these designs have been described as a 'monstrosity', 'so bad', and 'so ugly'
https://www.techradar.com/phones/ip...-side-by-side-and-the-internet-isnt-impressed
Gen Z has spoken: Social media reacts to Apple’s iPhone 17 launch | India News | Onmanorama
Cited text: 'Am I the only one who thinks the new iPhone 17 Pro Max looks ugly? They ruined the design,' complained a.iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Air, App...
Excerpt: some users complained 'Am I the only one who thinks the new iPhone 17 Pro Max looks ugly?
https://www.onmanorama.com/news/india/2025/09/10/gen-z-reacts-iphone-17.html
Ugly or genius? iPhone 17's jarring design explained—PhoneArena
Cited text: · First off, the aluminum unibody, according to Apple, has been chosen as a design element for its lightness, thermal efficiency, and rigidity. The ne...
Excerpt: The aluminum unibody has been chosen for its lightness, thermal efficiency, and rigidity, with the new A19 Pro chip and huge battery needing good thermal dissipation
https://www.phonearena.com/news/iphone-17-jarring-design-explained_id173934
The Camera Plateau: What's New With the iPhone 17 Pro Cameras—MacRumors
Cited text: The 48-megapixel Fusion Telephoto lens is new, and an upgrade over the 12-megapixel Telephoto lens in the iPhone 16 Pro models.
Excerpt: The 48-megapixel Fusion Telephoto lens is new and an upgrade over the 12-megapixel lens in previous models, with Apple saying the telephoto sensor is 56 percent larger for improved performance in poor lighting
https://www.macrumors.com/2025/09/10/iphone-17-pro-camera/
The Camera Plateau: What's New With the iPhone 17 Pro Cameras—MacRumors
Cited text: Apple says that the Telephoto sensor is 56 percent larger, allowing for improved performance in poor lighting conditions.
Excerpt: The 48-megapixel Fusion Telephoto lens is new and an upgrade over the 12-megapixel lens in previous models, with Apple saying the telephoto sensor is 56 percent larger for improved performance in poor lighting
https://www.macrumors.com/2025/09/10/iphone-17-pro-camera/
The Camera Plateau: What's New With the iPhone 17 Pro Cameras—MacRumors
Cited text: It also supports 8x zoom, or a 200mm focal length equivalent. 8x zoom images are limited to 12 megapixels.
Excerpt: It supports 8x zoom equivalent to a 200mm focal length, though 8x zoom images are limited to 12 megapixels
https://www.macrumors.com/2025/09/10/iphone-17-pro-camera/
Introducing iPhone Air, a powerful new iPhone with a breakthrough design—Apple
Cited text: CUPERTINO, CALIFORNIA Apple today debuted the all-new iPhone Air, the thinnest iPhone ever made, with pro performance.
Excerpt: Apple debuted the all-new iPhone Air, the thinnest iPhone ever made at just 5.6mm thick
https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2025...werful-new-iphone-with-a-breakthrough-design/
Introducing iPhone Air, a powerful new iPhone with a breakthrough design—Apple
Cited text: To learn more, visit apple.com/esim.
Excerpt: Apple debuted the all-new iPhone Air, the thinnest iPhone ever made at just 5.6mm thick
https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2025...werful-new-iphone-with-a-breakthrough-design/
New iPhone Air, 17, 17 Pro & Max release date, specs, features & more | Macworld
Cited text: Apple’s newest phones are called the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, and the iPhone Air (it’s not the iPhone 17 Air). The Air is a brand ...
Excerpt: It's called simply the iPhone Air (not iPhone 17 Air) and represents a brand new category of iPhone
https://www.macworld.com/article/2393967/iphone-17-release-date-specs-features-rumors.html
iPhone 17, iPhone Air, AirPods Pro 3, and everything else announced at Apple's hardware event | TechCrunch
Cited text: The biggest announcement at the event was the debut of Apple’s slimmest phone ever, the iPhone Air, which replaces the iPhone Plus. This device has a ...
Excerpt: This device has a profile thickness of 5.6 mm, making it about 0.08 inches thinner than current iPhones, with a 6.6-inch screen and 120 Hz ProMotion display
https://techcrunch.com/2025/09/14/i...hing-else-announced-at-apples-hardware-event/
iPhone 17 Release Date, Pre-Orders, and What to Expect—MacRumors
Cited text: Apple will launch its new iPhone 17 lineup and ultra-thin iPhone Air in stores on Friday, September 19, and the company has already shown off the new ...
Excerpt: the new iPhone 17 lineup launched in stores on Friday, September 19, following pre-orders that began on September 12
https://www.macrumors.com/2025/08/28/iphone-17-pre-order-and-release-dates/
Apple iPhone 17 Event: Reactions & Future Tech Hints
Cited text: Apple's hotly-rumored development of a foldable iPhone may have played a role in the company's strategy of a more low-key product launch this year, no...
Excerpt: Industry analysts suggest Apple's rollout of the iPhone Air—thin, lightweight, yet durable—may be laying the groundwork for a foldable phone next year, which could drive a stronger replacement cycle
https://www.designnews.com/electron...o-wow-analysts-see-groundwork-for-future-tech
Ugly or genius? iPhone 17's jarring design explained—PhoneArena
Cited text: · All in all, I think the design of these iPhones is unusual, but I don't think that it's exactly 'ugly' anymore. I like that Apple has done it to ach...
Excerpt: One noted: 'I don't think that it's exactly 'ugly' anymore. I like that Apple has done it to achieve real benefits, not just for the sake of being different'
https://www.phonearena.com/news/iphone-17-jarring-design-explained_id173934
I still don't like the iPhone 17 Pro's design, but at least it should improve performance | Tom's Guide
Cited text: I still don't like the look of the iPhone 17 Pro or the Pro Max. The extended camera bar is ugly. But at least the oversized plateau does offer a prac...
Excerpt: As one reviewer put it: 'I still don't like the look of the iPhone 17 Pro or the Pro Max.
https://www.tomsguide.com/phones/ip...ly-but-theres-method-to-apples-design-madness
'Those are so ugly': new iPhone 17 dummy unit photos show all four models side by side—and the internet isn’t impressed | TechRadar
Cited text: And for another, people will likely get used to the changes over time—just like they got used to the notch when that was introduced on the iPhone X ...
Excerpt: People likely got used to changes over time—just like they got used to the notch when introduced on iPhone X in 2017, and most people will probably be used to this new iPhone look within a year
https://www.techradar.com/phones/ip...-side-by-side-and-the-internet-isnt-impressed
The internet thinks the iPhone 17 Pro design is ugly
Cited text: Should I purchase an iPhone 17 Pro, it's getting a case and spending most of its life in my pocket — how it looks doesn't matter all that much. But it...
Excerpt: As one pragmatic observer noted: 'Should I purchase an iPhone 17 Pro, it's getting a case and spending most of its life in my pocket—how it looks doesn't matter all that much.
https://www.aol.com/articles/internet-thinks-iphone-17-pro-184344898.html
iPhone 17 Pro, Pro Max Launch: Internet Calls New Design ‘Ugly’ Despite Big Upgrades—Oneindia News
Cited text: Still, Apple's dedicated fan base is expected to drive strong pre-orders, especially with the Pro lineup's camera and performance improvements.
Excerpt: Despite the design backlash, Apple's dedicated fan base is expected to drive strong pre-orders, especially with the Pro lineup's camera and performance improvements
https://www.oneindia.com/internatio...design-ugly-despite-big-upgrades-7856093.html
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