Apple is gearing up for its highly anticipated ‘Awe Dropping’ launch event on September 9, where the company is expected to unveil its next-generation iPhone lineup — the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and the flagship iPhone 17 Pro Max. Ahead of the official debut, a leaked hands-on video has surfaced, claiming to showcase the redesigned camera module of the iPhone 17 Pro Max. Adding to the excitement, industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has shared fresh insights into Apple’s foldable device roadmap, revealing potential launch windows for the first foldable iPhone and iPad.

iPhone 17 Pro Max: Redesigned Camera Module in Focus

A video leak originating from Weibo and shared by reliable tipster Ice Universe suggests that the iPhone 17 Pro Max could feature a significantly revamped rear camera design. Unlike the square-shaped camera island on the iPhone 16 Pro Max, the leaked model shows a raised, rectangular camera housing. While it’s unclear if the footage shows a functional unit or an early dummy model, it strongly hints at Apple’s move towards a bold redesign.

The leak further suggests that the iPhone 17 Pro Max may introduce an advanced telephoto lens with up to 8x optical zoom, pushing smartphone photography closer to professional-grade performance.

Expected Features and Upgrades

Beyond the redesigned camera, the iPhone 17 Pro Max is tipped to come with several key enhancements:

New Camera Control Button for better photo and video handling

A19 Pro chipset with next-generation processing power

12GB RAM for smoother multitasking and performance

Vapour cooling system to handle heat during intensive usage

Wireless reverse charging support, enabling the iPhone to power accessories like AirPods or Apple Watch

These improvements could position the iPhone 17 Pro Max as one of Apple’s most feature-rich smartphones to date.

Apple’s Foldable Future: iPhone in 2026, iPad in 2028

While the iPhone 17 series dominates headlines, Apple’s long-rumored foldable devices are also gaining traction. According to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple is preparing to launch its first foldable iPhone in 2026, followed by a foldable iPad in 2028.

Both devices are expected to use ultra-thin cover glass, developed in collaboration with Corning and GIS (General Interface Solutions). This design choice aims to enhance durability while keeping the foldable displays lightweight and flexible.

Kuo also forecasts ambitious sales figures:

8–10 million foldable iPhone units projected for 2026

Up to 25 million units in 2027, if adoption accelerates

Foldable iPad to see more limited success due to its significantly higher pricing

Conclusion

The iPhone 17 Pro Max leak has already set the stage for Apple’s September 9 event, hinting at a major camera redesign and powerful hardware upgrades. With the promise of 8x optical zoom, improved cooling, and wireless reverse charging, Apple is clearly pushing boundaries in its Pro Max series. Meanwhile, the foldable iPhone in 2026 and foldable iPad in 2028 could mark Apple’s entry into a new era of flexible displays, though their premium pricing may limit adoption.

As excitement builds, all eyes are on Apple’s upcoming ‘Awe Dropping’ event, where the future of the iPhone — and potentially Apple’s foldable journey — will become clearer.