### Rumor Replay: Latest Apple Product Speculations
This is **Rumor Replay**, a weekly feature at *9to5Mac* providing a brief summary of the latest speculations regarding Apple products, along with insights and commentary. Today: upgrades to the iPhone 17 Pro camera, pricing details, colors, and more. Below are this week’s Apple speculations.
#### iPhone 17 Pro-Exclusive Camera Enhancements
Referencing an unnamed source, *MacRumors* stated that three camera enhancements exclusive to the iPhone 17 Pro are on the way:
1. 8x telephoto zoom
2. Additional Camera Control button at the top of the device
3. New ‘pro camera’ application
Additionally, a prototype iPhone 17 Pro unit observed in the wild may support the Camera Control assertion.
##### My Thoughts
Assessing this is challenging. On one side, it’s tempting to disregard an anonymous informant lacking a proven history of Apple leaks. Yet, their insistence that *MacRumors* omit their employer’s name adds credibility to the leak. While the prototype seen in the wild lacks definitive proof, it does provide a bit more credibility to the claim. I anticipate Apple will heavily focus on features for true “pros” this year, although I’m uncertain if the addition of an 8x telephoto lens or another Camera Control button genuinely qualifies. Overall, I remain quite doubtful of these assertions, but not entirely dismissive.
#### Complete iPhone 17 Color Range in Prototype Models
While discussions about the anticipated iPhone 17 color selection are nothing new, this week we got our first solid glimpses of prototype models showcasing the new hues. Majin Bu released a video displaying the iPhone 17 Pro colors, followed by Sonny Dickson posting an image of the complete iPhone 17 model range featuring nearly all its rumored colors.
##### My Thoughts
Prototype models rarely capture the true appearance of Apple’s final product, but these are the clearest views we’ve had of what to expect. My primary observation is that iPhone 17 Pro models appear poised to feature more ‘fun’ colors compared to other models for the first time in years. The orange and dark blue shades seem particularly vibrant, whereas the base colors for the iPhone 17 and 17 Air appear more subdued.
#### Anticipated Price Hikes for (Most) iPhone 17 Models
This week, an analyst ignited speculation regarding iPhone 17 pricing ahead of Apple’s earnings. He forecasted that the iPhone 17 Pro, Pro Max, and Air will see $50 price hikes compared to last year’s equivalent models. This likely means a price of $949 for the Air. However, the base iPhone 17 is expected to remain at $799.
##### My Thoughts
In recent years, Apple has been very careful with increasing flagship iPhone prices. However, given possible tariff implications and the introduction of an ultra-thin model, it seems probable that this is the year prices will finally rise. Frankly, $50 increases are not as severe as I was anticipating.
#### Apple Card, Likely Backed by Chase
In line with earlier expectations, *The Wall Street Journal* reported this week that Apple and Chase are nearing an agreement for Apple Card. Current Apple Card partner Goldman Sachs has openly shown a desire to exit the business, and Chase has consistently appeared to be the leading candidate for replacement.
##### My Thoughts
This is not at all surprising, but it does suggest we’re getting closer to an agreement being reached. It’s unclear how the change in financial institutions might affect Apple Card users, but hopefully, Apple will maintain the same kind of features and assurances it currently offers.
What are your reflections on this week’s Apple speculations? Share your thoughts in the comments.
