Why Does the iPhone 17 Air Render Resemble a Google Pixel?

People on the Chinese social media platform Weibo have once again captured everyone’s attention, this time with leaked images of CAD renders for the iPhone 17 lineup. These images are creating excitement about what Apple will unveil next, especially for fans like myself. However, based on my readings on Reddit and comments on social media, not everyone seems to share my enthusiasm. Yet, as I keep checking back, the numbers of comments and reactions are definitely increasing. Many are beginning to pose the same question: Is Apple really planning to adopt a back design similar to Google’s Pixel 9?

This idea seems puzzling. Apple had already found a way to pack two cameras into its iPhone 16e model. While that model is viewed as a more budget-friendly option and not necessarily representative of the flagship devices, it makes me wonder if the new designs are in line with what we expect from Apple. When comparing the rumored backside of the iPhone 17 Air to the current models, it feels hard to believe that Apple would approve such a design. It’s more likely that the leaked renders might just show how a case would fit around the phone.

Additionally, these renders point to variations in materials used for the other three models in the iPhone 17 lineup. It suggests a combination of aluminum and glass for a premium feel. A few tech blogs, particularly those focusing on Apple news, have labeled this rumor as “possible.” This speculation originated from the same source on social media, Majin Bu, and it gained traction when another render of the iPhone 17 Air with a similar back design was shared online recently. Other leakers from Weibo, like Ice Universe and Fixed Focus Digital, have also shared similar insights, which has helped the rumor gain credibility.

Despite this, I remain doubtful about the shift. The iPhone and Google’s Pixel are aimed at different audiences, even if the Pixel phones have been mimicking the iPhone’s aesthetics in recent releases. The design of the camera setup on the back of the Pixel—specifically the pill-shaped triple-camera module—is distinctly geared toward Android users. It has a fun, somewhat chunky appearance, which is different from Apple’s traditional design language that features a seamless integration of camera elements into the back of the phone.

If the iPhone 17 Air ends up resembling the Google Pixel, it may hint at larger changes coming to Apple’s line, especially in light of recent discussions about the iPhone folding design, which has been gaining attention. Bloomberg recently published insights about this in their “Power On” newsletter, which has a strong reputation for accurate reporting on Apple’s plans. As we wait to see how this rumor develops, I’m curious to check back in a month or two to get a clearer picture of what the iPhone 17 might really look like. Overall, the excitement surrounding these leaks reflects people’s genuine interest in the direction Apple is heading with its iconic smartphone series.