The anticipation surrounding the iPhone 17 series has sparked a surge of leaks and rumors, particularly regarding its camera design and placement. Among the most cited sources is the tipster known as Majin Bu, who has been prolific in sharing images and details about the upcoming iPhones. But how reliable are these leaks, especially those concerning the iPhone 17’s camera changes?
Majin Bu’s Leak History and Reputation
Majin Bu is a well-known figure in the Apple leak community, frequently posting images and information sourced from Chinese social media and other channels. His track record is mixed; while some of his leaks have proven accurate or at least plausible, others have been met with skepticism due to a lack of corroboration or seeming inconsistencies[1][2][3]. This mixed reliability means that while his leaks should not be dismissed outright, they warrant cautious consideration.
Specific Camera-Related Leaks by Majin Bu
iPhone 17 Air Front Camera Placement
One notable leak from Majin Bu involves the iPhone 17 Air’s front-facing camera, which is rumored to shift from the right side of the Dynamic Island (as seen in iPhone 16 models) to the left side. This subtle but unusual change was revealed through images of screen protectors allegedly designed for the iPhone 17 lineup[1][2]. While the change might seem minor, it could indicate a redesign aimed at slimming the device or accommodating new internal components. However, claims that this shift will provide “new angles and a different interaction” are regarded as questionable, suggesting practical design considerations are more likely the motivation[2].
Rear Camera Design and Modules
Majin Bu has also shared images of dummy units showing a significant redesign of the iPhone 17 Pro’s rear camera system. The leaks depict a large camera bar running across the top of the back, with individual circular camera rings and repositioned flash and LiDAR sensors. This design marks a departure from previous iPhone camera layouts and has drawn comparisons to Google Pixel phones. The iPhone 17 Air, meanwhile, is shown with a thinner, more minimal camera bar and a single rear camera, aligning with rumors that it targets a lower price tier.
Visual and Material Details
The leaked dummy units and images from Majin Bu offer convincing visuals, including realistic materials and finishes that closely match earlier rumors. For example, the rumored black color variant of the iPhone 17 Pro resembles the current titanium black but with a deeper tone[3]. The size and prominence of the camera bar, especially on Pro models, have been highlighted as potentially contentious design elements, indicating that if these leaks are accurate, the camera hardware improvements come with trade-offs in aesthetics and ergonomics.
Expert and Industry Perspectives
While Majin Bu’s leaks provide some of the best early glimpses of the iPhone 17 series, experts advise caution. The mixed accuracy of past leaks means that some details may change before the official launch. Industry analysts note that Apple typically finalizes designs close to launch, and dummy units or screen protector images can be based on early or incomplete information[1][3]. Moreover, some leaked features, such as the front camera repositioning on the iPhone 17 Air, may be driven by internal design constraints rather than user experience improvements[2].
Conclusion: Balanced Skepticism Is Warranted
Leaks from Majin Bu offer valuable insights into the possible camera changes in the iPhone 17 lineup, including notable shifts in front camera placement and a radical redesign of the rear camera modules. However, given the tipster’s mixed track record and the nature of leak culture, these details should be viewed as informed speculation rather than confirmed facts. The true reliability of these leaks will only be confirmed upon Apple’s official announcement, expected in September 2025. Until then, enthusiasts and consumers should maintain a balanced skepticism, appreciating the leaks as part of the evolving narrative around the next iPhone generation.
[1] https://www.techradar.com/phones/iphone/this-meh-iphone-17-air-camera-tip-might-give-us-more-insight-than-meets-the-eye
[2] https://www.phonearena.com/news/leaked-image-hints-at-an-odd-twist-for-iphone-17-air_id171746
[3] https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidphelan/2025/06/28/apple-iphone-17-pro-the-best-view-yet-of-new-design-just-leaked-iphone-17-pro-max/