There are new hints of a possible technical innovation for the iPhone 17 Pro: Apple could be using a vapor chamber cooling system for the first time. This rumor has been circulating for some time, and now a first photo has emerged that further fuels the rumors. This would indicate that Apple would be using a cooling system that has long been standard on high-end Android devices.
The image was published by a well-known leaker who goes by the name Majin Bu. He regularly shares information about Apple products, some of which has proven to be accurate, others inaccurate. This time, he shows a photo of an alleged copper heat plate. This is said to be a central component of the new cooling system in the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max. Of course, this hasn't been officially confirmed, but the topic is attracting attention in the tech community – especially because it concerns a feature that would directly impact the iPhone's performance and everyday usability.
Vapor chamber cooling: What is it?
A vapor chamber is essentially a flat, closed metal chamber containing a small amount of liquid. When the device heats up – for example, during gaming or other computing-intensive applications – the liquid evaporates. The vapor disperses within the chamber, releasing heat. In cooler areas, it condenses and returns to its liquid form. The whole thing is a closed circuit that helps dissipate heat quickly and efficiently. This would be a clear improvement over the graphite foils currently used in iPhones. While these foils are space-saving and lightweight, they are not as powerful as a vapor chamber. Android models like the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra have been using this technology for some time to better control heat buildup during heavy use.
What would that mean for the iPhone 17 Pro?
If Apple does indeed opt for the new cooling technology, the iPhone 17 Pro could run significantly more stably under sustained load. This would be particularly beneficial for gaming, 4K video recording, or longer computing tasks such as video editing or using AR apps. The new A19 Pro chip, expected in the next-generation iPhone Pro models, should also be able to deliver better performance when combined with the vapor chamber.
- In short: Less heat means fewer performance drops and an overall more efficient system. This would be a real benefit, especially for users who put a lot of strain on their iPhone.
How reliable is the leak?
Majin Bu has had mixed success with previous leaks. For example, he was correct in his prediction that iPadOS 26 would feature a menu bar similar to the one on the Mac. On the other hand, he was wrong in his claim that iOS 26 would bring Stage Manager to iPhones with USB-C – this never happened. The image of the heat plate he has now published cannot currently be independently verified. It may actually be a component from the iPhone 17 series – or it may not. The only thing that is clear is that if the component is real, then some changes will be made inside the iPhone 17 Pro.
When will we find out more?
Apple is expected to unveil the new iPhones in September. There will likely be more leaks and hints until then. Whether the vapor chamber rumor is confirmed remains to be seen. From a technical perspective, it would certainly be a sensible step toward bringing cooling up to the level of current high-end smartphones.
iPhone 17 Pro with Vapor Chamber – more than just a rumor?
The iPhone 17 Pro could be the first iPhone to use a vapor chamber cooling system. A leak shows a possible component that would support this. The technology isn't new, but it would be a first for Apple. It promises better heat dissipation, more stable performance, and more efficient utilization of processor power. We won't know whether this will actually happen until fall. Until then, the topic remains exciting—especially for anyone considering buying the iPhone 17 Pro. (Image: MajinBu)
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