New iPhone 17 Pro Camera Design Criticized for Ruining Aesthetics

Fundacion Rapala – Apple officially launched the iPhone 17 Series at the “Awe Dropping” event in Cupertino on September 9, 2025. The lineup includes the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Air, and the two flagship models, iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max. While the new series offers several upgrades, one design change has attracted sharp criticism—the new camera module.

Apple Introduces the “Plateau” Camera Module

For the first time since the iPhone 11 Series, Apple changed the shape of its camera housing. The iPhone 17 Pro now features a large rectangular design called the “plateau.” It takes up nearly a third of the phone’s upper back. Apple hoped the new design would look fresh, but many users say it feels awkward and spoils the iPhone’s elegant image.

Social Media Reactions Highlight Mixed Opinions

Soon after the launch, social media exploded with comments. Many users called the iPhone 17 Pro “ugly.” User @adtya_uprti wrote that Apple changed the design only to look different, but instead “ruined the iPhone’s aesthetics.” Another user, Manoj Koendreddygari, disliked both the color choices and the default wallpaper, calling them Apple’s worst to date.

Concerns About Material Choices

Criticism also targeted Apple’s decision to switch from titanium to aluminum. User CrusherFella argued that this change made the phone look “horrible.” According to many, aluminum weakens the premium image Apple carefully built with previous models.

Indonesian Netizens Add Their Voices

Indonesian Apple fans also joined the discussion online. Some asked bluntly, “Who designed this?” Others said the back design felt strange and labeled the phone a “flop” compared to earlier iPhones. These reactions show how strongly users value Apple’s design identity.

Supporters Argue People Need Time

Not all comments were negative. Some fans defended the change, suggesting people need time to adjust. One user compared the situation to the “boba camera” design from older iPhone models. At first, people mocked it, but over time it became accepted. Supporters believe the same could happen with the “plateau” module.

Why Bold Design Shifts Spark Debate

Major design changes often create controversy. For many, the iPhone’s appearance is more than just style—it represents brand identity. Because of that, radical changes can feel uncomfortable. However, Apple’s history shows that bold choices often become the standard later.

The Future of the iPhone 17 Pro’s Design

The iPhone 17 Pro’s design has drawn criticism, but Apple’s confidence suggests the company sees long-term value in the change. What some users view as unattractive today may become widely accepted tomorrow. As with past models, the design might eventually shift from “ugly” to iconic.