With the iPhone 17 Pro expected to launch in around six months, rumours are swirling about which features the next flagship might offer. While much of the excitement centres on a potential redesign, the most intriguing leaks suggest significant camera improvements—including the possibility of 8K video recording.

According to recent reports from reliable sources, the next Pro iPhones may support 8K video capability. This feature isn’t far-fetched, as several Android smartphones—such as the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra and Xiaomi 15 Ultra—already offer 8K recording at 30 frames per second. In fact, 8K video first appeared on smartphones as early as 2020.

These rumours are consistent with other predictions about the Apple iPhone 17 Pro, including a new 48MP sensor for its telephoto camera. If accurate, all three cameras would have the resolution required to capture 8K video (typically 7,680 x 4,320 pixels).

However, even if the iPhone 17 Pro introduces 8K video recording, it’s likely to remain a niche feature. While ultra-high resolution can be useful for cropping footage during editing, other factors—such as bit rate and lens quality—will continue to impact overall video quality. For most users, shooting in 4K will probably remain the more practical choice.

While iPhones are already known for their impressive video capabilities, there are several new features that could prove even more useful than 8K recording on the iPhone 17 Pro.

iPhone 17 Pro: 3 Video Features We’d Love to See

1. Open Gate Video Recording

Capture every moment with open gate video recording. This advanced feature allows you to record video using the full sensor area, giving you greater flexibility and detail in your footage. Whether you're filming for social media, creating short films, or working on professional projects, open gate video recording helps you produce high-quality, immersive videos with stunning clarity and vibrant colours.

Traditionally, iPhones have featured camera sensors with a 4:3 aspect ratio, but they often record video using a 16:9 crop. 'Open gate' video recording allows you to use the full width and height of the sensor, so you capture every detail without losing any part of the image. This feature would be a valuable addition to the iPhone 17 Pro.

With open gate recording, you could easily choose different aspect ratios—such as shooting square videos—while still making use of the entire sensor. Although this process requires more processing power, future chips like the A19 Pro should manage it smoothly. Even some more affordable cameras, such as the Fujifilm X-M5, now offer open gate recording for content creators who want flexibility for social media.

At present, some iPhones support open gate recording through third-party apps, but it would be fantastic to see this feature built into the default camera app or available in Final Cut Camera without requiring a subscription.

2. A Larger Telephoto Sensor

A larger telephoto sensor allows your smartphone camera to capture more light and detail, particularly when zooming in. This enhancement results in clearer, sharper photos even from a distance, as well as improved performance in low-light situations. With a larger sensor, your images will display richer colours and greater depth, helping your mobile photography to truly stand out.

Most people who film video on their iPhone stick with the main 24mm lens, as it's the only one that consistently delivers high-quality results for more than just casual family or pet footage. This is largely thanks to its relatively large 1/1.29-inch sensor. Looking ahead, there's hope that the 17 Pro will feature a much larger sensor for its telephoto lens, which currently uses a smaller and older 1/3-inch sensor.

Recent rumours suggest the 17 Pro's telephoto camera could jump to a 48MP resolution, though details about the sensor size remain unclear. It doesn't necessarily need to match the main camera, but for comparison, the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra's 50MP telephoto lens uses a 1/2.52-inch sensor. A sensor in that range would significantly improve both video and photo quality, making the telephoto lens a much more versatile option—even as a secondary camera for cutaway shots.

3. Nano-Texture Screen Option

Enhance your viewing experience with the nano-texture screen option. This advanced display technology reduces glare and reflections, making it easier to see content clearly—even in bright environments. Enjoy vibrant colours, sharp details, and comfortable viewing for work or entertainment.

While this isn't strictly a video feature, it would be a valuable addition for anyone who shoots video. Apple now offers a nano-texture screen option on devices such as the iPad Pro M4 and MacBook Pro M4 to help minimise glare and reflections. So, why not bring a similar feature to the Pro iPhone models?

Since the iPhone’s screen is the only viewfinder available—and video is often recorded outdoors in bright sunlight—a nano-texture display could greatly improve both filming and playback experiences. While matte screen protectors offer some help, Apple has the potential to introduce advanced display technology that goes even further.

Recent patents and rumours suggest Apple is developing screens with an “ambient light rejection element”. This technology could be ready in time for future iPhones, such as the iPhone 17 Pro. For video creators, this would be a much more practical and impactful upgrade than simply increasing screen resolution to 8K.