A counterfeit version of Apple’s upcoming iPhone 17 Pro has surfaced online weeks before the official launch, quickly going viral for its uncanny resemblance to the real deal. The device, first spotted by tech tipster Sonny Dickson on X, is not an Apple product at all, it’s a fake version, or probably an Android phone disguised as an iPhone.
The fake model features symmetrical bezels and a noticeable bottom chin, a design choice unlikely for Apple’s flagship. It also appears to use an LCD panel instead of Apple’s premium AMOLED displays. A closer look reveals more giveaways, including the lock screen clock displaying 05:20 instead of Apple’s typical 5:20, a subtle but classic Android trait.
However, the back panel looks quite identical to the other renders seen of the iPhone 17 Pro so far. Apple is looking to shift to a new back module design for its iPhone 17 series, and this mockup seems to be in line with what has leaked so far.
The knockoff runs a custom skin mimicking iOS 18, while the real iPhone 17 Pro is expected to debut with iOS 26 in September 2025. The genuine model will reportedly be powered by Apple’s A19 Pro chip, feature up to 8× optical zoom, 8K video recording, and a 24-megapixel front camera.
Apple is widely expected to unveil the iPhone 17 series at its September event, with sales starting shortly after. Until then, experts advise buyers to be cautious of such imitations circulating online and in some markets.
