There have been a couple of previous reports suggesting that at least one iPhone 17 model will run cooler, thanks to a hi-tech liquid cooling system known as a vapor chamber. This has today been backed by a third one – though it’s uncertain which models will get the new feature.
While Apple chips have grown progressively more powerful each year, they can run hot when performing demanding tasks like running graphic-intensive games, forcing the device to reduce power …
Known as thermal throttling, this is when internal temperature sensors indicate that the chip has hit its maximum operating temperature. To protect it and other components from heat damage, the performance of the chip is throttled back until the temperature falls.
Larger and more powerful devices like the MacBook Pro have fans to dissipate heat, but the iPhone relies on passive cooling via a heatsink – in essence, a solid chunk of metal or graphite designed to absorb heat and transfer it to the outer casing of the phone.
Vapor chamber
A vapor chamber is a more sophisticated heatsink, with a liquid inside. When there’s too much heat in a particular section of the phone, that liquid is vaporized. That vapor travels to the outer walls, where it condenses, reducing the temperature.
It’s the same principle of evaporative cooling used in air coolers, and even applying a wet cloth to someone’s forehead when they are running a fever.
The video below shows how it works in a device like a phone.
iPhone 17 liquid cooling reports
Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo was first to report on plans to include a vapor chamber in the iPhone 17 line-up, last summer saying that it would be exclusive to the iPhone 17 Pro Max.
Among the 2025 new iPhone models, only the iPhone 17 Pro Max will feature […] an upgraded cooling system combining vapor chamber (VC) technology and graphite sheets. Other 2025 new iPhone models will continue to use graphite sheets alone for thermal management.
Earlier this year, Chinese site MyDrivers echoed the idea of a vapor chamber, but suggested it was coming to all iPhone 17 models.
Apple will add heat dissipation devices to the iPhone 17 series, and all models will be equipped with VC [vapor chamber] heat sinks for heat dissipation.
Today Instant Digital, a Chinese leaker who has previously been correct on iPhone rumors, splits the difference – saying that it’s coming to both Pro models.
It is confirmed that 17 Pro/17 Pro Max will use steam cavity [ie. vapor chamber] to dissipate heat
9to5Mac’s Take
Given three sources, and inclusion of the feature in some premium Android phones, the reports do seem likely.
As to which models will get a vapor chamber, it would seem more logical to start with the more powerful models, so my money would be on either both Pro models or the Pro Max only.
Highlighted accessories
Image: Advanced Thermal Solutions
FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.
