Overview
- An updated Apple support guide excludes the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max from models that support Night mode within Portrait mode, a feature present on iPhone 12–16 Pro devices.
- Independent tests reported by Macworld and The Mac Observer found that Night mode images on iPhone 17 Pro do not capture depth information, preventing post-shot Portrait conversion.
- Night mode still functions in standard Photo mode, selfies, and time‑lapse on the iPhone 17 Pro, but it is unavailable when Portrait mode is selected in low light.
- The phones retain LiDAR and upgraded camera sensors, yet Apple has not provided a reason for the removal or indicated if a software update will restore the capability.
- Macworld’s comparisons note that Night mode portraits are brighter but noisier and limited to 12MP, whereas non‑Night Portrait photos on iPhone 17 Pro can be 24MP and appear crisper.