Apple's latest iPhone 17 series, including the Pro, Pro Max, and Air models, has quickly become a source of "inspiration" for other smartphone manufacturers. Despite the clear design cues, several companies have released devices that bear a striking resemblance to Apple's new offerings, pushing the boundaries of imitation.
Key Takeaways
- Several Android phones closely mimic the design language of the iPhone 17 series.
- These clones often adopt similar camera module layouts and color schemes.
- Some cloned devices offer superior specifications in certain areas compared to their Apple counterparts.
- Many of these phones are exclusive to specific markets outside the US.
Honor's Bold Imitations
The Honor Magic 8 Pro Air, released in January 2026, is a prime example, heavily borrowing from the iPhone Air's design, including its "plateau" motif and even an orange color option reminiscent of the iPhone 17 Pro. Notably, the Magic 8 Pro Air boasts a larger battery and more cameras than the iPhone Air, despite its similar appearance. Honor has a history of this, with the earlier Honor 500 also showing strong iPhone Air influences.
Further blurring the lines, the Honor Power 2, a mid-range device, adopts the distinctive triangular triple-camera setup and the vibrant orange color of the iPhone 17 Pro Max. This suggests a deliberate effort to replicate Apple's premium aesthetic in a more affordable package.
Xiaomi and Poco's Identical Naming and Design
Xiaomi's 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max, launched in late 2025, present a unique challenge. While they feature an innovative cover screen inspired by flip phones, their naming scheme is identical to Apple's iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max. Xiaomi even skipped the "16 Pro" model to align its numbering with Apple's, a move described as "desperate" yet resulting in capable devices.
The gaming-focused sub-brand Poco, also under Xiaomi, released the Poco F8 Pro and F8 Ultra in November 2025. These phones feature a raised camera plateau housing three cameras, closely resembling the iPhone 17 Pro, especially in silver. The "Pro" suffix on the F8 model further hints at an intentional association with Apple's high-end offerings. The Poco F8 Ultra attempts differentiation with a Bose speaker and an optional denim finish.
Infinix Note Edge: A Clear Copycat
Infinix, a brand primarily focused on Asian, African, and Middle Eastern markets, has also entered the cloning arena with its Infinix Note Edge. This device is a clear copy of the iPhone Air, complete with a camera plateau and an Android interface that closely mimics iOS 26. While Infinix wisely dropped a bright orange color option, the phone's name itself, "Note Edge," ironically evokes Samsung's past designs more than Apple's. Despite its imitative nature, the Note Edge offers impressive specifications, including a substantial 6,500mAh battery.