Apple Removes Night Mode Portrait Feature on iPhone 17 Pro Models, Sparking User Discontent

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Apple’s newest iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max have quietly dropped a feature that many users appreciated: the ability to use Night mode in Portrait photography. This omission has stirred frustration among iPhone enthusiasts and photographers alike.

iPhone 17 Pro Series No Longer Supports Night Mode Portraits

Nighttime portrait shot with iPhone 12 Pro Max
A nighttime portrait taken with an iPhone 12 Pro Max. | Image credit — Apple

When users switch on Portrait mode on the iPhone 17 Pro or 17 Pro Max, the Night mode feature is automatically disabled. Conversely, attempting to shoot in Night mode first prevents Portrait mode from activating. This contrasts with previous Pro model iPhones, ranging from the iPhone 12 Pro through the iPhone 16 Pro Max, all of which supported Night mode Portrait shots.

Community Reactions: How Significant Is This Change?




Poll results so far:

  • 59.52% believe it’s a serious downgrade
  • 14.29% find it annoying but not a dealbreaker
  • 21.43% barely use Night Portraits
  • 4.76% expect Apple to resolve it in a future update

Total votes: 42

Apple Offers No Explanation, Leaving Users Frustrated

A Rare Step Back for a Pro-Grade Camera

iPhone 17 Pro camera interface
There remains hope Apple may address the issue in an update. | Image credit — PhoneArena

The iPhone 17 Pro series’ removal of Night mode Portraits is a notable regression compared to previous Pro models. It’s an unexpected limitation on a flagship device aimed at photography enthusiasts.

As of now, Apple has not responded to requests for comment or provided any insight into whether this change is permanent or temporary.

Stay tuned for updates as more information becomes available.

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