Apple Removes Night Mode Portraits from iPhone 17 Pro
Apple has quietly removed the ability to take Portrait Mode photos using Night Mode on the iPhone 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max, leaving users puzzled and frustrated.
What the Feature Did
The feature, introduced with the iPhone 12 Pro, let users capture portraits with blurred backgrounds in low‑light situations. It combined the depth‑data processing of Portrait Mode with the low‑light sensitivity of Night Mode, producing striking photos in concerts, dimly lit restaurants, and other challenging environments.
How It Was Removed
On the iPhone 17 Pro, the Night Mode icon disappears when Portrait Mode is activated, and the phone no longer saves the depth data required for the blurred background effect. Apple confirmed the removal in a support document, stating that the change is intentional—not a bug. Tests show older iPhone models still retain the feature, but the new 17 Pro Max does not.
Impact on Users
For many, Night Mode Portraits were essential for capturing high‑quality photos in low light. With the feature gone, users must now choose between a bright, well‑exposed photo (Night Mode) or a portrait with a blurred background (Portrait Mode). This forces a compromise that many found unnecessary, especially for those who upgraded specifically for the camera’s capabilities.
Why Might Apple Have Done This?
Apple has not provided an official explanation. The most common speculation points to a possible quality trade‑off—perhaps the combined processing of Night Mode and Portrait depth data did not meet Apple’s standards on the new sensor architecture. The lack of communication has amplified user frustration.
What’s Next?
Apple has not indicated whether it will restore Night Mode Portraits. However, the company has reversed similar decisions in the past after strong user feedback. Until then, iPhone 17 Pro owners will need to adapt their low‑light photography habits, possibly relying on third‑party apps or post‑processing to achieve the desired depth effect.
