Apple’s new iPhone 17 Pro has sparked frustration among users after it was discovered that a popular camera feature available on previous models has been removed.

The change, confirmed through an Apple Support document, has left buyers questioning why the company made the move without explanation.

iPhone buyers usually expect each new model to improve on its predecessor. But eagle-eyed users on Reddit and Apple’s discussion forums noticed that the iPhone 17 Pro does not support Night mode in Portrait mode, a capability that older models—including the iPhone 16 Pro—offered.

One Reddit user, posting under the name catalyticclover, said the downgrade is noticeable: “Portraits at night don’t look nearly as good as they could, and it’s a downgrade compared to the quality that previous models could achieve.”

Apple document confirms issue

Technology outlet Macworld later verified the users’ claims. According to an Apple Support page, the list of devices that allow Portrait and Night mode to work together includes models from the iPhone 12 Pro to the iPhone 16 Pro Max—but excludes the iPhone 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max.

This confirms that Apple removed the feature rather than overlooking it.

Why does it matter?

Portrait mode helps users capture studio-style shots with a blurred background, while Night mode boosts image quality in low light through long-exposure processing. When combined, the two tools let photographers take artistic portrait shots even in darker environments.

With the iPhone 17 Pro, that combination is no longer possible.

Macworld notes that Night mode images on the iPhone 17 Pro lack the depth data required for Portrait mode, preventing the two from being used together. Similarly, when attempting to take a Portrait shot in dim conditions, Night mode simply disappears.

Despite this setback, the iPhone 17 Pro introduces several major camera upgrades.
All three rear lenses now feature a 48MP resolution, the device allows simultaneous photo and video capture, and the front camera includes Center Stage support.

Even so, users say the loss of the Portrait-Night mode combination limits creative flexibility.

Apple has not commented on why it removed the feature, and it is unclear whether the decision is tied to hardware limitations or software changes.

The report notes that Apple has been asked for clarification, and the story will be updated once the company responds.