Apple Leaker Criticized for Allegedly Skipping Payments to Concept Artists Behind iPhone 17 Pro & iPhone 17 Pro Max Design Renders

The recent surge of concept renders for the iPhone 17 series—including the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max—has captured the attention of tech enthusiasts and social media users alike. These creative individuals toil tirelessly to produce eye-catching images that often shape public expectations for new device designs. It is reasonable to believe that such dedication deserves fair compensation; otherwise, it raises significant ethical concerns about the treatment of these artists.

Regrettably, some creators find themselves exploited and misled regarding payment for their contributions. A particularly troubling case involves a renowned leaker, who displayed designs for the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max without adequately compensating the artists involved in their creation. This situation prompted one affected artist to voice his grievances on social media, criticizing the leaker for neglecting his payment obligations while continuing his content production as if nothing were amiss.

Freelancers Rally Against Non-Payment in the Tech Community

Numerous freelancers have taken to platforms like YouTube and X to shed light on the alleged non-payment practices of Jon Prosser, the host of the YouTube channel Front Page Tech. Recently, he provided insights into potential design changes for the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max, including a new rear panel bar; however, the alignment of the camera cluster will remain unchanged. Concept artist Shea, using the handle @concept_central, shared a comprehensive thread on X detailing Prosser’s ongoing interactions with freelancers, claiming a pattern of evasion and unfulfilled financial commitments spanning over five years.

In support of his claims, Shea referenced a video by Randy Vazquez, which recounts an ordeal from 2020 in which Prosser promised $1, 000 for work but failed to pay the freelancer for several months. Ultimately, following pressure and a video that highlighted the issue, Randy received a partial payment of $400, indicating that good can arise from public accountability. Recently, Shea reported that another designer, Asher, has been awaiting payment for three months.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LHWH2AbcsfI

Jon Prosser Played Me, And He's Playing All Of You Too (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LHWH2AbcsfI)

After a prolonged delay, Asher eventually received only a third of the expected payment. Following his communication about purchasing a new phone, Prosser gifted him a new iPhone 16 Pro—a gesture that raises questions about the appropriateness of substituting cash payments with products, especially when the artist was left short-changed. Moreover, a newly engaged concept artist reported that he had not received any form of payment for his work, highlighting a concerning trend where ‘exposure’ is offered instead of monetary compensation.

Let’s talk about @jon_prosser‘s 5+ year history of not paying his employees and then ghosting when they ask to be paid

This is a warning to other freelancers and the entire tech community (1/15) 🧵 pic.twitter.com/gmUituvUJ0

— Shea (@concept_central) March 11, 2025

In conclusion, Shea asserts that he is aware of at least four individuals, including himself, who are awaiting payments from Prosser. The situation with Asher’s iPhone ‘gift’ is not an isolated incident; other individuals have experienced similar treatment. Shea emphasizes that not all YouTubers operate in this manner and expresses gratitude for the many who treat freelancers with fairness and respect. As a cautionary note, he urges creatives to exercise caution when contemplating business relationships with Prosser.

News Source: Shea

Source & Images