Apple enthusiasts are buzzing with excitement as the launch of the iPhone 17 series approaches, set for September 9 with the catchy tagline “Awe dropping.” Speculation is rife about what this new lineup will bring, especially with rumors swirling around a potential super-thin iPhone 17 Air. While we typically hold off on comparisons until phones actually release, the anticipation is too strong to ignore this time.
The iPhone 16 series introduced several noteworthy upgrades, particularly the new Camera Control key and improved battery life. The Pro and Pro Max models enjoyed significant enhancements with upgraded rear cameras and pro video recording modes. As we look ahead, these updates provide a solid template for what to expect from the iPhone 17 lineup.
Pricing Insights for the iPhone 17 Lineup
The iPhone 17 prices remain uncertain, largely influenced by potential tariff hikes. Analyst Edison Lee from Jefferies predicts a possible $50 increase across most models, excluding the baseline iPhone 17. Here’s a look at the expected starting prices:
- iPhone 17: $829 – This model may see minor adjustments due to tariffs.
- iPhone 17 Air: $979 – Positioned as a pricier standard model, its cost might edge close to $1,000.
- iPhone 17 Pro: $1,049 – A slight price bump is anticipated for this higher-spec model.
- iPhone 17 Pro Max: $1,249 – Following suit with a predicted $50 increase.
Design and Display Changes in the iPhone 17 Series
- iPhone 17: Camera bump redesign – Expected to feature a new vertical pill-shaped bump.
- iPhone 17 Air: Thinner with a single camera – Likely to replace the iPhone 16 Plus, featuring a horizontal bump design.
- iPhone 17 Pro: Larger horizontal camera bump – The camera design will remain largely unchanged, with a new wider bump.
- iPhone 17 Pro Max: Similar horizontal camera bump – Expected to follow the Pro model’s camera design changes.
Recent leaks indicate that Apple may transition from the traditional square camera block to a pill-shaped bar, following insights from notable leakers and CAD renders. This shift aims to modernize the aesthetic while retaining essential functionalities.
In line with prior models, the display sizes are expected to remain fairly consistent. Anticipate a 6.1-inch screen for the iPhone 17, 6.3 inches for the iPhone 17 Pro, and 6.9 inches for the iPhone 17 Pro Max. The iPhone 17 Air’s size is still under wraps, but it might retain dimensions akin to the iPhone 16 Plus.
Another exciting rumor suggests the elimination of the refresh rate disparity. All models are anticipated to sport a maximum 120Hz refresh rate, enhancing the overall user experience across the board.
Camera Comparisons Across the iPhone 17 Series
- iPhone 17: No changes – Expected to mirror last year’s 48-megapixel main and 12-megapixel ultrawide cameras.
- iPhone 17 Air: Single camera – This variant is likely to feature a 48-megapixel main camera.
- iPhone 17 Pro: Improved zoom – Anticipated to introduce an up to 8x optical zoom capability.
- iPhone 17 Pro Max: Enhanced zoom – Expected to inherit improved telephoto functionality.
With the iPhone 17 series, Apple appears to be maintaining a clear distinction in camera capabilities across models. Pro versions will continue to offer enhanced zoom features and additional lens configurations, appealing to photography enthusiasts looking for advanced options.
Specifications Breakdown for All iPhone 17 Models
- iPhone 17: Same CPU, potential new modem – Expected to include the A18 chip and possibly the C1 modem.
- iPhone 17 Air: New CPU, possibly new modem – Could feature the latest A19 chip and C1 modem.
- iPhone 17 Pro: New CPU, potentially new modem – Anticipated to come with upgrades similar to the Air model.
- iPhone 17 Pro Max: New CPU, larger battery – Expected to house an A19 chip and a larger battery capacity.
Historically, Apple keeps RAM specifications under wraps, but the iPhone 17 series will likely follow suit with around 8GB to support AI functionalities. Storage options are expected to remain consistent, with 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB alternatives for the standard iPhone 17 and options reaching up to 1TB for the Pro models.
Battery life is also a hot topic. While the iPhone 17 and Pro batteries are not expected to see significant changes, the Pro Max could boast a larger 5,000 mAh battery. The battery capacity for the iPhone 17 Air will likely be smaller, consistent with its thinner design.
With the introduction of iOS 26, users can look forward to enhanced functionalities and software improvements right out of the box with the iPhone 17 series.