Apple has upgraded the baseline storage across all iPhone 17 models, doubling it from the 128GB entry tier of the iPhone 16 lineup to a more practical 256GB. This change gives users more breathing room for apps, media, and operating system demands without immediately needing to step up to higher-priced tiers. It also signals Apple’s intent to align its devices with the growing needs of power users and mainstream customers alike.
The regular iPhone 17 now offers two options: 256GB and 512GB. Apple’s ultra-thin iPhone Air and the iPhone 17 Pro provide more flexibility with 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB configurations. For professionals and creators, the iPhone 17 Pro Max introduces a 2TB storage tier for the first time on any iPhone, addressing years of speculation about when Apple would finally deliver this capacity. Earlier rumors dating back to the iPhone 14 Pro, 15 Pro, and 16 Pro all hinted at 2TB, but it has only now materialized.
The expanded storage does not come with a price hike for the entry-level iPhone 17, which remains $799 for 256GB. The Pro and Pro Max models keep broadly similar pricing to last year’s lineup at the same storage levels, but the addition of a $1,999 2TB Pro Max sets a new high for Apple’s non-foldable smartphones.
iPhone 16 vs iPhone 17 storage and pricing
| Model | Storage | iPhone 16 Price (USD) | iPhone 17 Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | 128GB | $699 | – |
| 256GB | $799 | $799 | |
| 512GB | $999 | $999 | |
| Pro | 128GB | $999 | – |
| 256GB | $1,099 | $1,099 | |
| 512GB | $1,299 | $1,299 | |
| 1TB | $1,499 | $1,499 | |
| Pro Max | 128GB | $1,099 | – |
| 256GB | $1,199 | $1,199 | |
| 512GB | $1,399 | $1,399 | |
| 1TB | $1,599 | $1,599 | |
| 2TB | – | $1,999 | |
| Air (new) | 256GB | – | $999 |
| 512GB | – | $1,199 | |
| 1TB | – | $1,399 |
This table highlights how Apple has eliminated the 128GB option entirely and standardized 256GB as the entry point. The Pro Max is the only model to push beyond 1TB, reaching the new 2TB maximum.
The 2TB configuration is expected to appeal to professionals who record high volumes of ProRes video, handle extensive photography libraries, or use their iPhone as a primary mobile workstation. For everyday users, starting at 256GB reduces the chances of running out of space, especially as apps, games, and system updates continue to grow larger.
Pre-orders for all iPhone 17 models open on Friday, September 12, with in-store availability and deliveries beginning on Friday, September 19.
