Apple has officially debuted the iPhone 17, bringing major upgrades to design, performance, and imaging. The new model introduces a 6.3-inch Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion, the innovative Center Stage front camera, and the A19 chip for faster performance and improved efficiency. It also features a stronger Ceramic Shield 2 cover with three times better scratch resistance and reduced glare, making it the most durable iPhone yet.
Alongside the hardware improvements, the iPhone 17 doubles its entry-level storage to 256GB and offers a 512GB option. It comes in five new colors: black, lavender, mist blue, sage, and white. Pre-orders open September 12, with availability beginning September 19.
Apple is positioning the iPhone 17 as a balanced upgrade that focuses on everyday usability while introducing features previously seen only in higher-end models. The device is powered by iOS 26, which brings Apple Intelligence tools such as Live Translation and advanced visual intelligence, further expanding the integration of on-device AI.
The biggest spotlight is on its redesigned front-facing camera system. The new Center Stage front camera uses a square sensor with up to 18MP resolution, supporting portrait and landscape selfies without needing to rotate the phone. It also uses AI to expand the field of view for group shots and enables stabilized 4K HDR video recording. Dual Capture allows simultaneous use of front and rear cameras, making it ideal for creators and video calls.
On the back, Apple has outfitted the iPhone 17 with an all-48MP camera lineup for the first time. The Fusion Main camera features an integrated 2x optical-quality Telephoto, while the new 48MP Ultra Wide delivers four times the resolution of the previous generation for expansive shots and macro photography. Next-generation Photographic Styles and Dolby Vision 4K60 fps video with Spatial Audio recording further refine the experience.
The A19 chip, built on 3-nanometer technology, delivers significant performance gains, with a CPU that’s 1.5x faster than the A15 Bionic and a GPU more than twice as fast. It integrates neural accelerators to power generative AI models on-device. Battery life also sees an upgrade, with up to 30 hours of video playback and faster charging supported by the new 40W Dynamic Power Adapter.
Connectivity also gets a boost with the new Apple-designed N1 chip, which enables Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread support. eSIM continues to expand, with iPhone 17 being sold in an eSIM-only version in markets like the U.S., UAE, Japan, and Saudi Arabia. This offers easier international roaming and stronger security compared to physical SIM cards.
Apple has also highlighted its environmental efforts, noting that iPhone 17 is made with 30 percent recycled materials, including 100 percent recycled cobalt in the battery and 85 percent recycled aluminum in the enclosure. Packaging is now fully fiber-based and recyclable.
Apple is also launching a lineup of new accessories with iPhone 17. A clear case and a silicone case with MagSafe are available, the latter in colors like black, neon yellow, light moss, anchor blue, and purple fog. A new Crossbody Strap crafted from 100 percent recycled yarns provides a hands-free way to carry the phone and comes in 10 color options. Apple also introduced the FineWoven Wallet with MagSafe in multiple finishes. For power, the new 40W Dynamic Power Adapter with 60W Max and a Qi2-certified MagSafe Charger in 25W are available in 1-meter and 2-meter lengths.
The iPhone 17 starts at $799 in the U.S. Customers trading in older devices can receive credits of up to $700, while carrier offers can provide as much as $1,100 in savings on upgrades.
