Video functions have also be significantly improved. The Pro models can capture Dolby Vision HDR, record 4K video up to 120 frames per second and enable simultaneous front-and-rear recording. The front-facing “Center Stage” camera has been upgraded to an 18-megapixel square sensor, designed for 4K HDR recording with stronger stabilization. On the rear, all three cameras now use 48-megapixel sensors. The telephoto module has been redesigned with a sensor area approximately 56 percent larger than its predecessor, though its native reach decreases from 120mm to 100mm, compensated by offering an 8× mode through sensor cropping. The main and ultra-wide modules retain their focal lengths but benefit from improved image processing through the Photonic Engine. Focal lengths equivalent to 13mm, 24mm, 35mm, 48mm, 100mm and 200mm are available, providing a range that covers most common photographic applications.

Hardware changes accompany these imaging updates. The Pro models adopt an aluminum frame, replacing titanium, in part to improve thermal efficiency. A redesigned vapor chamber improves heat dissipation for the A19 Pro processor, which integrates 16 GPU cores and offers performance increases over the A18 generation. A larger battery extends playback times to 33 hours on the Pro and 39 hours on the Pro Max. Displays measure 6.3 inches and 6.9 inches respectively, offering 3000 nits peak brightness, adaptive 120Hz refresh rates and improved scratch and glare resistance.

The standard iPhone 17 brings modest changes compared to its predecessor. It replaces the 12-megapixel ultra-wide module with a 48-megapixel version and outputs 24-megapixel images by default. Its main sensor remains unchanged from the iPhone 16 but retains the ability to crop for 2× zoom. Finally, the device uses the A19 processor, which is more power-efficient than the previous chip, and introduces a slightly larger 6.3-inch display with ProMotion. Storage now begins at 256GB.

The iPhone 17 Air is a new entry in the series, designed around thinness and portability: at 5.6mm thick and 165g in weight, it is the thinnest iPhone Apple has produced. The design relies on titanium and Ceramic Shield glass, with key components relocated into the raised camera plateau to achieve the slim profile. The display measures 6.5 inches, reaches 3000 nits brightness, and supports 120Hz refresh rates. Unlike the other models, the Air uses a single rear camera: a 48-megapixel Fusion sensor with a 26mm equivalent focal length. Through cropping, it can deliver a 2× telephoto mode, and Apple provides computational support for simulated portrait depth effects. The Air lacks the ultra-wide module of the standard iPhone 17 but retains the same 18-megapixel square front camera, capable of simultaneous dual capture with the rear sensor.

Despite its reduced thickness, the Air includes the A19 Pro chip, although with one fewer GPU core than the Pro series. It also integrates Apple’s new N1 chip for Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6, along with the C1X modem. Battery life is rated at up to 27 hours of video playback, somewhat lower than the larger models.

Pricing reflects the positioning of the devices. The iPhone 17 starts at $799, the Air at $999, the 17 Pro at $1,099 and the Pro Max at $1,199. Storage options extend up to 2TB on the Pro models. Preorders open on September 12, with general availability beginning on September 19, 2025.