The highly anticipated iPhone 17 has arrived, prompting many users to consider whether it’s time to upgrade from their older Apple devices. Depending on the model you currently own, switching to the iPhone 17 could represent a considerable advancement in features and performance. Starting at $829 (or $799 with carrier activation), the iPhone 17 brings several notable enhancements, including a minimum storage capacity of 256GB, a welcome increase from the previous 128GB entry-level option.
In our commitment to delivering unbiased tech content and thorough lab-based reviews, we encourage readers to add CNET as a preferred source on Google. The iPhone 17 includes several updates that make it an attractive choice, even in comparison to the pricier iPhone 17 Pro models. Notably, Apple has finally introduced a 1-120Hz display across its entire lineup, allowing for smoother scrolling and an always-on display without the hefty price tag of over $1,100 for the Pro models. Additionally, the screen features an anti-reflective coating and a peak brightness of 3,000 nits, enhancing visibility in bright outdoor conditions. The camera upgrades also elevate the quality of photos and selfies, making this model stand out.
While the iPhone 17 shares a similar aesthetic with the iPhone 16, there are significant differences lurking beneath the surface. One of the most prominent upgrades is the display refresh rate, which has jumped from a mere 60Hz on the iPhone 16 to 120Hz on the iPhone 17. This advancement means users can enjoy an always-on display feature, allowing them to quickly check the time and notifications without needing to wake the device.
The iPhone 17 also boasts a larger 6.3-inch display, compared to the 6.1-inch screen of the iPhone 16, thanks to slimmer bezels. This enhancement makes for a slightly more immersive viewing experience, although the difference may not be drastically noticeable. Furthermore, the new Ceramic Shield 2 cover on the iPhone 17 offers three times better scratch resistance, providing peace of mind against screen damage.
When it comes to photography, both models feature a 48-megapixel wide-angle camera, but the iPhone 17 improves the ultrawide camera resolution from 12 megapixels to 48 megapixels. The front-facing camera has also received an upgrade from 12 megapixels to 18 megapixels, enabling better selfies. New features like Center Stage allow automatic adjustment from portrait to landscape mode, ensuring everyone fits into the shot, while Dual Capture lets users record simultaneously with both front and back cameras.
Battery life has seen improvements, with Apple claiming the iPhone 17 supports up to 8 hours more video playback than the iPhone 16. During testing, the iPhone 17 demonstrated a more efficient battery performance, dropping from 100% to 89% in a 3-hour streaming session, compared to the iPhone 16's 86%. Additionally, the iPhone 17 supports 40-watt charging, a boost from the 25 watts available with the iPhone 16, allowing for quicker battery top-ups.
In conclusion, while the updates to the iPhone 17 position it as a solid device, the differences from the iPhone 16 are subtle enough that many users might not feel compelled to upgrade unless they specifically desire the smoother display and faster charging capabilities.
The iPhone 15 shares many features with the iPhone 16, including a 48-megapixel wide-angle camera and a 12-megapixel ultrawide camera. However, the iPhone 17 offers a larger 6.3-inch display with slimmer bezels, contributing to a more immersive experience. The lack of an Action button on the iPhone 15, which allows for customizable app launches in the iPhone 17, is another notable difference.
Both models feature a Dynamic Island cutout at the top of the display, but upgrading to the iPhone 17 will provide access to Apple Intelligence features, including advanced writing and image editing tools, as well as live translation capabilities.
The transition from the iPhone 14 to the iPhone 17 involves significant changes, most notably the shift from a Lightning port to a more universal USB-C port. This upgrade not only modernizes the charging experience but also allows compatibility with a wider range of devices. The iPhone 17 introduces features like Dynamic Island and a superior camera system, enhancing overall functionality.
If you're still using the iPhone 13, it may be time to consider an upgrade. The iPhone 17 brings enhancements in battery life, camera capabilities, and user interface features that are missing from the iPhone 13, making it a worthwhile investment for those looking to stay current with technology.
Switching from the iPhone 12 to the iPhone 17 will provide users with a notable upgrade in display size, camera quality, and overall performance. With the introduction of Dynamic Island and USB-C charging, as well as improvements in battery life, the iPhone 17 is a significant step forward for those still using older models.
In summary, while the iPhone 17 offers several enhancements over its predecessors, the decision to upgrade should be based on individual needs and preferences. For those using older models, the benefits of upgrading may be more pronounced, while recent iPhone 16 and 15 users might find it more reasonable to wait for future iterations.
