Can you believe we’re less than six months away from the potential reveal of the next iPhone? After spending over six months with the iPhone 16 Pro Max, I have developed a clear perspective on which upcoming model excites me the most. This anticipation builds despite the expected shakeup during the September iPhone event this year.
This fall, the iPhone 17 lineup is starting to take shape, with models like the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max anticipated to retain their high-ranking positions. Rumors suggest the introduction of more intriguing models, such as the iPhone 17 Air or iPhone 17 Ultra. While thin phones are trending this year, I believe the iPhone 17 Pro will be the most reliable choice for the majority of users.
Having captured hundreds of photos with the iPhone 16 Pro Max, I’ve compared its camera performance against competitors like the Galaxy S25 Ultra and Pixel 9 Pro XL in numerous photo shootouts. It has stood its ground well, but interestingly, the iPhone 16 Pro ranks higher in our best camera phones guide. This is due to it sharing the same impressive camera setup, including a 12MP telephoto camera with 5x optical zoom.
Unlike previous years, where the Pro Max had superior zoom capabilities, the current camera leaks for the iPhone 17 Pro vary. Some rumors suggest an upgrade to a 48MP sensor, while others indicate a reduction to a 3.5x optical zoom. Nevertheless, both the iPhone 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max are expected to be equipped with the same camera features, ensuring they meet diverse photography needs.
While the spotlight might be on the iPhone 17 Air, primarily as Apple’s response to the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge, I remain unconvinced by the implications of its thin design. The trend towards thinner phones this year, including the iPhone 17 Air, raises concerns about potential compromises in battery life. The iPhone 16 Pro performed admirably in our battery benchmark test, averaging 14 hours and 7 minutes.
As the iPhone 17 Air is anticipated to feature a larger 6.7-inch display, I doubt it can achieve a longer battery life while accommodating the spatial limitations imposed by its slim profile.
It’s hard to imagine Apple pricing the iPhone 17 Air at $899, despite rumors suggesting it might replace the iPhone 16 Plus in the lineup. If true, this means the iPhone 17 Air would take the spot of the 17 Plus at this price point. Conversely, it’s also possible that the iPhone 17 Air could be priced higher than the Pro Max, which would be surprising but not entirely unexpected. Thinner designs typically come with increased costs, despite the potential drawbacks.
In my view, the iPhone 17 Pro remains the best value for money. Although it's uncertain whether it will maintain the $999 price point of the iPhone 16 Pro, the expected features—including the best cameras, the flagship A19 Pro chip, and a suitably sized battery—will likely provide excellent value.
Additionally, there’s speculation about the iPhone 17 Ultra potentially replacing the Pro Max in the lineup. While its starting price may mirror the current $1,199, an increase is likely due to enhancements such as a larger battery for extended battery life and a revamped cooling system. However, I personally prefer to save money and opt for the iPhone 17 Pro instead.
The upcoming iPhone 17 lineup promises exciting developments, with a focus on enhanced camera capabilities and design innovations. As we approach the reveal, it's clear that the iPhone 17 Pro is shaping up to be a standout choice for consumers, combining performance with value.
