Apple has unveiled the new iPhone 17, upgrading the standard model with a larger 6.3-inch display and a smooth 120Hz ProMotion refresh rate, while keeping a familiar, refined design language and refreshed colors for broader appeal. The launch builds on last year’s big shifts in the iPhone 16 series Action Button, vertical dual cameras, and the Camera Control key—while aligning with Apple’s ramp-up of Apple Intelligence across devices.
What’s new
The iPhone 17 moves from 6.1 inches to 6.3 inches, bringing ProMotion to the non-Pro tier with adaptive refresh up to 120Hz and always-on capabilities via LTPO, improving fluidity in scrolling, gaming, and live activities on the Lock Screen. Apple is also offering lightly updated colors, echoing a clean, premium aesthetic similar to the prior generation’s look and feel.
Carryover changes from iPhone 16
Following 2024’s changes, the standard model retains the Action Button and the reintroduced vertical dual-camera layout, plus the Camera Control button that debuted across the lineup last year for quick shutter access and zoom sliding. Apple launched AI last year, though some Apple Intelligence features arrived later; still, iPhone 16 outsold iPhone 15 in the year-over-year Q4 window, signaling strong mainstream demand.
Apple Intelligence context
While the iPhone 17 showcases hardware smoothness, the bigger story is continued integration of Apple Intelligence across the ecosystem, as Apple uses new chips and software updates to deliver contextual assistance, smarter creativity, and on-device privacy for everyday tasks. Early iPhone 16 adoption data and earnings commentary suggest AI-forward iPhones are driving upgrades and stronger engagement heading into this cycle.
Availability and outlook
Coverage indicates Apple’s typical September availability with standard storage options and expected parity in pricing strategy, placing the iPhone 17 as the mainstream choice with a smoother display and subtle design refinements. Expect marketing to focus on the ProMotion upgrade, day-to-day performance, and the continuity of popular controls like Action and Camera Control.
FAQ
Q1: What’s the headline upgrade on iPhone 17?
A1: A larger 6.3-inch LTPO OLED with 120Hz ProMotion and always-on support, delivering visibly smoother interaction and better battery management.
Q2: Does it still have the Action Button and Camera Control?
A2: Yes, Apple keeps the Action Button and Camera Control introduced with iPhone 16, alongside the vertical dual-camera layout.
Q3: Are there new colours?
A3: Yes, the iPhone 17 comes in lightly refreshed colorways while maintaining a clean, familiar aesthetic from last year’s design.
Q4: How did iPhone 16 sell versus iPhone 15?
A4: Reporting and executive commentary indicated iPhone 16 outperformed iPhone 15 in the comparable Q4 period, despite staggered AI feature rollouts.
Q5: When can buyers expect availability?
A5: As with prior years, availability aligns with Apple’s September window, with standard configurations and pricing tiers anticipated for the mainstream model.