Apple launches iPhone 17 with 120Hz display and dual 48MP
Apple has officially introduced the iPhone 17, positioned as the centerpiece of its 2025 smartphone lineup. While the iPhone Air attracted attention for its slim 5.6mm design and the iPhone 17 Pro series delivered the most advanced features, the standard iPhone 17 represents a significant leap for the non-Pro range, narrowing the gap between premium and mainstream models.
The iPhone 17 debuts with a larger and brighter 6.3-inch Super Retina XDR display, the first non-Pro iPhone to integrate ProMotion technology with an adaptive refresh rate up to 120Hz. The panel supports Always-On functionality by scaling down to 1Hz and achieves peak brightness of 3,000 nits, doubling outdoor contrast compared to the iPhone 16. Protection comes from Ceramic Shield 2 with an improved coating that enhances scratch resistance and reduces glare.
Inside, the iPhone 17 is powered by Apple’s new 3nm A19 chip. It carries a six-core CPU and a five-core GPU, designed to deliver a performance uplift aimed at convincing iPhone 13 owners to upgrade. Apple Intelligence is supported via an enhanced Neural Engine, while the new display engine and ISP enable richer visuals and camera processing. Battery endurance is claimed at up to 30 hours of video playback, with fast charging allowing 50 percent capacity in 20 minutes when paired with Apple’s new 40W Dynamic Power Adapter.
For connectivity, the iPhone 17 includes the Apple-designed N1 chip with Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, Thread support, and improved stability for features like AirDrop and Personal Hotspot. In select regions including the United States, Canada, Japan, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, the device will be available in eSIM-only configurations.
The most prominent hardware upgrade is in imaging. For the first time, a non-Pro iPhone includes two 48MP cameras. The main sensor supports lossless 2x optical zoom, while the ultrawide lens includes macro capabilities. A new Bright photographic style introduced in iOS 26 enhances skin tones and vibrancy in images. On the front, an 18MP Center Stage camera adapts to frame wider group selfies and maintains subject positioning in video capture.
Apple has raised the baseline storage to 256GB, with the iPhone 17 priced from $799 in the United States. It will be offered in lavender, mist blue, sage, white, and black. Pre-orders begin on September 12 in 63 countries and regions, with deliveries scheduled for September 19, followed by a second wave launch on September 26.
The broader iPhone 17 lineup also includes the premium Pro and Pro Max models with aluminum unibody designs, upgraded 48MP triple-camera systems, and the high-end A19 Pro chip, alongside the new iPhone Air, which replaces the iPhone 16 Plus. Apple has also adjusted its existing portfolio, discontinuing the iPhone 16 Pro series while reducing prices on the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus.
