16 new features of the iPhone 17 you need to know
Major design, camera, and performance upgrades coming in Apple’s 2025 lineup
DUBAI: Apple’s upcoming iPhone 17 series is shaping up to be one of the most significant updates in recent years.
Set to launch in September 2025, the new lineup will include four models: iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max – completely replacing the ‘Plus’ model.
This year’s range introduces 16 substantial changes, from all-new designs and display technologies to camera enhancements and internal component upgrades. Here’s a closer look at what to expect.
All-New iPhone 17 Air
Apple is launching a new model called iPhone 17 Air, featuring a super-thin design measuring around 6mm – making it the slimmest iPhone ever. With a 6.6-inch display, it slots between the Pro and Pro Max models in size. Its lightweight design (approx. 145 grams) and centralised camera bump mark a new design direction for Apple.
Elimination of iPhone Plus
The iPhone 17 Plus is no more. After several years of underwhelming demand, Apple has discontinued the Plus model and replaced it with the Air variant, offering a more appealing balance between screen size and premium design.
ProMotion on all models
All four iPhone 17 models will now feature ProMotion technology with 120Hz refresh rates. Previously exclusive to Pro devices, this brings smoother scrolling and improved visuals to the entire lineup.
LTPO OLED displays
To support ProMotion and improve energy efficiency, every iPhone 17 model will adopt LTPO OLED panels. These displays can dynamically adjust the refresh rate from 1Hz to 120Hz, allowing for potentially always-on displays.
Redesigned Dynamic Island
Some reports indicate that Apple will reduce the size of the Dynamic Island using new metalens technology for Face ID. While opinions differ on whether this will debut in 2025, it remains a significant rumoured update across the range.
Slimmer bezels
Apple is further narrowing the bezels on the iPhone 17 series, expanding the slim design language first introduced in the iPhone 16 Pro to all 2025 models for a more immersive display.
Horizontal camera bumps
The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max will feature horizontal camera bars—a departure from the traditional square layout. The iPhone 17 Air will follow a similar horizontal bump design, while the standard iPhone 17 retains a vertical layout.
24MP front camera
All iPhone 17 models will receive a 24-megapixel front-facing camera, doubling the resolution of the iPhone 16’s 12MP sensor. This will significantly enhance selfies and video calls.
Upgraded rear cameras
The iPhone 17 Pro Max will feature three 48MP cameras—Wide, Ultra Wide, and Telephoto. The iPhone 17 Air gets a single 48MP rear lens, while the iPhone 17 sticks with a dual-lens setup (Wide and Ultra Wide).
A19 and A19 Pro Chips
The new iPhones will be powered by Apple’s A19 chip, built on TSMC’s upgraded 3nm N3P process. The Pro and Pro Max will feature the A19 Pro, offering improved performance and power efficiency.
Up to 12GB RAM
Apple is increasing memory capacity, with the iPhone 17 Pro, Pro Max, and Air models receiving 12GB RAM, up from 8GB. The standard iPhone 17 will remain at 8GB.
Apple’s first in-house 5G modem
The iPhone 17 Air is expected to debut Apple’s first in-house 5G modem, replacing Qualcomm components. It will support up to 4Gb/s speeds over sub-6GHz 5G (no mmWave).
Apple-designed Wi-Fi 7 chip
All four iPhones will feature an Apple-designed Wi-Fi 7 chip, delivering multi-band support (2.4GHz, 5GHz, 6GHz) and speeds over 40Gb/s. It enables faster and more stable wireless performance with compatible routers.
Faster wireless charging
The iPhone 17 series is expected to support 25W wireless charging using third-party Qi 2.2 chargers – up from the previous 15W. Wired charging remains capped at 35W.
Battery improvements & easier replacement
Apple is likely to roll out its new low-voltage adhesive system across the iPhone 17 lineup. Already in use in some iPhone 16 models, this makes battery replacements easier without requiring heat or solvents.
Dual video recording
Exclusive to the Pro models, Apple is introducing dual video recording. Users will be able to record with the front and rear cameras simultaneously, a long-awaited feature for vloggers and content creators.