What's new in the iPhone 17 lineup

The big question everyone is asking right now isn't just about upgrading. It's about choosing. Do you go for one of the new iPhone 17 models, or do you wait for the elusive iPhone Air? We're breaking down everything you need to know to make the right call.

We've got four distinct devices to look at, and the lines are blurrier than ever. The base model is getting features we've wanted for years. The Air is rewriting the rules on design. And the Pros are focusing on raw performance and thermal management like never before.

In this post, we'll walk through the major changes for each device, highlight the most important features, and finally give you a clear answer on when and what you should upgrade to. Let's dive in.

The iPhone 17 is a sleeper hit

From the outside, the iPhone 17 might look a lot like the 16. Don't let that fool you. You shouldn't underestimate this device because, for the first time ever, the gap between the "base" model and the "Pro" model has significantly narrowed.

ProMotion is finally here

This is the headline feature. We finally have ProMotion on the base model iPhone. That means a 120Hz refresh rate on the 6.3-inch display. It's smoother, faster, and makes the phone feel incredibly responsive.

Ceramic Shield 2 offers second-generation protection against drops and scratches
A 48MP Fusion Camera on the back for incredible detail
An upgraded 18MP front-facing camera with Center Stage support
Powered by the extremely powerful A19 chip

We also get the new Apple-designed N1 chip. This improves Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity significantly. When you combine that with the claimed battery improvements, the base iPhone 17 is looking like the value king of this generation.

iPhone Air: Thinness over everything

This is the revolutionary one. The iPhone Air is all about being incredibly thin and light. When you hold it, you almost can't believe it. But achieving that form factor meant making some specific choices.

Despite the slim profile, it's actually a very capable device. It packs the A19 Pro chip—similar to the one in the 17 Pro—and a stunning 6.5-inch ProMotion display. The frame uses titanium on the outside for durability.

The compromises

To get this thin, some things had to go. Here is what you need to know before buying the Air:

It only has one 48MP camera on the back. No telephoto, no ultra-wide
It features a single speaker instead of the stereo setup we're used to
Battery life is still a question mark, though Apple claims "all-day battery"

Pro tip: If you go for the Air, check out the new MagSafe battery pack designed specifically for this model. It might be essential if you're a heavy user.

The Powerhouses: 17 Pro and Pro Max

If you want the most capable device possible, this is where you look. The 17 Pro and Pro Max feature a gorgeous new design on the back with a camera "plateau" aimed at packing in better sensors.

We're seeing striking new colors like Cosmic Orange and a Deep Blue finish. But the biggest change is actually in the materials.

Why aluminum is back

Apple has switched back to aluminum for the frame. Why move away from titanium? Two reasons: cooling and coating.

Aluminum spreads heat much better than titanium
It allows for a new vapor cooling technology inside the chassis
It works better with the new specialized coating Apple is using

This combines with the A19 Pro chip and a new vapor chamber cooling system. The phone can distribute heat more effectively, meaning sustained performance is significantly better. Plus, pushing components into the camera plateau cleared up space for the biggest battery ever in an iPhone.

When and what to upgrade

So, should you actually spend the money? Here is the breakdown based on what phone you have right now.

iPhone 11 or older: It's time. You are jumping five generations. The speed, screen, and camera differences will be massive. Do it.
iPhone 12 or 13: This is personal. If your battery is dying or your storage is full, this is a great time to jump. If your phone still works fine, you can probably hold out one more year.
iPhone 14 or newer: Unless you absolutely need a specific Pro feature, you're likely fine sticking with what you have.

Which model to pick

If you've decided to upgrade, here is where your money is best spent:

Best Value: The standard iPhone 17 ($799). With ProMotion now included, this is the best bang for your buck.
Best Design: The iPhone Air ($999). If you value portability and style over having the absolute best camera specs, this is for you.
Best Performance: The iPhone 17 Pro Max ($1199). If you need the biggest battery, the best cooling, and the most versatile camera, go Pro.

That's a wrap

This year's lineup is fascinating because Apple is finally giving the base model the love it deserves while trying something radically new with the Air. Whether you want the value of the 17 or the cool factor of the Air, there's a clear option for everyone.