3 min read
Apple’s iPhone 17 is here, and this time the base model feels like a true upgrade. For years, non-Pro buyers have lived with compromises, but that changes now. The iPhone 17 brings meaningful improvements in performance, display technology, and cameras, making it one of Apple’s most compelling updates in recent memory.
Subtle Design, New Colors
Unboxing the iPhone 17 offers few surprises. Apple continues its push for minimal packaging, leaving only a cable inside. At this point, many question why Apple even includes it, since most buyers already own multiple charging accessories.
The design itself sees little change. The iPhone 17 is slightly larger than the iPhone 16, with thinner bezels and a bigger screen. These differences are small enough that most users won’t notice them day-to-day.
What you will notice are the new color options. This year, Apple introduced Lavender, Mist Blue, and Sage alongside classic black and white. True to Apple’s pattern, last year’s bold Ultramarine and Pink shades have been replaced with softer, muted tones.
Display and Performance Upgrades
The most important change lies in the display. For the first time, a non-Pro iPhone gets a 120 Hz refresh rate. This represents a significant leap from the old 60 Hz panel, finally placing the iPhone 17 on par with even budget Android competitors. The display is also brighter, peaking at 3000 nits compared to 2000 nits on its predecessor. Apple has added DC dimming support and an always-on display mode, both long-requested features.
Inside, the iPhone 17 runs on Apple’s new A19 chip. Compared to the A16 Bionic in the iPhone 15, performance gains are huge: up to 40% faster on the CPU and 80% on the GPU. However, it is still a trimmed-down version of the A19 Pro chip found on higher-end models. The phone also skips the new C1X modem from the iPhone Air, but it does include the N1 wireless chip with support for modern standards.
Camera and Battery Improvements
Apple has also revamped the camera system. The iPhone 17 introduces a Dual Fusion setup with a 48MP main camera and a 48MP ultra-wide lens. This upgrade makes ultra-wide and macro shots sharper and more detailed.
On the front, the new 18MP Center Stage camera brings more flexibility. It can capture both portrait and landscape shots without rotating the phone. It also expands its field of view automatically when more people enter the frame. A new Dual Capture feature allows simultaneous recording from the front and rear cameras, making it useful for vloggers and creators.
Battery life is another win. A slightly larger battery, combined with efficiency gains, delivers longer usage. Charging speeds are faster as well, both wired and wireless, reducing downtime significantly.
Finally, Apple has dropped the 128GB option. The iPhone 17 now starts at 256GB, with a 512GB model available for those who need more space. There is no higher variant beyond that.
Conclusion
The iPhone 17 may look familiar, but the changes inside make it Apple’s most improved standard iPhone in years. A smoother 120Hz display, major performance gains, upgraded cameras, and better battery life finally make the base model feel premium. For buyers who avoided the non-Pro iPhones in the past, the iPhone 17 delivers fewer compromises and far more value.
