iPhone 17 vs iPhone 16: 5 Major Upgrades to Expect in the Next Generation While the iPhone 16 series, including the newly launched iPhone 16e, is still making waves, leaks and rumors about the upcoming iPhone 17 are already swirling. Set for release in September 2025, the iPhone 17 lineup could bring some of the most significant design and feature upgrades since the iPhone X debuted in 2017. While the Pro models will likely get most of the attention, it’s the standard iPhone 17 that may surprise users with its major improvements. Here’s a detailed look at five key upgrades expected in the iPhone 17 that could make it a standout over the iPhone 16.
Larger Display and Enhanced Design: A New Form Factor for the iPhone 17
One of the most notable changes in the iPhone 17 is the potential increase in screen size. The base model iPhone 17 might receive a small size bump, growing from the iPhone 16’s 6.1-inch display to a 6.3-inch display. This would match the display size of the iPhone 16 Pro, offering a larger screen without jumping into the Plus size territory. If rumors are true, Apple may also discontinue the Plus model, leaving the iPhone 17 in a sweet spot between the smaller 6.1-inch option and the larger 6.7-inch models. In total, the iPhone 17 lineup could feature the following screen sizes:
- iPhone 17: 6.3-inch display
- iPhone 17 Air: 6.6-inch display
- iPhone 17 Pro: 6.3-inch display
- iPhone 17 Pro Max: 6.9-inch display
120Hz ProMotion Display for All iPhone 17 Models
One of the most exciting potential upgrades for the iPhone 17 series is the introduction of the 120Hz ProMotion display across all models, a feature that was previously exclusive to the Pro variants. This means that even the base iPhone 17 and the iPhone 17 Air could enjoy the benefits of adaptive refresh rates ranging from 1Hz to 120Hz. With this technology, users can expect smoother scrolling, enhanced video playback, and possibly even an always-on display — though the latter might remain a Pro-only feature. All models are rumored to incorporate LTPO (low-temperature polycrystalline oxide) panels for improved energy efficiency, ensuring that battery life remains optimal while providing buttery-smooth visuals.
Faster and More Efficient Performance with the A19 Chip
The iPhone 17 series will likely debut Apple’s next-generation A19 chip, built on an enhanced 3nm process, improving both speed and energy efficiency. While the Pro models will be equipped with the more advanced A19 Pro chip, the standard iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Air will still see substantial improvements in performance compared to the iPhone 16 series. Thanks to TSMC’s N3P technology, users can expect faster speeds, more responsive multitasking, and longer battery life compared to the A18 chip found in the iPhone 16.
Key Chip Features:
- iPhone 16: A18 chip
- iPhone 17: A19 chip (based on enhanced 3nm technology)
Significant Camera Upgrade: A 24MP Selfie Camera for All Models
The iPhone 17 could bring a major upgrade to its front-facing camera. Leaks suggest that Apple is set to jump from a 12MP selfie camera (used in the iPhone 16) to a 24MP front camera across all models in the iPhone 17 lineup. This means users can look forward to crisper, more detailed selfies, even when cropped. Additionally, there’s speculation that Apple might introduce a mechanical aperture for the first time in an iPhone, allowing users to adjust the amount of light that enters the lens. This would open up possibilities for better depth control, giving users the ability to take more professional-quality selfies and video calls.
Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.3: Faster Connectivity with the iPhone 17
Apple is expected to equip the iPhone 17 lineup with its own custom Wi-Fi 7 chip. This new chip will enable faster speeds (over 40Gb/s), lower latency, and improved overall efficiency. Wi-Fi 7 would significantly enhance the user experience when streaming content, downloading files, or using wireless devices. Along with Wi-Fi 7, the iPhone 17 will likely support Bluetooth 5.3, ensuring better wireless performance across the board, especially with new peripherals and accessories. These connectivity enhancements will make the iPhone 17 one of the fastest and most reliable smartphones on the market.
iPhone 17 vs iPhone 16 Comparison Overview
|
Feature |
iPhone 16 |
iPhone 17 |
|
Screen Size |
6.1-inch (base model) |
6.3-inch (base model) |
|
Display Technology |
Standard Retina Display |
120Hz ProMotion (adaptive) |
|
Chipset |
A18 Chip |
A19 Chip (based on enhanced 3nm process) |
|
Front Camera |
12MP selfie camera |
24MP selfie camera with adjustable aperture |
|
Wi-Fi & Connectivity |
Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0 |
Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3 |
|
Battery Life |
Standard |
Longer battery life (due to more efficient chip) |
|
Model Variants |
iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus |
iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max |
Conclusion: Why the iPhone 17 Will Be a Major Upgrade
The iPhone 17 is shaping up to be one of the most significant upgrades in Apple’s history. With a larger screen, smoother displays, faster chipsets, enhanced cameras, and improved connectivity, the iPhone 17 is likely to offer a superior experience over the iPhone 16 in nearly every area. Whether you’re looking for better performance, improved photography, or a smoother display, the iPhone 17 could be the right choice for you. Keep an eye out for Apple’s official announcements in September 2025 to get all the details on this much-anticipated device.