Apple iPhone 17 Review: Affordable Upgrades Make it a Strong Contender

The iPhone 17, starting at $829, offers significant upgrades that narrow the gap between Apple’s entry-level phone and the more expensive Pro models. Its display now features a 6.3-inch OLED screen with a 1-120Hz adaptive refresh rate, bringing it closer to the Pro models. It also boasts a higher 3,000-nit peak brightness and improved outdoor visibility, which makes it easier to see content under bright light. The iPhone 17 comes with a dual 48-megapixel camera system, including wide and ultrawide lenses, making it a more versatile photography tool compared to the iPhone Air. The phone also gets a significant boost in battery life, providing up to 30 hours of video playback. The iPhone 17 includes iOS 26, featuring new customization options, a refreshed interface, and useful tools like Live Translation and the Dual Capture camera mode. Despite minor design updates and the absence of a telephoto lens, the iPhone 17 offers great value for those seeking powerful features without the premium price tag. For users of older iPhones (iPhone 14 and earlier), the iPhone 17 represents a worthwhile upgrade, while iPhone 16 users may want to hold onto their device for a while longer.