There are rumours that Apple will release the iPhone 17 series in September 2025, consisting of four new models – iPhone 17, 17 Air, 17 Pro, and 17 Pro Max. As the release draws near, customers are wondering how the base iPhone 17 will compare with its Pro counterpart.
Design and Display
The Pro variant will likely get an overhaul, bringing back the aluminium frame, a new half-glass, half-metal back design, and an OLED display. Alongside these changes, the display will measure 6.3 inches and carry the ProMotion feature, allowing a variable refresh rate up to 120Hz. This will lead to smoother visuals along with better battery life. On the other hand, the base iPhone 17 is expected to keep a design around the iPhone 16, with the screen growing to 6.3 inches from the last generation’s 6.1, alongside a standard 60Hz OLED panel. Both devices will be equipped with Super Retina XDR and shall withstand drops with the all-new Ceramic Shield.
Explanatory Notes on the Device’s Capability
Not only is the iPhone 17 Pro rumoured to support dual-camera video recording and 8K video capturing, but it also boasts an exceptional triple camera system consisting of three 48MP wide, ultra-wide, and telephoto lenses. Additionally, the optional mechanical aperture could improve photography by giving better field depth control. The vanilla iPhone 17 is simpler, featuring a single 48 MP primary camera, focusing on ease of photography. Both models will have a front-facing camera that has been upgraded to 24MP, a two-times increase from last year. It is expected to enhance the quality of selfies and video calls.
Improvements in Functionality and Mechanical Components
With Apple’s new A19 Pro Chip, the iPhone 17 Pro will have a 3nm architecture, increasing its efficiency and speed. The Pro version is also expected to have up to 12GB of RAM, allowing for seamless multitasking and gaming. iPhone 17 is predicted to have the regular A19 chip and will be paired with 8GB of RAM. All models will now support Wi-Fi 7, allowing for better wireless connectivity. This will be made possible with Apple’s first in-house Wi-Fi chip.
Battery and Charging
Though specifications about the iPhone 17 Pro’s battery aren’t confirmed, its predecessor’s battery life is said to be better than that of its predecessor, which was equipped with a more robust lithium polymer battery. Pro devices are also expected to support fast wireless charging.
Price and Availability
Forecasts show the iPhone 17 will retail at ₹99,900, while the iPhone 17 Pro will start at ₹1,39,900. The Pro version is expected to lure customers looking for top-notch camera, display, and overall performance features. This is aligned with Apple’s strategy for maintaining a higher-priced tier with the Pro version, which justifies the rising component costs and tariffs.
Launch Timeline
Based on Apple’s historic device launch patterns, I expect an event for the announcement of the iPhone 17 series on September 11 – 13, 2025. The devices are expected to be available for pre-order almost immediately after the announcement.
Comparison Between iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro
| Feature | iPhone 17 | iPhone 17 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.1 inches OLED | 6.3 inches OLED |
| Resolution | 2556 x 1179 pixels | 2622 x 1206 pixels |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 1-120Hz (ProMotion, LTPO) |
| Processor | Apple A19 | Apple A19 Pro |
| RAM | 8 GB | 12 GB |
| Storage Options | 128 GB (base) | 128 GB (base) |
| Rear Cameras | 48 MP main, 12 MP ultra-wide | 48 MP main, 48 MP ultra-wide, 48 MP telephoto (5x zoom) |
| Front Camera | 24 MP | 24 MP |
| Battery | ~3,600 mAh | ~3,700 mAh |
| Build/Design | Aluminum frame, glass back | Dynamic Island, Face ID, and HDR display |
| Special Features | Aluminium frame, glass back | Dynamic Island, Face ID, Always-On Display, ProMotion, Metalens tech, anti-reflective coating |
| Operating System | iOS 19 | iOS 19 |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 7, Apple 5G modem | Wi-Fi 7, Apple 5G modem |
| Expected Price (INR) | ₹89,990 | ₹1,49,990 |
| Expected Launch | September 2025 | September 2025 |
This table summarises the key differences and similarities between the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro based on current leaks and reports.
Conclusion
The upcoming iPhone 17 Pro will feature a significant redesign, advanced camera features, and performance enhancements, which will appeal to power users and avid photographers. iPhone 17 customers will appreciate the brand’s quality and value, making it a good deal compared to other flagship phones. With these models, Apple is poised to strengthen its image further in the smartphone market’s increasing competition in 2026.
