Pre-orders for the devices begin Friday, Sept. 12, with in-store availability starting a week later on Sept. 19 in more than 60 countries.
The new iPhones introduce a host of upgrades aimed at Apple’s most demanding users, including creative professionals, mobile gamers and tech enthusiasts. Starting at $1,099 for the Pro and $1,199 for the Pro Max, the devices also mark Apple’s continued push into high-end smartphone territory.
Redesigned From the Inside Out
Both models feature a new aerospace-grade brushed aluminum chassis, integrating a laser-welded vapor chamber cooling system designed to improve sustained performance. Apple claims the new internal structure allows for more efficient heat dissipation, supporting higher performance levels while keeping the devices cool to the touch.The redesign also enables a larger battery, contributing to what Apple says is the longest battery life ever in an iPhone. With a new 40W USB-C power adapter, the phones can charge up to 50% in just 20 minutes.
The Super Retina XDR display, available in 6.3-inch and 6.9-inch sizes, now features Ceramic Shield 2 on both the front and back, improving scratch resistance by up to three times and enhancing durability against drops and cracks.
A19 Pro Chip: Boosting AI and Gaming
At the heart of the iPhone 17 Pro lineup is the A19 Pro chip, Apple’s fastest and most efficient mobile processor yet. With a 6-core CPU and GPU architecture that includes integrated Neural Accelerators, the chip boosts graphics performance and accelerates on-device AI tasks. Apple says sustained performance is up to 40% better than the previous generation.The devices also introduce a new wireless networking chip, dubbed N1, supporting Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread for improved connectivity and reliability in features like AirDrop and Personal Hotspot.
A Camera System That Mimics Eight Lenses
Apple continues to push boundaries in mobile photography, equipping the Pro models with three 48MP “Fusion” rear cameras, Main, Ultra Wide, and a new Telephoto, offering up to 8x optical-quality zoom. The new 200mm 8x telephoto is the longest zoom ever on an iPhone.The front camera has also received a major overhaul, with an 18MP “Center Stage” lens that uses AI to reframe selfies and video calls in real-time. Users can now record simultaneously using the front and rear cameras, a feature aimed at content creators.
Professional video capabilities are another highlight, with support for ProRes RAW, Apple Log 2, and genlock, the latter enabling precise video synchronization across multiple cameras. These features cater to filmmakers and production professionals, who can now integrate iPhone footage into multi-cam setups.
iOS 26 and Apple Intelligence
The devices will ship with iOS 26, which debuts Apple Intelligence, Apple’s new AI suite. Features include live translation in Messages and FaceTime, visual search across screenshots, and an on-device foundation model that developers can access for offline tasks. Apple emphasizes that its AI runs locally on-device, prioritizing user privacy.eSIM Expansion, Environmental Goals
Apple is further expanding support for eSIM, removing the physical SIM tray in additional countries including Japan, Mexico, and Saudi Arabia. eSIM-only models allow for better security and offer additional space for battery expansion, contributing up to two more hours of video playback on supported models.The company also highlighted its environmental progress, noting that both iPhone 17 Pro models are made with 30% recycled materials and 100% recycled cobalt in the battery. Apple aims to make all of its products carbon-neutral by 2030.
Pricing, Availability, and Accessories
The iPhone 17 Pro is available in 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB storage options, while the Pro Max adds a 2TB variant for the first time. Both phones come in three new finishes: deep blue, cosmic orange, and silver.New accessories include a TechWoven Case made of multi-colored yarn, a Crossbody Strap for hands-free carrying, and Apple’s 40W Dynamic Power Adapter with 60W Max output. Accessories range from $39 to $59.
Apple is also extending trade-in and carrier promotions, offering up to $1,100 in credits for eligible device exchanges.
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