iPhone 17 release: 3 biggest feature upgrades expected in Apple's upcoming smartphone series

Apple’s iPhone series continues to set trends in the smartphone industry, with each new launch attracting global attention. The company’s next-generation iPhone 17 lineup is expected to bring notable upgrades in display, camera technology, and performance, raising expectations among tech enthusiasts. With leaks and reports already hinting at significant improvements, Apple is gearing up to showcase the iPhone 17 series on September 9 at the Steve Jobs Theater in Cupertino.

1. Display and Size Upgrades

The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max are likely to differ primarily in size and display. The standard Pro is expected to feature a more compact 6.3-inch OLED panel, while the Pro Max may retain a larger 6.9-inch screen. As per The Verge, both displays are reported to support ProMotion technology, enabling a 120Hz refresh rate for smoother scrolling and video playback. The smaller iPhone 17 Pro could appeal to users who prefer a compact design without compromising on display quality, while the Pro Max caters to those who favor larger screens.

2. Enhanced Camera System

Apple is reportedly upgrading the camera setup on the Pro models. The iPhone 17 Pro is expected to include three 48-megapixel rear sensors—Wide, Ultra Wide, and a Tetraprism Telephoto lens—with potential zoom capabilities of up to 8x. This could bring its photography performance closer to top-tier Android flagships. Both Pro models are likely to support 8K video recording. Early reports and leaks from analyst Ming-Chi Kuo indicate that these camera enhancements may not be limited to the Pro Max, meaning buyers of the smaller Pro model may not have to compromise on photography.

3. Performance and Battery Improvements

The iPhone 17 series is expected to be powered by the A19 Pro chipset built on TSMC’s 3nm process, offering improved efficiency and speed. Upgraded RAM support is likely, enabling smoother multitasking and enhanced Apple Intelligence features in iOS 26. Battery capacity is expected to vary by model—the Pro Max may house a 5,000mAh battery, while the standard Pro could include a 3,700–4,000mAh unit. The series is also rumored to introduce reverse wireless charging at 7.5W and a vapor cooling system for better heat management.

Pricing and Availability

The iPhone 17 Pro Max is expected to launch in India at Rs 1,64,990 for the 256GB variant, while the standard Pro may see a smaller increase over the previous generation. Globally, the Pro Max could retail around $1,249 in the US and between AED 5,299 and AED 6,999 in Dubai. Expected color options include black, white, grey, and dark blue. Pre-orders are set to begin on September 12, with deliveries from September 19.