Apple unveils new iPhone 17, AirPods Pro 3
Apple’s annual launch event on September 9th, 2025 had some notable, “Awe-Dropping” announcements. The headliner for the event was the brand new iPhone 17 lineup that includes the iPhone 17, the iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, and an ultra-slim iPhone Air.
Upgrades to All iPhones
All models in the Phone 17 lineup have upgraded hardware functionality utilizing an A19 Chip. The base iPhone 17 uses the A19 chip, while the Air, Pro, and Pro Max are powered by the more advanced A19 Pro. They deliver significantly improved performance, efficiency, and battery life, especially in comparison to last year's iPhone 16 lineup, which included the A18 chip.
All iPhone 17 models come equipped with an upgraded front-facing camera. Each features an 18 MP Center Stage front camera with a square sensor that enables a wider field of view, higher resolution, auto-framing during video calls, ultra-stabilized 4K HDR video, and Dual Capture (simultaneous front and rear recording). In comparison, the iPhone 16 only features a 12MP front camera.
In addition, every model benefits from Apple’s new N1 networking chip offering Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread, as well as high-durability Ceramic Shield 2, a 120 Hz ProMotion OLED display with up to 3,000 nits peak brightness, and enhanced visibility outdoors. Preorders start September 12 and are available from September 19.
iPhone 17 Model Specific Upgrades and Comparison
Here's how each of the new iPhone 17 models was upgraded and compared to each other.
iPhone 17
The standard iPhone 17 introduces a slightly larger 6.3-inch display compared to the iPhone 16. It features a 48-megapixel dual-fusion rear camera system that combines a Main and Ultra Wide lens, which is different from the Pro models’ triple-lens setup. A new addition to the front camera experience is the ability to take landscape selfies, alongside Apple’s upgraded Center Stage technology. Battery life also gets a boost, with up to 30 hours of video playback thanks to improved efficiency. Pricing begins at $799.
iPhone Air
The newly branded iPhone Air stands out as a new design experiment and it is Apple's thinnest iPhone yet, measuring just 5.6 mm thin. For context, the standard iPhone 17 is 7.95 mm thick, while last year’s iPhone 16 Pro was 8.25 mm.
Despite its slim form, the Air boasts a titanium frame engineered for extreme bend resistance, ensuring durability doesn’t take a back seat. Apple developed a high-density battery specifically for this model, enabling power efficiency in the ultra-thin chassis. It starts at $999, sitting between the standard iPhone 17 and the Pro line.
iPhone 17 Pro / Pro Max
At the top of the range, the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max deliver serious upgrades tailored to power users and creators. Both models feature a laser-welded vapor-chamber cooling system integrated into a forged aluminum unibody, designed to manage heat during intensive tasks. The camera system leaps with a triple 48-megapixel Fusion array—Main, Ultra Wide, and Long Telephoto—capable of up to 8× optical-quality zoom. For professionals, Apple has added advanced video tools such as ProRes RAW recording, Apple Log 2, and genlock support, elevating the iPhone as a serious filmmaking tool. Pricing begins at $1,099 for the Pro and $1,199 for the Pro Max.
17 Cases and Accessories
For those planning to pick up the iPhone 17, ordering the right case in time is just as important as choosing an upgrade.
Luckily, elago has produced and fitted their most popular MagSafe cases for the entire iPhone 17 lineup.
The classic MagSafe Silicone Case is an affordable option for an Apple-like soft-touch liquid silicone case. Not only are magnets built in for seamless MagSafe charging and accessory pairing, but it is also available in over 30 colors.
In addition to various case options, be sure to check out screen and camera protectors to protect your new upgrade.
AirPods Pro 3
Apple also unveiled the third generation of its in-ear flagship earbuds. The AirPods Pro 3 bring significant upgrades, including the most advanced Active Noise Cancellation yet, redesigned ear tips for improved comfort, and an IP57 rating for better water and sweat resistance. For the first time, Apple has added a built-in heart rate sensor that tracks fitness metrics and syncs directly with the Health app. They also introduce Live Translation, enabling real-time language translation when paired with an iPhone. Battery life delivers up to 8 hours of listening with ANC enabled, up to 6.5 hours when tracking heart rate during workouts, and more than 24 hours with the MagSafe case. Priced at $249, preorders begin September 12 with availability starting September 19.
Because older AirPods Pro cases will not work with the new AirPods Pro 3, you will need to swap out your case if upgrading. Luckily, we upgraded our cases as well and our best-selling reduced yellowing Hybrid Clear Case fit with a carabiner is available in four colorways for the AirPods Pro 3.