Apple has officially announced the launch of its highly anticipated iPhone 17 series, which will be unveiled at the grand “Awe Dropping” event on September 9, 2025. The lineup is expected to include four models – the standard iPhone 17, the slimmer iPhone 17 Air, the iPhone 17 Pro, and the top-tier iPhone 17 Pro Max.
But here’s where things get interesting: leaks and insider reports suggest that even the standard iPhone 17 is set to receive major upgrades that could leave iPhone 16 buyers disappointed. If the rumors hold true, the upcoming device may finally close the gap between the base and Pro models.
So, what exactly makes the iPhone 17 worth waiting for? Here are five major upgrades that could convince you to skip the iPhone 16 altogether.
1. 120Hz Display at Last
For years, Apple restricted its 120Hz ProMotion display to the Pro models. But this year, the standard iPhone 17 may finally break that barrier. Instead of the usual 60Hz panel, users could enjoy smoother animations, scrolling, and gaming experiences.
2. A Bigger Display Size
The iPhone 16 features a 6.1-inch screen, but the iPhone 17 is rumored to jump to a 6.3-inch panel. This subtle yet noticeable increase not only gives more viewing area but also aligns it closer to last year’s iPhone 16 Pro size.
3. Next-Gen A19 Chipset
Apple’s tradition continues: every new iPhone packs a stronger processor. The iPhone 17 is tipped to launch with the blazing-fast A19 chip, a step above the A18 found in the iPhone 16. Expect performance boosts in gaming, AI features, and overall efficiency.
4. Massive Selfie Camera Upgrade
This one’s a game-changer. Until now, every iPhone – including the iPhone 16 Pro Max – carried a 12MP selfie camera. But leaks suggest the iPhone 17 may jump straight to a 24MP front-facing shooter. Double the resolution means sharper selfies, better low-light shots, and crisper video calls.
5. Fresh Color Options
The iPhone 17 is rumored to launch in Black, White, Pewter Green, Green, Pink, and Light Blue. Compared to the iPhone 16 lineup (Teal, Ultramarine, Pink, White, and Black), Apple seems to be refreshing the color palette with softer and trendier tones.
📌 The Big Question
With these five upgrades, Apple is clearly positioning the iPhone 17 as a major leap forward, not just an incremental upgrade. If you’ve been eyeing the iPhone 16, you might want to hold back a few weeks and see whether the leaks about the iPhone 17 turn out to be true.
Because one thing is certain: September 9 could bring surprises that make the iPhone 17 the most tempting “non-Pro” upgrade in years.