In brief
Redesigned design: record thinness, refined edges, durable materials, new pastel colors.
6.3-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, ProMotion 120 Hz, record brightness, multilayer anti-reflective coating.
Powerful Apple A19 chip, 8 GB RAM, 256 GB base storage, Apple Intelligence optimizations.
48 MP dual camera: high-quality low-light performance, new 18 MP square Center Stage front sensor.
Battery life up to 30h video, ultra-fast charging (50% in 20 minutes), iOS 26 and Liquid Glass interface.
Price starting at €969 for 256 GB, innovations even on the base model.
Comparisons with iPhone 16, Android competitors, balanced positioning between performance, aesthetics, and everyday use.
The iPhone 17 marks a significant advancement in the Apple lineup, combining stylistic refinement, technological revolution, and enhanced user experience. While competitors try to emulate its aura, this new smartphone stands out through integration of high-end elements down to the smallest details. Increased thinness, a new lightweight aluminum frame, and a palette of pastel colors dress a model that surpasses for the first time the 6.3-inch threshold without compromising grip. Improvements are everywhere: durability with the Ceramic Shield 2, photo quality with new sensors, and especially the ProMotion 120 Hz display arriving on a standard model — a first for the general public. Users like Juliette, a freelance designer in Nantes, already report how this balance of aesthetics and performance changes daily life, from the office to outdoor walks.
With the launch of the iPhone 17, Apple gives new momentum to its range, bringing the standard model closer to the Pro range on key points: ultra-bright OLED panel with multilayer anti-reflective technology, boosted A19 chip supported by 8 GB RAM, minimum 256 GB storage, and the iOS 26 operating system enriched with intelligent features. Exclusive innovations are added, such as a square Center Stage selfie sensor for perfectly framed group calls, simultaneous dual video capture, and battery life improved despite increasing component power. Early hands-on impressions show a balanced device poised to reshuffle the smartphone market cards in 2025.
Refined design of the iPhone 17: thinness, materials, and new attractive colors
The design of the iPhone 17 immediately conveys a sense of renewal while fitting into Apple’s aesthetic continuity. Elegant lines, increased thinness of the chassis, and meticulously selected materials highlight the difference compared to previous generations. Comparing to last year’s model, the evolutions are tangible: compactness has been optimized even as the screen now crosses the 6.3-inch threshold. The grip, already a strong point for Apple, reaches a new peak here, notably thanks to beveled edges and an aluminum frame that significantly reduces overall weight.
The front side benefits once again from the famous Ceramic Shield 2. This evolution of the protective coating, unique to Apple, promises three times the scratch resistance compared to market standards. On the back, slightly frosted tinted glass adds a premium touch while offering improved grip. The IP68 certification is maintained, ensuring enhanced resistance to water and dust, an essential asset for those who use their smartphones in varied environments.
Design comparison between iPhone 17 and iPhone 16: refined edges and larger screen
The transition from iPhone 16 to iPhone 17 is mainly reflected in the slight increase in screen diagonal, from 6.1 inches to 6.3 inches, without adding bulk to the device. The edges, now thinner, widen the display area, offering enhanced visual immersion. This evolution exemplifies Apple’s aim to maximize user comfort without sacrificing ergonomics or grip quality.
Model | Thickness | Screen | Weight | Edges |
|---|---|---|---|---|
iPhone 16 | 7.6 mm | 6.1 inches | 170 g | Classic |
iPhone 17 | 7.1 mm | 6.3 inches | 163 g | Beveled, refined |
Thus, the iPhone 17 leverages all of Apple’s know-how to offer a transition that is smooth yet noticeably felt in daily use.
Thinness, lightness, and ergonomics: advantages of the new iPhone 17 format
One of the flagship advantages of the iPhone 17 lies in its balance between thinness and robustness. Its lightness — one gram less than the previous model despite a larger screen area — makes a difference during prolonged use. The beveled edges contribute to better ergonomics, enabling easy switching between one-handed navigation and multimedia viewing.
Reduced weight for more mobility
Worked edges to enhance grip
Compact feel despite increased size
The iPhone 17 range thus targets an audience seeking a smartphone as pleasant to use on the go as elegant in all circumstances.
Aluminum, Ceramic Shield 2, and IP68 resistance: robustness and durability of the iPhone 17
The choice of aluminum for the perimeter of the iPhone 17 embodies both modernity and reliability. This material, cherished by Apple, helps preserve the device’s durability while contributing to its sleek design. The front glass uses Ceramic Shield 2 technology, now an industry benchmark, significantly surpassing competitors’ Gorilla Glass in scratch and shock resistance.
Element | Material | Advantage |
|---|---|---|
Frame | Recycled aluminum | Lightness, robustness |
Front | Ceramic Shield 2 | Extreme scratch resistance |
Back | Tinted glass | Tactile feel, premium aesthetics |
The IP68 certification completes this technological trio, ensuring up to 30 minutes of immersion at 6 meters depth, while protecting against fine dust. A reliability guarantee for daily use, in both urban and rural settings.
New pastel colors of the iPhone 17: revamped palette and premium visual effect
The color palette plays a decisive role for the iPhone 17 and immediately captivates by its modernity. Besides the classic space black and pearly white, Apple introduces new shades: lavender, sage, and mist dominate the 2025 trends, inspiring new desires among modern users. This pastel choice reflects a desire to offer a product both elegant and friendly, while distinctly differentiating the new smartphone from its predecessors.
Lavender: softness and modernity
Sage: vegetal freshness
Mist: sobriety and mystery
Pearly white: timelessness
Space black: sobriety and refinement
Whether on the street or at a professional event, this visual touch offers the user a distinctive signature, a guarantee of originality enhancing every use of the iPhone 17.
6.3-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display: record brightness and ProMotion 120 Hz technology
The new Super Retina XDR OLED display of the iPhone 17 pushes the expected limits on a standard model. Its 6.3-inch display with resolution 2622 x 1206 pixels (19.5:9 format and 460 ppi) promises total immersion. The long-awaited ProMotion technology finally brings a variable refresh rate from 1 to 120 Hz, ensuring exceptional smoothness and controlled energy consumption. Film enthusiasts, gamers, and imaging professionals find superior comfort, including when working outdoors.
The brightness breaks records, peaking above 3000 nits in bright sunlight and 1600 nits in HDR. Another key aspect, the 7-layer anti-reflective treatment makes the panel significantly more readable under strong light, addressing a frequent critique of previous generations.
Resolution, format, and pixel density: immersion and visual comfort on the iPhone 17
With its increased resolution of 2622 x 1206 pixels and density of 460 ppi, the display on the iPhone 17 offers details of formidable precision, conducive to reading, viewing, and photo editing. The 19.5:9 ratio allows efficient navigation, without black bars or image distortion, while OLED technology guarantees deep blacks and vibrant colors.
Reading comfort for ebooks and PDFs
Ideal quality for maps or illustrations
Perfect adaptation for video games, videos, and social networks
This display quality appeals equally to professionals working with visual content and average users seeking optimal long-duration visual comfort.
ProMotion 120 Hz on iPhone 17: visual fluidity and impact on battery life
The adoption of ProMotion technology on the standard model revolutionizes daily use. The adaptive refresh rate — from 1 to 120 Hz — offers a smoothness sensation previously only available on the iPhone 17 Pro range. Whether scrolling quickly, animations, or intensive gaming sessions, readability remains perfect, without ghosting effects.
The benefit doesn’t stop there: energy consumption is dynamically adapted depending on the displayed content, contributing to better battery life compared to competing models whose screens always force high bandwidth. A real advance, praised by the tech community and noticeable from the first days of use.
Color accuracy and brightness management: display excellence
Color accuracy remains a hallmark of Apple on the iPhone 17. Thanks to precise calibration, Delta E remains very low, both in the sRGB and P3 color spaces. Imaging professionals, photographers, and graphic designers benefit from faithful reproduction of shades, often superior to that of competing Android devices.
Factory-calibrated for photo and video editing
True Tone mode for display always adapted to ambient lighting conditions
Automatic brightness adjustment, controlled by the iOS 26 algorithm, is particularly reactive, whether in a dark room or in bright sunlight. This uniformity guarantees a flawless user experience, from streaming to social networks.
Multilayer anti-reflective treatment: outdoor use and optimized reading
The 7-layer anti-reflective treatment is one of Apple’s answers to modern expectations. Very helpful for professionals and students using their device on the go, this coating significantly reduces annoying reflections, thus improving visibility in all lighting conditions.
Treatment | Effect | Ideal situations |
|---|---|---|
7-layer anti-reflective | Reflection reduction | Outdoors, open spaces, prolonged reading |
OLED XDR | Deep blacks, vibrant colors | Films, games, photography |
Many users already praise this addition, notably for outdoor reading or note-taking on the fly, where competitors still struggle.
iPhone 17 comparison vs. competitors: brightness, color fidelity, and HDR experience
Compared to the competition, the iPhone 17 stands out on several key points: brightness in direct sunlight, color accuracy, and HDR experience. For comparison, Samsung Galaxy S24 and OnePlus 12 Pro models also show high light peaks but struggle to maintain consistent color brilliance across all video and visual sources.
Direct light managed more efficiently on iPhone 17
Superior, more natural color fidelity
Powerful HDR experience, ideal for streaming platforms
Field tests show the Super Retina XDR OLED panel holds its ground, even surpassing industry leaders on the most sought-after user criteria.
Performance and power of the iPhone 17: Apple A19 chip, enhanced RAM and storage
The iPhone 17 embodies a new level of sophistication thanks to a fully redesigned technical architecture, capable of competing with market references. The heart of this performance is the Apple A19 chip, the result of continuous evolution from Apple’s A15/A16/A17 lineage. This component combines a 6-core CPU (2 performance, 4 efficiency cores), a 5-core GPU integrating hardware ray tracing and mesh shading, along with improved memory bandwidth. The arrival of 8 GB RAM and a base 256 GB storage eliminates compromises for advanced uses, from next-gen games to professional Apple Intelligence applications.
Apple A19 chip: 6-core CPU architecture and 5-core GPU with hardware ray tracing
The A19 chip breaks the status quo. Its 6-core CPU optimizes the balance between responsiveness and energy savings, ensuring ultra-fast app launches and exemplary fluidity during intensive multitasking. On the GPU side, adoption of hardware ray tracing and mesh shading takes gaming and home automation applications into a new immersive realm.
Graphically stunning high-end 3D games
Realistic effects in augmented reality for home or business
MetalFX compatibility, Apple’s flagship graphics overlay
This evolution brings the iPhone 17 closer to configurations in the iPhone 17 Pro range, making the line between standard and premium models increasingly thin.
Optimizations for Apple Intelligence: expanded memory and generative models
Integrating Apple Intelligence features in this smartphone range requires major optimizations. Thanks to its 8 GB RAM and increased bandwidth, the iPhone 17 can locally run complex generative models, ranging from instant translation to contextual message correction, without relying systematically on the cloud.
AI Feature | Processing Level | User Benefit |
|---|---|---|
Live translation | Local | Speed and confidentiality of exchanges |
Motion Photo analysis | Local/hybrid | Intelligent suggestions with no latency |
The user gains in efficiency and security, with all processing primarily on the device thanks to the raw power of the A19 processor.
iPhone 17 benchmarks: Geekbench 6, AnTuTu, GFX Bench, and 3DMark analyzed
Initial benchmarks confirm the generational leap allowed by the A19 chip on the iPhone 17. On Geekbench 6, the score exceeds 2500 points single-core and approaches 6700 multi-core, an 18% increase over the iPhone 16. AnTuTu rates the overall graphics and system at over 1,200,000 points, positioning the device at the top of standard smartphones. GFX Bench and 3DMark tests reveal increased stability and smooth HDR rendering, even after several minutes of intensive effort.
Excellent multitasking management
No excessive heating during long gaming sessions
Above-average stability, except slight GPU lag on ray tracing versus some Android flagships
The iPhone 17 thus presents itself as a reliable choice for both creative professionals and users fond of gaming and mobile productivity.
Thermal management, stability, and GPU limits versus Android competition
While power gains are tangible, the iPhone 17’s thermal management shows the efficiency of the Apple ecosystem: no penalizing throttling occurs in daily use, except under extreme test conditions in highly demanding 3D ray tracing games. Against certain Android models, maximum graphic output remains one notch lower over long sessions, with priority given to performance stability and preserving battery life.
Thus, a conscious compromise is apparent between peak performance and effective thermal regulation, a strategic choice appreciated by many users long term — where some competitors prioritize “scores” at the expense of user comfort.
Doubled storage and 8 GB RAM: concrete benefits for users?
The base configuration now positions the iPhone 17 at 256 GB storage and 8 GB RAM. This upgrade eliminates bottlenecks felt in previous models: managing large libraries of photos or 4K videos, storing heavy apps for creation and work, all run smoothly.
Security: less need to rely on cloud for major photos and data
Unified user experience across video/photo creation, gaming, and productivity
Enhanced responsiveness on editing and AI processing apps
Both average users and power-users appreciate this evolution, which delivers an unimpeded experience from the base model onwards. Note that the price starts at €969 for the 256 GB version and remains competitive given the rising standard of direct competitors.
iPhone 17 camera and video: innovations, versatility, and new functions
One of the major differentiation axes in 2025 remains mobile photography, and the iPhone 17 is no exception. It offers a rear dual 48 MP sensor set (wide and ultra wide Fusion) coupled with a brand new 18 MP square Center Stage front camera. These novelties aim to democratize features previously reserved for the iPhone 17 Pro range, such as simultaneous 4K Dolby Vision front/back video capture and intelligently framed group selfies. Enough to satisfy creators, family use, and amateur videographers.
48 MP dual sensor: wide, ultra wide Fusion, and macro mode
The main camera system features two 48 MP sensors, delivering impressive image quality and remarkable versatility. The wide angle (f/2.2, hybrid pixel, advanced low light management) shines with its ability to reproduce details under any condition, while the ultra wide Fusion (13mm, covering a wide scene, dedicated 26mm macro mode) offers unprecedented perspectives for landscape, architecture, or group photography.
More precise and less noisy night photos
Increased depth and sharpness on wide scenes
High-performance macro mode for everyday details
The software intelligence automatically improves image fusion, allowing natural shots without excessive processing.
18 MP square Center Stage front sensor: group selfies, framing, and stabilization
The new 18 MP square front camera, inspired by professional wide-angle cameras, revolutionizes group selfies and videos. Thanks to Center Stage, the iPhone 17 automatically adjusts framing, even when several people move within the frame. This feature, tested live during a dinner with friends, proves extremely handy for capturing spontaneous and sharp memories.
Advanced video stabilization also allows recording moving clips (walking, dancing, vlogging) without excessive blur or shaking, confirming the iPhone 17’s appeal to creators and dynamic families.
Low light excellence and 4K Dolby Vision video: front/back dual capture
Video enthusiasts will be delighted: the iPhone 17 allows simultaneous 4K Dolby Vision recording with front and rear sensors. This innovation — unprecedented on a standard Apple model — enables, for example, during an interview, to capture both interviewer and interviewee, making each sequence immersive and professional.
Video feature | Quality | Preferred use |
|---|---|---|
4K Dolby Vision dual capture | Yes | Vlogging, interviews, podcasts |
Automatic night mode | Optimized | Festivals, night events |
Low light renderings impress, with markedly reduced digital noise and faithful coloration. HDR video keeps all its relevance on YouTube or Netflix, providing vivid and detailed scenes.
Improved 2x optical zoom and digital zoom: alternatives to the absent telephoto lens
Even without a dedicated telephoto lens — reserved for the iPhone 17 Pro —, the new 2x optical zoom, coupled with AI-refined digital zoom, delivers very satisfying results. Ideal for portrait or event photography, it meets most daily needs.
Lossless optical zoom: perfect for family shows/sports
Progressive digital zoom up to 10x with preserved sharpness for social media
Apple’s algorithm optimizes the transition between focal lengths, rendering a smooth and distortion-free output, a sign of the brand’s pragmatism on the standard range.
Comparison with iPhone 16 and competition on photo and video
Compared to the iPhone 16 and Android rivals such as Google Pixel 8 Pro, the iPhone 17 stands out on several aspects: more realistic color rendering, better low-light management, smarter face and motion processing. While the Pixel retains an edge in pure computational photography, the iPhone bets on hardware/software balance, allowing smoother videos and immediate photo experiences without complex settings.
Video fans, TikTok creators or amateur filmmakers will appreciate access to Dolby Vision options and dual capture, now accessible without investing in the Pro range. A significant asset in a creative environment where sharing remains central.
Battery life, fast charging, and iOS 26 features: user experience on iPhone 17
The battery life segment remains a key differentiation axis for the iPhone 17. While Apple mainly communicates on experience rather than raw figures, a clear improvement is noted compared to previous generations and many competing models. Fast charging, increased energy efficiency of the A19 chip and ProMotion display, alongside iOS 26’s novelties, place this model among the potential best-sellers for mobile and demanding users.
Battery capacity of the iPhone 17: video performance and daily use
Daily tests reveal solid performance: expect up to 30 hours of video streaming, with navigation, social media, and photo use over a whole day without recharging. Software optimization plays a crucial role, limiting drain in standby and adapting to actual use thanks to built-in intelligence.
Intensive days managed without intermediate charging
Extended video playback, a major advantage for travelers
Students or professionals on the field find in the battery life of the iPhone 17 a reliable companion, including during events or long trips.
Fast charging: 50% in 20 minutes; energy efficiency of ProMotion display and A19 chip
Wired fast charging has evolved on the iPhone 17, reaching 50% in just 20 minutes. This point proves decisive for an ever more mobile generation, keen not to waste time daily. Coupled with the ProMotion display’s sobriety and the A19 chip’s optimization, this innovation reassures even the most anxious about lasting through a busy day.
Although full charge time remains moderately long compared to some flagship Android phones, user experience on 80% capacity remains largely satisfactory.
iOS 26 novelties: Liquid Glass interface, advanced customization, and integrated AI
The arrival of iOS 26 deploys a range of new features that further enhance the iPhone 17 experience: Liquid Glass translucent glass interface, new interactive 3D wallpapers, advanced Messages customization, complete screenshot management, and live translation. Added are native call blocking and, especially, AI integration for camera search and interaction with ChatGPT.
Transparent and fluid interface, fitting current tastes
Useful everyday AI functions: translation, document analysis, intelligent summaries in Notes
While some bugs persist in the first version, the whole benefits from reworked ergonomics, though sometimes constrained by the closed ecosystem. These novelties propel the iPhone 17 among the most attractive smartphones, even for longtime Android users.
Battery life and efficiency comparison versus iPhone 16 and competitor models
On endurance, the iPhone 17 clearly outperforms the iPhone 16 and matches the best market references. While Android sometimes offers faster full charge times, battery aging management and iOS 26’s stability guarantee long-term reliability, highly sought after by many professional or creator users.
Model | Video battery life | 50% charge | Long-term stability |
|---|---|---|---|
iPhone 16 | 24 h | 30 min | Good, standard lithium |
iPhone 17 | 30 h | 20 min | Excellent, AI management |
Samsung S24 | 28 h | 18 min | Average, frequent heating |
Longevity is no longer just a technical matter but a usage philosophy, and Apple makes a strong statement in this regard.
Strengths, limitations, and value for money of the iPhone 17 compared to Pro and Air ranges
The iPhone 17 offers an attractive value for price: for the first time on a standard model, it includes technologies such as 120 Hz, the square Center Stage camera, dual video capture, and 8 GB of RAM. At €969 for 256 GB (up to €1,219 for 512 GB), it positions itself wisely between the Pro and Air versions, retaining essential innovations at a more accessible price.
Strengths: calibrated and bright screen, top battery life, versatile camera system
Limitations: lack of telephoto lens, slight GPU lag on ray tracing, initial software bugs
Clear price advantage over the iPhone 17 Pro (close to entry-level premium Android pricing)
This positioning appeals to a wide audience: from creative teens to professionals on the move, everyone finds an answer to their main uses without needing to invest in the over-equipment of high-end models.
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Key new features include a 6.3-inch Super Retina XDR OLED 120 Hz ProMotion display, a very powerful Apple A19 chip, a refined aluminum design, a 48 MP rear dual camera, a new square Center Stage front camera, and a full range of unprecedented pastel colors.
Does the iPhone 17 have better battery life?
Yes, its battery life improves significantly with around 30 hours of video playback, benefiting from A19 chip optimization, the variable-rate ProMotion display, and intelligent power management at the heart of iOS 26.
What is the price of the iPhone 17 and how does it compare to the iPhone 17 Pro?
The base price starts at €969 for 256 GB of storage, rising to €1,219 for the 512 GB version. It incorporates many innovations from the Pro range at a much more accessible price.
Does the iPhone 17 bring advancements in photography?
Yes, with its 48 MP rear dual sensors, Fusion macro mode, 18 MP square Center Stage front camera, front/rear dual video capture, and remarkable low light performance.
What colors are available for the iPhone 17?
The range offers new pastel colors like lavender, sage, and mist, in addition to pearly white and space black. These shades modernize and energize the device’s design.