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The iPhone 17 has emerged as the clear frontrunner in Apple’s current lineup, offering a compelling blend of high-end features and reasonable pricing that positions it as the model most consumers should genuinely consider. While lacking the “Pro” designation, the device includes long-requested upgrades that make it a truly satisfying and future-proof purchase.
Unprecedented Display Fluidity
The most significant and long-overdue enhancement is the inclusion of 120Hz ProMotion display technology on the standard iPhone 17. Previously restricted to the more premium Pro models, this feature delivers an exceptionally fluid and smooth user experience. Simple actions like scrolling through websites or navigating the iOS interface are noticeably snappier compared to older 60Hz displays, making the overall experience feel dramatically more modern.
Running on the new iOS 26, the device also brings a new level of customization. The Lock Screen is particularly enhanced, allowing users to set a dynamic photo shuffle and utilizing a clever depth effect that makes the wallpaper appear three-dimensional. The software is also smart enough to adjust the clock’s size to prevent it from obscuring the main subject of a chosen photograph, adding a highly personal touch.
Low-Light Photography Powerhouse
The dual-camera system on the iPhone 17 is a formidable piece of hardware. While the Pro models feature a triple-lens array, the standard model excels where it matters most: low-light performance. The 48MP main sensor is adept at capturing bright, detailed images in near darkness without needing lengthy exposure times. It successfully competes with major rivals in the segment, such as the Samsung Galaxy S25 and the Google Pixel 10, when shooting in challenging environments.
However, the photography experience is not perfect for advanced users. The dedicated Camera Control feature, which uses simple gestures for mode and zoom switching, still lacks proper manual controls for essential settings like shutter speed, ISO, and focus. This limitation can be frustrating for enthusiasts attempting more technical shots, such as night-sky or long-exposure photography.
Apple Intelligence and Value Proposition
Apple’s integration of its proprietary “Apple Intelligence” features in iOS 26, such as live translation within messages and calls, is a step forward. Yet, in the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence, the iPhone 17’s AI capabilities feel somewhat static compared to competitors. Rivals are rapidly pushing out advanced, complex AI-powered photo editing and time-saving tools, an area where Apple’s offering currently appears to be moving more slowly.
Ultimately, the iPhone 17 hits the sweet spot in Apple’s device ecosystem. The successor to the budget SE line, the iPhone 16e, saw a price increase that reduced its appeal as a bargain device. On the premium side, the new ultra-thin iPhone Air is costly and makes trade-offs in its feature set. Starting at a competitive price point while offering more base storage than rivals, the standard iPhone 17 delivers the most substantial upgrades and the most comprehensive user experience, all without carrying the Pro-level price tag. It is, quite simply, the best overall value in the current generation.
