iPhone 17 Features: Top 10 Things You’ll Actually Care About
Apple’s iPhone 17 line (including the new iPhone base, Pro and Pro Max) isn’t just an incremental update, it brings some big feature upgrades and tweaks that most users will actually see and use every day. In this blog, we’ll run through the top 10 iPhone 17 features that aren’t fluff. Whether you're snapping photos, streaming, using apps or just want a phone that keeps up, these are the improvements you'll care about.
iPhone 17 Features: Top 10 You’ll Actually Care About
1. ProMotion Comes to Everyone
- For the first time, every iPhone 17 model comes with a 120 Hz ProMotion display and an always-on screen. Previously, only Pro models had this smooth refresh rate. You’ll notice the difference instantly: scrolling through Instagram feels fluid, games look sharper, and the overall UI feels more responsive.
- The always-on feature is also useful, glance down and you’ll see the time, notifications, or widgets without tapping the screen. It’s the sort of change you don’t realise you wanted until you have it.
2. A Bigger Screen on the Standard Model
- The base iPhone 17 has grown slightly, from 6.1 inches on the iPhone 16 to 6.3 inches. It doesn’t sound dramatic, but that extra real estate makes reading, gaming, or watching films more enjoyable. You’re not sacrificing portability either, the phone still slips easily into a pocket or bag.
- For buyers who skipped the iPhone 16 Pro purely for its display upgrades, this closes the gap considerably.
3. Sharper Selfies with Centre Stage
- Apple has given the iPhone 17 a new 18 MP front camera, up from 12 MP on the iPhone 16. It also adds Centre Stage, which was previously exclusive to iPads. This feature automatically keeps you framed during FaceTime calls or when recording video, even if you move around.
- For content creators, vloggers, or anyone who lives on video calls, this is a big quality-of-life improvement. Selfies are sharper, group shots fit more people in, and calls feel more natural.
4. Dual 48 MP Rear Cameras on Non-Pro Models
- Another meaningful upgrade is that the standard iPhone 17 now includes two 48 MP rear cameras which is main and an ultra-wide. Older non-Pro iPhones paired one high-resolution sensor with a weaker 12 MP lens.
- With dual 48 MP shooters, every photo mode benefits from more detail, better low-light performance, and richer colour accuracy. You don’t need to buy the Pro to get great photography anymore, though the Pro models still bring the best zoom.
5. Faster, Smarter A19 Chips
- The iPhone 17 runs on the new A19 chip, while the base, Pro, and Pro Max models get the A19 Pro. These processors enable Apple Intelligence features in iOS 26, improve efficiency, and deliver smoother gaming.
- Even if you’re not a “power user,” the benefit is clear because apps open faster, the phone runs cooler, and you’ll get more years of software updates compared to older models.
6. A Brand-New N1 Wireless Chip
- Wireless is one of those things you rarely think about until it fails. The iPhone 17 introduces a new N1 chip supporting Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread.
- For you, that means faster streaming, more stable connections, and better smart-home integration. AirDrop reliability improves, multiplayer gaming feels smoother, and pairing accessories is quicker. This is a behind-the-scenes upgrade with everyday impact.
7. Tougher Glass and Brighter Displays
- Apple has upgraded durability with Ceramic Shield 2 glass. Combined with slimmer bezels and peak brightness around 3,000 nits, the iPhone 17 is both sturdier and easier to read in bright sunlight.
- If you’ve ever struggled to see your screen outdoors, this matters. And if you’ve ever dropped your phone (let’s, be honest: we all have), you’ll appreciate the extra protection.
8. Better Battery Life and More Storage
- Battery life has been a long-standing worry for iPhone users. The iPhone 17 addresses this with bigger batteries and more efficient chips. Apple rates the standard iPhone 17 at up to 30 hours of video playback, while the Pro Max pushes close to 39 hours.
- On top of that, base storage has finally doubled to 256 GB. No more juggling apps and photos on a cramped 128 GB model. For most users, 256 GB is the perfect sweet spot.
9. USB-C & Improved Port / Accessory Compatibility
With USB-C becoming the standard, iPhone 17 joins the trend, offering better compatibility with universal chargers and faster data transfer in higher-end models. Accessories and external devices work more seamlessly. For users with Macs, iPads, or USB-C hubs, this helps simplify your setup.
10. Pro-Level Camera & Video Tools
- For those who want the best, the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max offer triple 48 MP cameras, stronger telephoto zoom (up to 8× optical), and advanced video features. A new vapor-chamber cooling system keeps them stable during long recording sessions.
- If you create content, edit video on your phone, or just want the sharpest zoom shots, these are the iPhones to beat. The Pro Max even goes up to 2 TB storage, enough for filmmakers on the go.
Bonus Features Worth Mentioning
- New designs and colours, including subtle tweaks to the Pro camera “plateau” housing.
- Improved thermal performance on Pro models, so they stay cooler under heavy loads.
Pros and Cons of iPhone 17
|
Pros |
Cons |
|
ProMotion 120 Hz and always-on display for every model |
USB-C limited to USB 2.0 speeds on non-Pro models |
|
Sharper front (18 MP) and rear (dual 48 MP) cameras |
iPhone base model has a smaller battery compared to Pro/Pro Max |
|
Bigger 6.3-inch screen on the base iPhone 17 |
Higher launch prices vs discounted iPhone 16 series |
|
Longer battery life across the range (up to 39 hrs on Pro Max) |
|
|
More durable design with Ceramic Shield 2 and brighter displays (up to 3,000 nits) |
|
|
Doubled base storage (now starts at 256 GB) |
Final Recommendation
The iPhone 17 features list isn’t just marketing spin; these are real upgrades you’ll notice in daily life. From smoother screens and better selfies to stronger wireless and longer battery, Apple has finally brought Pro-tier experiences to every model.
- Pick the iPhone 17 if you want balance and value.
- Pick the Pro if you want advanced cameras and faster data speeds.
- Pick the Pro Max if you need the ultimate in battery, display, and storage.
Ready to upgrade? Explore the iPhone 17 range today and choose the model that matches your lifestyle.
FAQs
When does the iPhone 17 launch in the UK?
Pre-orders open on 12 September 2025, with release on 19 September.
How much does the iPhone 17 cost?
The standard iPhone 17 starts at £799 for 256 GB. The Pro at £1,099, and the Pro Max at £1,199.
Do all iPhone 17 models have ProMotion now?
Yes, every iPhone 17 comes with a 120 Hz display and always-on mode.
Will features like 120Hz display and USB-C be available on all models?
Yes, 120Hz across the lineup is a major shift. USB-C is confirmed, though transfer speeds and port features may vary between baseand Pro models.
Which iPhone 17 model has the best battery life?
The iPhone 17 Pro Max leads, with up to 39 hours of video playback.
Bottom Line
The iPhone 17 features that matter most include: 120 Hz ProMotion displays on every model, larger screens, a sharper 18 MP front camera with Centre Stage, dual 48 MP rear cameras on the standard iPhone 17, faster A19/A19 Pro chips, a new N1 wireless chip with Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6, brighter 3,000-nit displays with tougher glass, bigger batteries with up to 39 hours runtime, doubled base storage at 256 GB, and Pro-level triple 48 MP cameras with enhanced zoom. These upgrades deliver smoother performance, sharper photos, better connectivity, and longer life you’ll actually notice every day.
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