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Apple's iPhone 17 lineup launched last month, bringing four new devices to the table. As expected, the series consists of upgrades to past models such as the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max. But this generation is shaking things up by introducing the iPhone Air -- a new addition that Apple says is "the thinnest iPhone ever made." And for the first time in several generations, there will not be a "Plus" model.
Also: I tested the iPhone 17 Pro Max, and this feature alone justifies an upgrade from the 16
Beyond the iPhone Air, the series also brings in sweeping upgrades across the board. The iPhone 17 series will have higher-quality displays, greater overall performance, and refined camera systems for better photography and video capture. Each of the four smartphones shares many of these improvements; however, each one offers its own distinctive features that allow it to stand out from the others.
Interested buyers have plenty of options. This raises the question: which iPhone 17 model is right for you? The answer isn't straightforward since each device offers something unique. So to cut through all the noise, I've broken down the major features of every iPhone 17 option, highlighting the advantages they offer and explaining why you might want to pick one over the others.
You should buy the iPhone 17 if…
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1. You want a ProMotion display without paying Pro model prices.
For the first time, Apple is bringing its ProMotion display technology to a base iPhone. This will allow the iPhone 17 to house a notably vibrant screen with an adaptive refresh rate of up to 120Hz. A feature like this enables "supersmooth scrolling, immersive gaming, improved efficiency." Its glass is protected by Ceramic Shield 2, a new feature that provides better resistance to damage and reduced glare. Another benefit of ProMotion is that it has an adaptive refresh rate of up to 120Hz.
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