Digimagaz.com – For years, Apple’s standard iPhone was considered the “safe choice” — dependable, but always a step behind the Pro lineup. With the launch of the iPhone 17 in 2025, that gap has narrowed significantly. Starting at $799, the device introduces long-awaited upgrades such as a 120Hz ProMotion display and Apple’s new Center Stage camera, making this the most compelling base iPhone in years.
A Bigger and Smoother Display
The most notable hardware change is the 6.3-inch ProMotion screen, which bridges the size gap between last year’s 6.1-inch iPhone 16 and the larger Plus model. The 120Hz refresh rate previously reserved for Pro editions finally delivers the smooth scrolling and responsive performance that iPhone owners have long requested.
Apple has also boosted peak brightness to 3,000 nits, ensuring visibility even under harsh sunlight, and introduced an always-on display that pairs well with iOS 26’s new notification system. Design-wise, the Dynamic Island remains intact, while new colors such as Lavender, Sage, and Mist Blue freshen up the lineup. Durability also improves with Ceramic Shield 2, which Apple claims is three times stronger than the previous generation.
Cameras Take Center Stage
Apple’s headline feature this year is the 18MP Center Stage front camera, which automatically shifts between portrait and landscape orientations depending on how many people appear in the frame. This makes group selfies and video calls feel more natural, while Dual Capture mode allows simultaneous recording with front and rear cameras — a feature that content creators will appreciate.
On the back, the iPhone 17 carries dual 48MP Fusion lenses for sharper wide and ultra-wide shots, with enhanced texture and improved low-light performance. A new Bright Photographic Style adds vibrancy to images, particularly skin tones. While the iPhone 17 lacks the telephoto lens and advanced ProRAW features of the iPhone 17 Pro, its upgrades represent a significant leap for the base model.
Performance and AI Integration
Powered by Apple’s A19 chip, the iPhone 17 brings improved neural acceleration for AI-driven tasks, though raw CPU and GPU performance remain similar to the iPhone 16. Everyday performance is seamless, and even graphically demanding mobile games run fluidly on the 120Hz display.
Apple Intelligence and third-party AI apps such as ChatGPT now run more efficiently, with minimal heating during multitasking. While the Pro models use the more advanced A19 Pro chip, the iPhone 17 holds its own as a capable flagship for both productivity and entertainment.
iOS 26 Enhancements
Apple’s iOS 26 introduces a bold new look with its Liquid Glass design. While the redesign has received mixed reactions, practical improvements such as Priority Notifications, an upgraded Camera app, and enhanced CarPlay integration stand out. The iPhone 17’s always-on display complements these changes, making key information accessible at a glance.
Battery and Charging
Apple continues to promise “all-day” battery life, estimating up to 30 hours of video playback. In real-world testing, the phone comfortably lasts from early morning to late night under regular use, even with the always-on display enabled. Charging speeds also improve, with 25W MagSafe wireless charging and up to 50% in just 20 minutes via wired fast charging.
How It Stacks Up
Competition at the $799 price point is fierce. Google’s Pixel 10 introduces advanced AI features and a 5x telephoto zoom, while Samsung’s Galaxy S25 offers superior battery life and a powerful new processor. However, Apple’s ecosystem and hardware refinements make the iPhone 17 a more balanced option for most consumers.
Verdict
The iPhone 17 is more than just an incremental update it represents a turning point for Apple’s standard model. With a smoother display, smarter cameras, and meaningful durability improvements, this year’s base iPhone feels less like a compromise and more like a true flagship.
For users coming from older devices, the leap in performance and features will feel transformative. Even iPhone 16 owners will find enough here particularly the 120Hz display and Center Stage camera to justify an upgrade.
Simply put, the iPhone 17 is Apple’s most complete “regular” iPhone to date and the best choice for anyone who doesn’t need the professional-grade tools of the Pro lineup.
