The iPhone 17 series will be released in September 2025, and Apple fans are eager to see how it compares to the iPhone 16 series from 2024. In this article, we compare everything: design, cameras, performance, and more — so you know exactly what has changed between iPhone 16 and iPhone 17.
Table of Contents
Design and Display
The iPhone 16 series kept Apple’s well-known flat-edged design with a classic square camera module. The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max, however, introduce a wide camera bar design, giving them a striking new identity. Another big change: while the iPhone 16 base models only had 60 Hz displays, the iPhone 17 base model finally gets a 120 Hz OLED display for smoother visuals.
Additionally, all iPhone 17 models feature an improved always-on display that keeps key information like time, notifications, and widgets visible at all times without heavily draining the battery.
The iPhone 16 generation ran on the A18 and A18 Pro chips, which brought solid efficiency improvements. The iPhone 17 upgrades to A19 and A19 Pro — with faster GPUs, better AI integration, and support for Wi-Fi 7. The result: smoother multitasking and faster wireless connections compared to the iPhone 16.
In addition, the new chips deliver improved image processing and energy efficiency, resulting in longer battery life and smoother gaming performance.
Camera Systems
When it comes to cameras, the iPhone 17 stands out significantly compared to the iPhone 16:
- The iPhone 16 base models had a 12 MP ultra-wide camera; the iPhone 17 upgrades to a 48 MP ultra-wide.
- All iPhone 16 models used a 12 MP front camera; the iPhone 17 doubles this to 24 MP.
- The iPhone 16 Pro Max offered 5x telephoto zoom; the iPhone 17 Pro Max is expected to reach up to 8x zoom.
- Video capabilities may also expand: 8K recording on the iPhone 17 Pro models, exceeding the video features of the iPhone 16 Pro.
- New night mode and AI-powered portrait functions provide better shots in difficult lighting conditions.
Battery and Charging
The iPhone 16 supported MagSafe wireless charging up to 15 W. The iPhone 17 extends this with the Qi2 standard at 25 W — faster and more versatile. In addition, the iPhone 17 Pro models are expected to support reverse wireless charging, something the iPhone 16 did not offer.
The battery capacity of the iPhone 17 Pro Max models has also been increased to allow longer video playback and gaming sessions without frequent charging.
Software Experience
The iPhone 16 launched with iOS 25, while the iPhone 17 ships with iOS 26 — featuring the new Liquid Glass design and deeper integration of Apple Intelligence. This makes the iPhone 17 even smarter and more AI-driven compared to the iPhone 16.
iOS 26 also brings enhanced widgets, new privacy features, and personalized AI suggestions that make the user experience even more intuitive.
Comparison Table: iPhone 16 vs. iPhone 17
| Feature |
iPhone 16 (2024) |
iPhone 17 (2025, expected) |
| Line-up |
16 / 16 Plus / 16 Pro / 16 Pro Max |
17 / 17 Air / 17 Pro / 17 Pro Max |
| Chip |
A18 / A18 Pro |
A19 / A19 Pro |
| Display (Base) |
6.1″, 60 Hz |
6.3″, 120 Hz, Always-On Display |
| Front Camera |
12 MP |
24 MP |
| Ultra-wide |
12 MP |
48 MP |
| Telephoto (Pro Max) |
48 MP, 5x Zoom |
48 MP, up to 8x Zoom |
| Charging |
MagSafe 15 W |
MagSafe + Qi2 25 W, Reverse Wireless (Pro) |
| Design |
Square camera island |
Camera bar on Pro, thinner Air model |
| Software |
iOS 25 |
iOS 26 + Apple Intelligence |
The iPhone 17 series offers some new functions and model differences that may appeal to different users:
- iPhone 17: Compact base model with a 6.3″ display, ideal for users who want a sleek design and solid performance. Supports all new iOS 26 features including the always-on display.
- iPhone 17 Air: Replaces the Plus model, featuring a slim titanium body and modern look. Perfect for users who prefer a lighter device. Supports MagSafe and Qi2 charging.
- iPhone 17 Pro: Enhanced camera, faster A19 Pro chip, ProMotion 120 Hz display, 5G optimizations, and advanced video features.
- iPhone 17 Pro Max: Largest model, 8x telephoto zoom, 8K video recording, biggest battery, ideal for power users and gaming fans.
- All models support iOS 26, MagSafe, and Qi2 wireless charging, while Pro models offer extra functions like reverse charging.
- New color options, improved feel, and more durable materials provide a fresh experience compared to iPhone 16.
- The series also introduces new health sensors, AR features, and smart AI functions to make daily life easier.
New Features and Extras
- Always-on display for quick info without unlocking.
- Improved water and dust resistance (IP68+), ideal for outdoor use.
- Extended AR and VR compatibility for games and applications.
- New AI-powered photo and video functions for better shots in all lighting conditions.
- Improved speakers and microphones for clearer audio recordings and better calls.
- Faster Face ID and touch control thanks to optimized sensors.
- New energy-saving modes to extend battery life during heavy use.
FAQ
Is the iPhone 17 really a big upgrade compared to the iPhone 16?
Yes. The iPhone 17 brings 120 Hz displays, new cameras, Qi2 charging, a new Air model, enhanced AR features, and AI integration — features the iPhone 16 didn’t have.
Which iPhone should I buy: iPhone 16 or iPhone 17?
If you want the latest technology, the iPhone 17 is the better choice. If price is more important, the iPhone 16 still delivers strong performance at a lower cost.
Does the iPhone 17 have better cameras than the iPhone 16?
Yes. The iPhone 17 cameras include a 48 MP ultra-wide, a 24 MP front camera, and up to 8x zoom on the Pro Max. The iPhone 16 maxed out at 12 MP ultra-wide, 12 MP front camera, and 5x zoom on the Pro Max.
Is the iPhone 17 faster than the iPhone 16?
The iPhone 17 uses the A19 chip family with better graphics and AI performance, making it faster and more efficient than the A18-powered iPhone 16.
Does the iPhone 17 have better charging than the iPhone 16?
Yes. The iPhone 17 supports Qi2 25 W wireless charging and reverse charging on Pro models. The iPhone 16 only supported MagSafe at 15 W.
Will iOS 26 on the iPhone 17 be very different from iOS 25 on the iPhone 16?
Yes. The iPhone 17 comes with iOS 26 featuring Liquid Glass design, improved AI integration, new widgets, and additional privacy functions.
Is the iPhone 17 Air better than the iPhone 16 Plus?
The iPhone 17 Air is slimmer, lighter, and more advanced than the iPhone 16 Plus — with a thin titanium body, upgraded specs, and a more modern design.
Conclusion
When comparing iPhone 16 and iPhone 17, it’s clear: Apple is delivering one of the biggest upgrades in years. From the brand-new iPhone 17 Air to faster displays, sharper cameras, new features like always-on display and reverse charging, and smarter software — the iPhone 17 is a real leap forward. For anyone considering an upgrade, the differences between iPhone 16 and iPhone 17 are hard to overlook.
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