Apple has unveiled the iPhone 17 series, including the standard iPhone 17, 17 Pro, 17 Pro Max, and the ultra-thin iPhone Air, but without the much-anticipated AI-enabled Siri, which is now expected in 2026. Despite this, the new models bring notable advancements in hardware and camera technology.
The iPhone Air stands as Apple’s slimmest phone ever at just 5.6mm thick, featuring a titanium frame and Ceramic Shield glass for durability. It offers a 6.5-inch Super Retina XDR display with a 120Hz refresh rate and peak brightness of 3,000 nits. Powered by the A19 Pro chip and vapour chamber cooling, it promises 40% faster performance and the longest battery life in an iPhone to date, along with rapid charging capabilities.
The iPhone 17 features a 6.3-inch OLED display with ProMotion at 120Hz and improved brightness. Its camera system is a major step up, with a 48MP main Dual Fusion sensor offering optical 2x zoom, a 48MP Ultra Wide lens, and an 18MP Centre Stage front camera that uses AI for enhanced group selfies and stabilised 4K HDR video recording. Storage starts at 256GB, doubling previous entry-level options.
Powered by the 3-nanometre A19 chip, the iPhone 17 delivers up to 20% faster processing than its predecessor, supports powerful AI functions, and benefits from the efficiency improvements of iOS 26, including an Adaptive Power Mode to prolong battery life up to 30 hours of video playback.
Apple’s delay in launching an AI-enhanced Siri contrasts with competitors like Google, which recently introduced AI features in its Pixel 10. Reports suggest Apple may adopt third-party AI models like Google Gemini to bolster Siri, enabling consumers to enjoy best-in-class AI technology seamlessly integrated with Apple’s ecosystem.
The Pro and Pro Max models elevate performance with the A19 Pro chip, triple 48MP cameras, including a new telephoto lens with up to 8x optical zoom, and advanced video features for professionals.
While Apple’s AI ambitions remain cautious, the iPhone 17 series delivers top-tier hardware improvements and a polished user experience. For now, customers receive exceptional displays, cameras, performance, and battery life, with smarter AI functionality promised on the horizon.