Apple Unveils iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max: Key Features and Enhancements
Today, Apple unveiled its latest flagship smartphones, the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max, during the “Awe-dropping” event. These models introduced significant updates, especially in camera technology and battery efficiency. Apple claims the iPhone 17 Pro Max boasts the highest battery life seen in any iPhone to date, along with both models equipped with enhanced 48-megapixel sensors in all three rear cameras—a considerable upgrade. Furthermore, advancements in heat management through improved vapor chamber technology enhance the device’s performance. Here’s a comprehensive look at what’s new in the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max.
Design and Display of iPhone 17 Pro
The rear design of the iPhone 17 Pro series now features a “Ceramic Shield” instead of traditional glass, boasting four times greater crack resistance according to Apple. Additionally, the iPhone 17 Pro’s front is shielded with a Ceramic Shield 2 cover, which is claimed to be three times tougher against scratches compared to earlier models.
Both versions of the iPhone 17 Pro flaunt a Super Retina XDR display, measuring 6.3 inches for the Pro and 6.9 inches for the Max. Each screen supports ProMotion technology with refresh rates up to 120Hz, incorporates Always-On Display features, and offers enhanced anti-reflection for reduced glare. It also achieves an impressive peak brightness of 3,000 nits, improving visibility even in bright daylight.
Power of the New A19 Pro Chip
The iPhone 17 Pro series is equipped with the newly developed A19 Pro chip, designed to bolster thermal performance, which effectively extends battery life. Apple utilized the available internal space intelligently, relocating the cameras to a raised area dubbed a “plateau,” allowing for a more substantial battery capacity. In eSIM-only variants, users can enjoy an additional two hours of battery life. Both models are reported to recharge from 0 to 50 percent within just 20 minutes.
The A19 Pro chip is powered by a six-core CPU and a six-core GPU, both featuring neural accelerators that enhance AI processing and gaming graphics. Crucially, these improvements aim to maintain efficiency without overheating. Additionally, the line introduces an N1 chip for superior wireless networking capabilities, providing support for cutting-edge Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6 technology, thereby enhancing features like AirDrop and hotspot functionality.
Cameras on the iPhone 17 Pro
Starting with the front-facing camera, it now features an upgraded 18-megapixel sensor known as the Center Stage camera. Its design allows for different aspect ratios, simplifying landscape selfies without requiring a device rotation. Using AI technologies, it can also autonomously adjust the field of view for group selfies. Video capability is enhanced with ultra-stabilized 4K HDR recording, alongside a unique Dual Capture mode for simultaneous front and rear camera use.
The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max come equipped with three rear cameras, each featuring the 48-megapixel sensors. The new telephoto lens supports an impressive 8x optical zoom—up from the previous generation’s 5x—facilitating clearer images of distant subjects. Additionally, a 40x digital zoom is available, although quality may decrease beyond a certain level. The main camera and ultrawide lens broaden options for macro and wide-ranging shots, delivering versatility for photography enthusiasts.
Video capture capabilities have also seen significant improvements, now supporting ProRes RAW formats, compatible with applications such as Final Cut Camera and Blackmagic Camera. The iPhone 17 Pro series includes genlock functionality to synchronize video across multiple cameras and inputs, a feature valuable to professional videographers. This sync option is supported by the new Blackmagic Design Camera ProDock, sold separately.
Pricing and Availability of iPhone 17 Pro
The iPhone 17 Pro series is available in three color options: deep blue, cosmic orange, and silver. Below are the pricing details for the various models:
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iPhone 17 Pro 256GB: $1,099
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iPhone 17 Pro 512GB: $1,299
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iPhone 17 Pro 1TB: $1,499
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iPhone 17 Pro Max 256GB: $1,199
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iPhone 17 Pro Max 512GB: $1,399
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iPhone 17 Pro Max 1TB: $1,599
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iPhone 17 Pro Max 2TB: $1,999
Pre-orders for both the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max are set to begin on Friday, September 12, with official availability starting a week later on September 19. While many regions will receive eSIM models with a physical SIM slot, the eSIM-only variants will be accessible in select areas such as:
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Bahrain
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Canada
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Guam
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Japan
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Kuwait
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Mexico
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Oman
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Qatar
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Saudi Arabia
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UAE
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United States
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U.S. Virgin Islands
Accessories for the iPhone 17 Pro
Apple has introduced various accessories, including the new “TechWoven” case, a successor to the previously criticized FineWoven case, now discontinued. Apple claims the TechWoven is more resilient to scratches and stains, but reviews will ultimately determine its efficacy. The TechWoven case with MagSafe will retail for $59.
Additional accessories include clear cases ($49), silicone cases with MagSafe functionality ($49), and a Crossbody strap ($59) that permits wearing the iPhone around the neck and is compatible with the TechWoven cases.
Moreover, Apple has made available a 40W Dynamic Power Adapter with a maximum output of 60W for $39, accompanied by a 25W Qi2 certified MagSafe charger priced at $39 for a 1-meter version and $49 for a 2-meter option.
