The 2025 iPhone generation brings not only new features but also significant improvements in battery performance. The iPhone 17 models, in particular, demonstrate that Apple has noticeably extended the battery life of its devices. Compared directly to the iPhone 16 series, the new models last an average of more than six hours longer. This sends a clear signal to Apple about how important energy efficiency and everyday usability have become.
Battery life is one of the key factors when choosing a smartphone. While the iPhone 16 series already delivered solid results, the iPhone 17 delivers a noticeable leap in performance. Apple itself cites a significant improvement and backs this up with comparative data. The improvement is particularly noticeable in video playback and streaming, reaching up to nine hours in some cases.
Improvements in battery life
The new iPhone 17 models, in all variants, achieve longer battery life than their direct predecessors. The only exception is the iPhone Air, as there is no equivalent model in the iPhone 16 series. The standard iPhone 17 model offers up to 30 hours of video playback and up to 27 hours of streaming. This is eight hours longer than the iPhone 16 for video playback and even nine hours longer than its predecessor for streaming. The complete overview shows the differences in detail:
- iPhone 17: 30 hours of video playback, 27 hours of streaming
- iPhone Air: 27 hours of video playback, 22 hours of streaming
- iPhone 17 Pro: 33 hours of video playback, 30 hours of streaming
- iPhone 17 Pro Max: 39 hours of video playback, 35 hours of streaming
For comparison, the iPhone 16 models:
- iPhone 16: 22 hours of video playback, 18 hours of streaming, 80 hours of audio
- iPhone 16 Plus: 27 hours of video playback, 24 hours of streaming
- iPhone 16 Pro: 27 hours of video playback, 22 hours of streaming
- iPhone 16 Pro Max: 33 hours of video playback, 29 hours of streaming
This means the average improvement is around six hours, with the standard iPhone 17 model making the biggest jump.
Everyday life and usage reality
As with previous generations, Apple emphasizes the phrase "up to." The stated values refer to ideal conditions and serve as a guideline. In practice, actual battery life depends heavily on individual usage. Music streaming, social media, navigation, and gaming all have different impacts on battery life. While most people are unlikely to watch videos continuously for 39 hours, daily use clearly shows that the iPhone 17 models last longer than their predecessors.
Fast charging remains standard
In addition to the improved battery life, the charging speed hasn't changed. Just like the iPhone 16 series, the iPhone 17 models can be charged to 50 percent in just 30 minutes. For everyday use, this means even longer use is no problem, as the device can be quickly recharged.
iPhone 17 sets new standards in battery performance
The iPhone 17 series offers noticeably longer battery life and demonstrates Apple's significant improvements in energy efficiency. With up to 39 hours of video playback and 35 hours of streaming on the Pro Max model, the iPhone 17 sets the standard. A comparison with the iPhone 16, in particular, clearly demonstrates the new generation's clear distinction in terms of battery performance. Those who value long battery life will find the iPhone 17 a compelling advancement. Time for fresh accessories? Visit our Amazon Storefront and discover a wide selection of products from leading manufacturers, including HomeKit-compatible ones! (Image: Apple)
- iPhone 17: Apple introduces groundbreaking security feature
- iPhone 17: Dual Capture Video now directly in the Camera app
- macOS 26 brings repair assistant for calibration & parts
- iPhone Air with C1X modem – faster, more efficient, better
- iPhone 17 Pro uses aluminum – all the reasons in detail
- iPhone 17: N1 chip, more RAM and battery life at a glance
- High blood pressure warnings coming to older Apple Watch models
- AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4 get live translation feature
- MagSafe battery exclusively for iPhone Air – iPhone 17 runs out of power
- New iPhone accessories 2025: cases, bumpers and crossbody
- Final Cut Camera 2.0: All new features at a glance
- iPhone Air battery life: Comparison with iPhone 17 and predecessors
- iPhone 17: There is no longer a SIM slot in these countries
- Apple Watch Series 11: All new features at a glance
- iPhone 17 Pro: New design, A19 Pro chip and 8x zoom
- iPhone Air: The thinnest iPhone with all-day battery life
- iPhone 17 with Center Stage camera and A19 chip introduced
- Apple Watch SE 3 unveiled: Price, features, and availability
- Apple Watch Ultra 3: Innovation meets sustainability
- AirPods Pro 3: Apple's new top model for wireless audio