The iPhone 17 is just around the corner. Like every year, a new iPhone generation is expected in September 2025. Initial analyst reports and leaks already provide a good overview of what Apple is planning for the new iPhone 17 base model. There are no major design changes, but there are a few interesting technical points worth knowing about.
If you're interested in the iPhone 17, you're probably like many others: You want to know if the upgrade is worth it. The information on the new base model is now quite specific. The focus is primarily on technical details such as the chip, RAM, display, and camera.
A18 chip remains – no step backwards, but also no progress
According to a research note by Jeff Pu (GF Securities), the base iPhone 17 model will be equipped with the same A18 chip as the iPhone 16. The chip is based on TSMC's second-generation 3nm (N3E) process. While efficient, it's not revolutionary. While it's a current chip, it's not new flagship silicon—only the Pro series with the A19 Pro and the new iPhone 17 Air with the A19 will get that.
8 GB RAM – decision made against 12 GB
For a long time, it was unclear whether Apple would equip the base model of the iPhone 17 with 8 or 12 GB of RAM. Ming-Chi Kuo reported in April that Apple was considering both options. Now it seems certain: The iPhone 17 will come with 8 GB of RAM – just like its predecessor. This is sufficient for everyday use. The 12 GB will remain reserved for the iPhone 17 Air and the Pro models.
Display gets 120 Hz – a long overdue upgrade
The new display is a clear improvement. Instead of the 60 Hz panel on the iPhone 16, the iPhone 17 will now have a 120 Hz panel. This ensures smoother scrolling, better animation rendering, and an overall more modern user experience. Those who watch a lot of videos or play games will especially notice the difference.
More screen area: 6.3 inches instead of 6.1
There's also a change in size. According to display expert Ross Young, the display will grow to 6.3 inches. By comparison, the iPhone 16 was 6.1 inches. This means a bit more space without significantly increasing the size of the device. For many, this will likely be a welcome upgrade, especially for media consumption.
New front camera with 24 megapixels
Another technical leap concerns the front camera. Instead of 12 megapixels, Apple will install a new 24 megapixel camera. This will provide more detail in selfies and also improve the quality of video calls or portrait shots. Users of social media apps could particularly benefit from this.
Design remains the same – focus is on inner values
Visually, there are little to no changes to the base iPhone 17 model. According to current information, the design remains identical to the iPhone 16. So, anyone hoping for a new casing, different materials, or a redesigned camera module will be disappointed. Apple seems to be prioritizing technical refinements this year.
iPhone 17: Small update with noticeable improvements
The iPhone 17 base model is a solid update. It's not a major revolution, but it's improved in some details. While the A18 chip remains the same as its predecessor, you get noticeable upgrades with the new 120 Hz display, a 24-megapixel front-facing camera, and more screen space at 6.3 inches. 8 GB of RAM remains standard—enough for most users. The design remains the same, which might be a drawback for some. The bottom line is that the iPhone 17 is more of a technical tweak than a fresh start, but it may still be of interest to users of older iPhones. The best products for you: Our Amazon storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Shutterstock / Michael Derrer Fuchs)
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