Apple‘s yearly iPhone launches are among the most anticipated events in the tech world. With the iPhone 16 series expected to hit the market later this year and early leaks for the iPhone 17 already making headlines, fans and tech enthusiasts alike are eager to see how the two models stack up.
In this detailed comparison of iPhone 17 vs iPhone 16, we break down all the major differences based on credible leaks, insider reports, and Apple’s recent design trends. From display changes to chipset upgrades and potential AI innovations, this article gives you a comprehensive view of what to expect.
Design and Build
iPhone 17 Design: A Sleeker, Slimmer Future
According to renowned Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo and leaker Ross Young, the iPhone 17 Pro Max (or Ultra) is expected to undergo a major design overhaul. One of the most discussed rumours is the introduction of a new “iPhone 17 Slim,” potentially replacing the Pro Max model. This model could feature the thinnest chassis ever seen on an iPhone, possibly crafted from titanium or a new composite material to retain durability without increasing weight.
Other notable design changes include:
- A centred rear camera module for better symmetry.
- Thinner bezels, especially on the Pro models.
- A redesigned Face ID system is possibly placed under the display.
iPhone 16 Design: Familiar but Functional Changes
The iPhone 16 series isn’t without its updates either. Leaks suggest the Pro models will retain the titanium frame introduced with the iPhone 15 Pro, but with larger displays:
- iPhone 16 Pro: 6.3 inches (up from 6.1)
- iPhone 16 Pro Max: 6.9 inches (up from 6.7)
Additionally, the vertical camera layout seen in the iPhone 12 is reportedly making a return for base models, and a new Capture Button (solid-state haptic) could be introduced to improve video recording ergonomics.
Verdict: The iPhone 17 is expected to deliver more radical design changes compared to the incremental improvements of the iPhone 16.
Display Technology
iPhone 17 Display Leaks: Better Visuals and Efficiency
Apple is rumoured to be working with suppliers like Samsung and LG on a next-generation LTPO OLED panel for all iPhone 17 models, not just the Pros. This move could finally bring ProMotion (120Hz refresh rate) to the base models.
Key iPhone 17 display upgrades:
- Thinner bezels
- Brighter peak HDR brightness
- Better power efficiency
- Potential support for under-display Face ID on Pro models
iPhone 16 Display Specs: Bigger Screens, ProMotion Still Exclusive
The iPhone 16 series will reportedly increase screen size for Pro models but maintain the 60Hz refresh rate for the base models. Expect:
- OLED displays across the range
- 120Hz ProMotion on iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max
- Same resolution as iPhone 15
Verdict: iPhone 17 may close the gap between base and Pro models in terms of display features.
Performance and Chipset
iPhone 17: Powered by the Apple A19 or A18 Pro
While naming conventions are still fluid, early reports suggest that the iPhone 17 Pro models could debut the Apple A19 Pro chip, built on a 2nm TSMC process. This will offer significant performance and efficiency improvements over the A18 chips.
Rumoured capabilities:
- Boosted CPU and GPU performance
- Advanced Neural Engine for AI tasks
- Enhanced thermal management
- Better battery optimization
With Apple investing heavily in on-device AI, the A19 chip is expected to play a key role in supporting Generative AI features, including real-time image editing, AI-powered Siri enhancements, and more.
iPhone 16: Introducing the A18 and A18 Pro Chips
The iPhone 16 base models will reportedly get the standard A18 chip, while the Pro models get an upgraded A18 Pro. These chips are based on the enhanced 3nm process (N3E), offering:
- Improved efficiency over A17 Pro
- Moderate performance gains
- Support for next-gen AI processing (likely limited compared to iPhone 17)
Verdict: The iPhone 17’s chip is shaping up to be a game-changer, especially for users who want cutting-edge AI features and long-term performance.
Camera Upgrades
iPhone 17 Camera Leaks: Sharper, Smarter Photography
The iPhone 17 series may see Apple take a big leap in computational photography. According to MacRumors and analysts, the iPhone 17 Pro Max (or Slim) could get:
- A 48MP Ultra-Wide sensor
- Second-gen Tetraprism periscope lens with better zoom
- AI-enhanced photo and video modes
- Improved low-light and motion capture
These improvements align with Apple’s push toward professional-grade mobile photography and could rival Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Ultra and Google’s Pixel 9.
iPhone 16 Camera: More of the Same, With a Twist
The iPhone 16 base models are expected to retain the dual 12MP setup but adopt a vertical layout to enable Spatial Video Recording. Pro models will keep the triple-lens setup with minor improvements:
- Pro Max: 5x Tetraprism zoom lens
- Night mode and HDR enhancements
- Software-based upgrades through iOS 18
Verdict: While the iPhone 16 continues to iterate, the iPhone 17 is likely to set a new benchmark in mobile photography.
Battery Life and Charging
iPhone 17: Rumoured Battery Breakthrough
Apple may introduce stacked battery technology in the iPhone 17, allowing for:
- Higher energy density (longer battery life without increasing size)
- Faster charging support (possibly up to 40W wired and 20W MagSafe)
- Improved heat dissipation
Combined with a more efficient chip and display, this could lead to noticeable improvements in screen-on time.
iPhone 16: Reliable But Unrevolutionary
Leaks suggest only minor gains in battery capacity across iPhone 16 models:
- Slightly larger batteries in Pro models
- Similar MagSafe and Lightning/USB-C charging speeds
- Standard 20-30 hours of mixed-use battery life
Verdict: If battery life is a priority, waiting for the iPhone 17 could be worth it.
Software: iOS 18 vs iOS 17
iPhone 17 with iOS 18: The AI-First iPhone
Apple is expected to go all-in on AI with iOS 18, with several features launching exclusively or optimally on the iPhone 17:
- AI-assisted photo editing
- Siri 2.0 with on-device GPT integration
- AI-powered call summarization and smart replies
- Real-time transcription and translation
The A19 chip will allow for these tasks to run on-device without compromising privacy or speed.
iPhone 16 with iOS 17/iOS 18: Some Features May Be Limited
While the iPhone 16 will support iOS 18, some AI features may be exclusive to newer hardware. iOS 17 remains the default software out of the box with:
- Interactive widgets
- NameDrop
- StandBy mode
Verdict: iPhone 17 will offer the most complete iOS 18 experience, especially for AI-powered tools.
Price Comparison
| Model | iPhone 16 (Expected) | iPhone 17 (Expected) |
|---|---|---|
| Base | $799 | $799 |
| Plus | $899 | $899 |
| Pro | $1,099 | $1,099 |
| Pro Max / Slim | $1,199 | $1,299+ |
Note: Prices are speculative for iPhone 17 and could vary based on new features or global inflation.
Verdict: While pricing may stay consistent, the iPhone 17 Slim could become Apple’s new premium tier.
Should You Upgrade?
Upgrade to iPhone 17 if:
- You want the latest AI features and better long-term support.
- Battery life and camera upgrades matter most.
- You skipped the iPhone 15 or 16 and are due for a major leap.
Stick with iPhone 16 if:
- You already own an iPhone 14 or 15 and want a refined upgrade.
- You don’t need the latest AI features or design overhaul.
- You prefer to wait for confirmed specs before investing.
Conclusion
The iPhone 17 series is shaping up to be one of the most exciting Apple launches in recent years. With major design changes, significant AI enhancements, and top-tier camera upgrades, it could represent a generational leap over the iPhone 16.
While the iPhone 16 will certainly appeal to current iPhone 12/13 users looking to upgrade, tech enthusiasts might want to hold out just a little longer for the iPhone 17’s cutting-edge features.
As always, keep in mind that leaks may change closer to launch. Stay tuned for official announcements from Apple in September 2025.
FAQs
When will the iPhone 17 be released?
Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 17 series in September 2025.
Will the iPhone 17 have a better camera than the iPhone 16?
Yes, especially the Pro models, which are rumoured to include a 48MP ultra-wide lens and better zoom capabilities.
Is iPhone 17 worth waiting for?
If you’re looking for the most future-proof, AI-ready iPhone, then yes, especially if you’re using an older model.
Will iOS 18 features be available on the iPhone 16?
Some features will, but many of the advanced AI tools may be exclusive to iPhone 17 due to hardware limitations.
What is the iPhone 17 Slim?
It’s a rumoured new Pro model that could replace the Pro Max, offering a thinner, more premium design.