The long-awaited iPhone 17 series was finally released on September 19, 2025, and it features a brand-new look with upgraded features. This lineup consists of the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, and a fresh iPhone Air. This time around, Apple is focused on improving the overall performance and user experience with the new A19 chipset. This is undoubtedly an exciting update, but early adopters have reported a few issues that may influence purchase decisions.

What’s New on the iPhone 17 Series

(Source: CNET)

• Powerful A19 and A19 Pro chip
  The all-new A19 chip (used in iPhone 17) and A19 Pro chip (used in iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max) are the most powerful iPhone processors right now, with a 6-core CPU, 6-core GPU with Neural Accelerators (5-core on the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Air). This chipset enhances overall performance while improving Apple Intelligence for enhanced on-device processing.
• Upgraded camera
  The iPhone 17 series camera upgrade features an 18MP Center Stage front camera on all models, enabling the capture of more faces in a selfie. Additionally, Pro models include 8× optical zoom and ProRes RAW, providing more flexibility during post-production for capturing high-quality raw videos.
• Bigger, better, and more durable screen
  The iPhone 17 was given a 6.3-inch display and a 120Hz refresh rate, a feature that’s previously been available on Pro models only. Meanwhile, the iPhone 17 Air also features a 6.5-inch screen for those who want a bigger screen on a slimmer phone.
  Additionally, Ceramic Shield 2 has been introduced in the iPhone 17 series to enhance the durability of the front and back of the new iPhones, as it is 3× more scratch-resistant than its predecessor.
• Larger storage capabilities
  The new iPhone 17 series now starts at 256GB of storage across all models. Of course, bigger storage configurations are also available, like 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB (for iPhone 17 Pro Max).
• iOS 26 update
  All models in the iPhone 17 series come pre-installed with the new iOS 26. This version features a redesign called “Liquid Glass,” an image search tool called “Visual Intelligence,” customised chat wallpapers and polls in Messages, live translation in Messages, FaceTime, and even the Phone app, and many more!
  Here are some more iOS features you might not know.
• Improved battery life
  Below are the battery specifications of the latest iPhone models:
  iPhone 17: Li-Ion 3692 mAh, up to 30 hours of video playback
  iPhone 17 Pro: Li-Ion 3998 mAh (nano SIM model) or Li-Ion 4252 mAh (eSIM model), up to 31 hours of video playback
  iPhone 17 Pro Max: Li-Ion 4823 mAh (nano SIM model) or Li-Ion 5088 mAh (eSIM model), up to 37 hours of video playback
  iPhone Air: Li-Ion 3149 mAh, up to 27 hours of playback time

Reported Issues and Concerns

• “Scratchgate” scandal
  People who have gone to the physical Apple Store have seen the latest iPhone demo units with scratches, thus leading to concerns over the durability of the new iPhone material.
• Connectivity issues
  Users on Reddit have voiced their frustrations about their brand-new iPhones not connecting to Wi-Fi or CarPlay. Some have stated that the iPhone would connect and then disconnect after a few minutes.
• Inconsistent battery performance
  Some Reddit users have also experienced a battery drainage problem, usually in the first three weeks of using the new iPhones. However, many other Redditors shared that they have never experienced such a thing, thus leading to the conclusion that the latest iPhones have inconsistent battery performance.
• Perceived downgrade of material
  Apple’s decision to switch from titanium to aluminium for the body of the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max models has caused a stir among users. Many are concerned about its ability to handle dents and scuffs, with some Redditors uploading images of their new iPhones with scratches after a few weeks of use.

Apple’s Response

(Source: Freepik)

• “Scratchgate” was identified as an issue with the display stands, where old MagSafe chargers are used. The ‘scratches’ weren’t scratches after all — just stains. This issue was fixed by changing the display stands and wiping the backs of the demo units.
• After hearing about the connectivity issues on the iPhone 17 series, Apple released a patch for iOS 26. This quickly fixed this problem, as reported by users on Reddit.
• The increased battery drain in the first three weeks was caused by spotlight indexing of files and the photo library. Apple stated that this process would usually take 3-5 days, but some users have reported that battery performance only improved after the third week. It is advised to visit your nearest Apple Store for support if the issue persists.Learn how to take care of your iPhone’s battery here.
• A few justifications as to why Apple shifted from titanium to aluminium are:
  – To reduce waste as it is cheaper and faster to produce
  – To improve heat reduction because it can transfer heat better than titanium
  – To enhance aesthetics due to it being lighter and less prone to wear and tear compared to titanium.
  In any case, having a protective phone case is crucial to ensure your phone stays safe no matter where you go.

So, Should You Upgrade?

If battery life, camera performance, and ecosystem continuity are important factors for you, then upgrading to the latest iPhone might not be a bad idea.

If you are concerned about how the latest software update will pan out, or just want something more, perhaps you can consider other options or wait and see other users’ reviews of the iOS 26.

Conclusion

Even with the early setbacks, Apple remains optimistic about resolving these software issues with its constant patches. While it is clear that the iPhone 17 series is a powerful one, it is clear that the perception of “premium smartphones” has changed drastically over the years.