With the iPhone 16 lineup just around the corner and competitors like Samsung, Google, and OnePlus pushing boundaries, Apple fans are already wondering: what will the iPhone 17 bring to the table? As innovation accelerates across the smartphone industry, expectations for Apple phones continue to rise. From design overhauls to AI integration, here’s what we want—and expect—to see in the iPhone 17.
Learning from the Past: iPhone 16 and iPhone 16e
The upcoming iPhone 16 and iPhone 16e are rumored to bring moderate improvements: enhanced thermal design, minor camera upgrades, and possibly an “Action Button” across more models. While these updates are welcome, they aren’t groundbreaking. The iPhone 16e, expected to be a more affordable version, also leaves room for deeper innovation in future iterations.
This positions the iPhone 17 as the device where Apple could take some bold steps.
The Competition Is Fierce
Before we dive into our wishlist, let’s look at what rivals are doing:
- Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra offers an AI-powered suite, a 200MP camera, and up to 1TB storage.
- Google Pixel 8 Pro leads in computational photography and integrates Google’s AI deeply into everyday tasks.
- OnePlus 12 delivers extreme performance with long battery life and fast charging.
- Motorola and Xiaomi are experimenting with rollable and foldable displays.
Clearly, Apple needs to push forward in both hardware and software if it wants to retain its edge.
What We Want in iPhone 17
1. Redesigned Form Factor
The flat-edge design has remained largely unchanged since iPhone 12. A thinner chassis, under-display Face ID, and even a portless version would be welcome. Some speculate that Apple may be testing titanium again but with reduced weight.
2. Faster, Smarter AI Integration
With iOS 18 expected to debut Apple Intelligence, we want the iPhone 17 to fully embrace AI. Features like on-device summarization, smart replies, and image generation need to become seamless—much like how Pixel uses Gemini and Samsung leans on Galaxy AI.
3. Periscope Zoom on All Models
Rumors say only the iPhone 16 Pro Max might get improved zoom. But for the iPhone 17, we want Apple to bring periscope zoom capabilities across both Pro and standard models. Even a 5x or 10x optical zoom would level the playing field with Samsung’s flagship.
4. Longer Battery Life with Eco-Friendly Design
With more countries regulating electronic waste, Apple can lead by offering swappable batteries or modular components—without compromising the sleek design. We also expect continued focus on recycled materials and carbon-neutral production.
5. Faster Charging with USB-C
The move to USB-C was long overdue. However, Apple phones still charge slower than many Android competitors. We’d love to see 45W+ charging speeds and MagSafe improvements in iPhone 17.
6. Smarter Display
Adaptive refresh rates are now industry standard. Apple should enhance the Always-On Display, allow more customization, and possibly introduce a ProMotion display across all models—not just the Pro ones.
7. More Affordable Entry-Level Model
The iPhone 16e could be the start of a new strategy. With global competition from brands offering high-end features at lower costs, Apple should consider expanding this lineup in the iPhone 17 generation, offering better specs at a competitive price.
Wrapping Up
The iPhone 17 is expected to mark a pivotal point for Apple phones, not just in terms of design, but in how users interact with their devices through AI, photography, and software intelligence. With competitors innovating fast, Apple must step out of its comfort zone to lead—not just follow.
Until then, all eyes remain on the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16e this fall. But if Apple listens to its users, the iPhone 17 could be the most exciting release in years.
