Apple iPhone 17 iOS 26.2 Review
The iPhone 17 features a 6.3-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with 120Hz ProMotion, Apple A19 chip, a 48MP dual camera system, and starts at 256GB storage, offering significant improvements in display and battery life compared to previous models. Reviews praise its upgraded screen, balanced performance, and near-Pro quality at a more accessible price. In the USA, it is available for online purchase directly from Apple, major retailers like Walmart, and other electronics stores.
iPhone 17 Specs
The iPhone 17, released in September 2025, is Apple's entry-level flagship for the year, positioned as a balanced, affordable option with many Pro-level features trickled down. It starts at $799 for 256GB storage (a doubling from the iPhone 16's base) and comes in five colors: Black, White, Blue, Orange, Green, and Purple (or Lavender variant in some reports). Here's a breakdown of the key specifications:
Display
6.3-inch Super Retina XDR OLED, 120Hz ProMotion (adaptive refresh rate for smoother scrolling), Always-On display, up to 2,000 nits peak brightness, Ceramic Shield 2 (3x more scratch-resistant), thinner bezels.
Processor
A19 chip (hexa-core, 3nm process), up to 25-40% faster than A18, supports Apple Intelligence for AI features like image creation and Live Translation.
Memory & Storage
8GB RAM, 256GB base storage (up to 1TB options).
Cameras
Rear: Dual 48MP (wide + ultrawide) with improved low-light performance, 2x optical zoom, video modes including dual-capture (front + rear simultaneously). Front: 18MP or 24MP TrueDepth (sources vary), with auto-pan/zoom for group selfies and landscape mode in portrait orientation.
Battery
Up to 30 hours video playback (8 hours more than iPhone 16), faster 25W wired charging (50% in 30 minutes with 20W adapter), 25W MagSafe wireless, larger capacity with silicon anode tech.
Design & Build
Aluminum frame with contoured edges, matte glass back, slightly taller/thicker than iPhone 16 for battery gains, IP68 water/dust resistance, USB-C port.
Connectivity
5G (Sub-6GHz + mmWave), Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, eSIM-only, Emergency SOS via satellite (free for 2 years).
Software
Ships with iOS 26, including Dynamic Island enhancements and metalens tech for smaller cutout.
Other
Action button, Camera Control button, Face ID, stereo speakers.
These specs make it a significant upgrade over the iPhone 16, especially in display fluidity and battery endurance, without a price hike.
iPhone 17 Specifications
Display: 6.3" OLED, Super Retina XDR, 2622x1206, 460 ppi, 120Hz adaptive refresh, Always-On.
Chipset: Apple A19 (6-core CPU, 5-core GPU, Neural Accelerator), 8GB RAM.
Storage: 256GB or 512GB (no 128GB variant).
Camera: 48MP Fusion Main + 48MP Fusion Ultra-Wide (dual system), 12MP 2x optical zoom, 18MP front camera with Dual Capture.
Battery: 3692 mAh, up to 30 hours video playback, fast-charging (50% in ~20 min with 40W adapter).
Networking: N1 chip (Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, Thread), Qualcomm Snapdragon X80 modem for 5G/eSIM; Ultra Wideband, NFC.
Other: Ceramic Shield 2 front, IP68 water/dust resistance, Apple Intelligence (AI features), iOS 26.
Colors: Black, Mist Blue, Sage, Lavender.
User & Expert Reviews
The display is widely praised for its clarity, extreme brightness, and smooth scrolling, making it the best standard model screen to date.
Camera quality is noted for sharp, natural color and improved zoom, nearly matching Pro models for casual and AV use.
Battery life and charging speeds exceed previous generations, with 6+ more hours of use than iPhone 16.
Pro-level design, custom button layout, and AI features enhance usability, though some reviewers say AI remains early-stage.
Criticisms include lack of dramatic design change and some missing advanced camera features found only in Pro models, but overall value is exceptional for the price.
Reviews and Impressions
Early reviews praise the iPhone 17 as the "most sensible" or "best standard iPhone in years," closing the gap to Pro models with key upgrades like ProMotion and a stronger camera system—all at the same $799 price. It's ideal for everyday users who want reliability without Pro-level extras like advanced zoom or titanium builds. Here's a summary from major outlets:
TechRadar (5/5 stars): "Sleek, reliable, and finally feels complete." Highlights the smooth 120Hz screen for media consumption, excellent color accuracy, and Dynamic Island integration for apps like travel trackers. Battery lasts a full day with heavy use; camera excels in portraits and low-light. Drawback: Subdued color options feel less vibrant than iPhone 16.
The Guardian (4/5 stars): "The Apple smartphone to get this year." Loves the value—double storage, always-on display, and group selfie smarts without a premium tag. Video recording shines with dual-capture mode. Notes it's slightly taller but ergonomically unchanged; iOS 26's Liquid Glass UI feels dynamic.
IGN (9/10): "Catches up on last year’s Pro additions and goes toe-to-toe." Smooth variable refresh rate and 48MP sensors make it feel premium. Design is a "constant reminder it's base-tier" (no major redesign), but battery and performance are "toe-to-toe" with Air/Pro. Great for gamers with stable frame rates.
Tom's Guide (4.5/5 stars): "Better upgrades than the Pros." 120Hz display erases sluggishness; low-light photos rival Pro models. After a month of testing, it's "all you need" for most—crisp daytime shots, vibrant colors. Cons: Screenshot workflow in iOS 26 adds an extra step (easily toggled off).
CNET (Editors' Choice, 8.5/10): "Entry-level model is all you need." Solid all-rounder with brighter screen and capable cameras; no need to upgrade from iPhone 13+. Battery and AI features impress, but iOS preview screens can feel fiddly.
WIRED (9/10): "Close to perfect." Faster refresh rate is the "most exciting" change; 18MP selfies and Ceramic Shield 2 add durability. Skip if you have a recent iPhone—it's evolutionary, not revolutionary.
Overall consensus: Battery life (up to 42 hours mixed use) and display smoothness are standout wins, with cameras delivering "professional-quality" results. It's not for creators needing telephoto zoom, but for 80% of users, it's the sweet spot. No major flaws reported, though some wish for bolder colors or under-display Face ID (rumored but not here).
Where to Buy Online
The iPhone 17 is widely available online post-launch, with trade-in deals up to $700 off (for iPhone 8+). Free shipping is standard; expect 1-2 week delivery, though popular colors/configs may have waits. Since you're in Hong Kong, prioritize local/global sites for faster shipping and HK-specific pricing/warranty (around HK$6,299 base). Here's where to shop:
Where to Buy Online (USA)
Apple iPhone 17 at Walmart
Apple iPhone 17
https://www.verizon.com/smartphones/apple-iphone-17/
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
https://www.verizon.com/smartphones/apple-iphone-17-pro/
Buy iPhone 17
https://www.apple.com/shop/buy-iphone/iphone-17/6.3-inch-display-256gb-black-unlocked
Largest selection, fastest access to new stock Yes, trade-in and financing Pre-orders, in-store pickup, trade-in
Apple iPhone 17
https://www.att.com/buy/phones/apple-iphone-17.html
Apple iPhone 17
https://www.att.com/buy/phones/apple-iphone-17-256gb-black.html
Apple iPhone 17
https://www.att.com/buy/phones/apple-iphone-17-256gb-mist-blue.html
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
https://www.att.com/buy/phones/apple-iphone-17-pro-512gb-cosmic-orange.html
Apple iPhone 17
https://www.boostmobile.com/shop/iphone-17.html
eBay Apple iPhone 17
Walmart Yes Multiple configurations
Online retailers often feature financing, trade-in promotions, and free shipping options.
Prices in the U.S. are listed before sales tax; select your state for final total at checkout.
For the highest certainty of instant availability, purchase via Apple’s online store or app. Major U.S. retailers also offer the iPhone 17, but physical store stock varies day-to-day.
The best online retailers to buy the iPhone 17 in the USA are Apple, Best Buy, Walmart, and major wireless carriers (AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, Boost Mobile, and Xfinity Mobile). Apple’s own online store consistently offers the quickest access to all models and configurations, with trade-in options, financing, and the ability to easily check pickup availability at local stores. Best Buy and Walmart have strong nationwide availability and offer same-day pickup and delivery in many locations.
Top Online Retailers for iPhone 17
Best Buy Broad carrier/model selection, fast delivery, price matching Yes Same-day pickup available
Walmart Competitive pricing, regular availability No direct financing Online discounts, in-store pickup
Wireless carriers (AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, Boost, Xfinity) Carrier deals, bill credits, free phone with plan Yes, through bill credits Locked to carrier plans
Buying Tips
For unlocked models, buying direct from Apple or Best Buy is recommended.
Carrier promotions through each carriers’ site (or Apple site with activation) can lead to significant savings or even free phones for new lines or qualifying trade-ins.
In-store pickup is usually fastest with Apple and Best Buy, but always check online for specific model and color availability.
All major retailers support online purchase with free shipping, though shipping times can vary during launch windows.
Apple’s official online store remains the most reliable for all models and early access,
while Best Buy and big carriers provide excellent promotions and widespread stock for most shoppers.
Apple Official Store: Direct from source—$799 USD, 0% financing via Apple Card, free Personal Setup sessions, easy trade-ins. Best for unlocked models and AppleCare+ bundles.
Best Buy (bestbuy.com): Unlocked or carrier-tied (AT&T/Verizon/T-Mobile), starting $799 with $40–$830 trade-in credits. My Best Buy perks for members
Verizon (verizon.com): Carrier-locked plans from $23/mo., up to $830 off with trade-in. Good for US buyers, but international shipping available; unlocked options too.
AT&T (att.com): Monthly credits up to $700 off on unlimited plans; eSIM setup ready.
Amazon (amazon.com or amazon.com.hk): Competitive pricing (~$799), Prime fast shipping, bundles with cases/chargers. Check seller ratings for authenticity.
Walmart/Target (US-focused, ~$799 with deals);
Croma (croma.com, India shipping).
Best Buy
https://www.bestbuy.com
- Competitive pricing, easy returns (15-45 days), and in-store pickup options. Geek Squad support for setup.
- *Options:* Unlocked or carrier-specific (AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile); all storage and color variants.
- *Deals:* Up to $830 trade-in credit with activation (e.g., for Verizon Unlimited plans); bundle with AppleCare+ for protection.
Best Buy offers deep discounts if you activate with AT&T or Verizon.
- *Shipping:* Free; expedited options available.
T-Mobile
https://www.t-mobile.com/cell-phone/apple-iphone-16
- Great for T-Mobile/ Metro users; strong 5G coverage and family plans.
- *Options:* Locked to T-Mobile or unlocked; up to 512GB storage.
- *Deals:* 0% APR financing; trade-ins for bill credits (up to $830 off iPhone 16 Plus). No line requirement for unlocked buys.
- *Shipping:* Free; includes SIM if needed.
Apple iPhone 16 at Amazon
Amazon Renewed Store
Additional Tips
- *Carriers like Boost Mobile: For prepaid, check for deals starting at lower upfront costs.
- *Warranty:* All new iPhones include 1-year limited warranty; add AppleCare+ ($149–$199) for extended coverage.