Apple’s iPhone 17 Lineup Unveiled: A Leaner, Smarter Future

Apple’s September 9, 2025 “Awe-dropping” event introduced a bold new direction for its flagship devices: the iPhone 17 series, now featuring four models—iPhone 17, iPhone Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and Pro Max—with striking design and technology upgrades.

Slim Meets Stylish: iPhone Air

Taking centre stage is iPhone Air, Apple’s thinnest iPhone to date at just 5.6 mm and weighing 165 g. It boasts a titanium frame and ceramic shield, powered by the A19 Pro chip, C1X modem, and N1 networking technology including Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6. The 6.5″ ProMotion display, 48 MP rear camera, and 18 MP Center Stage front camera deliver flagship features in a super-slim form. It will be sold as eSIM-only worldwide. Pricing starts at USD 999, with preorders starting September 12 and availability from September 19.

Evolution, Not Revolution: iPhone 17

The base iPhone 17 brings expected enhancements: 120 Hz ProMotion display, improved cameras, Director-level N1 wireless chip, and upgraded wireless charging. It launches at USD 799.

Pro Performance Redefined

The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max are built for power users. Featuring a new horizontal “Camera Plateau”, robust aluminum unibody with vapor-chamber cooling, and the formidable A19 Pro chip, they deliver up to 8× optical-quality zoom through a 48 MP telephoto system. Battery life sees a major leap, and Apple Intelligence features—like Live Translation—are baked in. Pricing begins at USD 1,099 (Pro) and USD 1,199 (Pro Max).

Availability & Software

All new models open for preorder on September 12, with launch slated for September 19. Meanwhile, iOS 26—featuring Apple’s new “Liquid Glass” design language and AI-enhanced tools—rolls out to eligible devices on September 15.

What This Means for African Consumers

Depending on currency fluctuations and import duties, actual local pricing may vary. The iPhone Air stands out as particularly intriguing—blending flagship-level specs with a sleek new profile.