Tag: Apple

During the Artemis II mission’s approach for a historic lunar flyby, Commander Reid Wiseman captured an incredible photograph of the lunar surface using his iPhone 17 Pro Max. Here are the details of that moment.

In recent days, the Artemis II crew has shared images taken with their iPhones, marking a notable milestone as NASA permits astronauts to utilize the latest smartphones during their missions, as described by NASA administrator Jared Isaacman.

The crew has been equipped with four iPhone 17 Pro Max devices, along with a GoPro HERO 4 Black, a Nikon D5, and a Nikon Z 9 to document their journey. These images are now available on NASA Johnson’s Flickr account.

Tonight, as the spacecraft approached the moon for a flyby that would propel it back toward Earth, the astronauts took turns capturing what they saw through the Orion capsule’s window. During a livestream, as Public Affairs Officer Leah Mustachio explained that the team had turned off all cabin lights for better photography, Reid Wiseman stepped forward with a stunning lunar surface shot displayed on his iPhone.

A Twitter post later confirmed that Wiseman had snapped the photo with his iPhone 17 Pro Max using an 8x zoom. Mission Control identified the crater in the photo as Chebyshev.

At the time of writing, the crew was engaged in post-lunar flyby activities, including transmitting some photos back to Earth, as reported by Mustachio.

Watch the related video here.

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Earlier this year, NASA administrator Jared Isaacman confirmed that astronauts aboard the Artemis II mission would be permitted to bring the latest smartphones along for the journey. Now, The New York Times has revealed the efforts involved in making this possible.

Currently, four iPhone 17 Pro Max devices are hurtling toward the moon at approximately 25,000 miles per hour. While this isn’t the first occasion an iPhone has traveled into space, Artemis II is notable for being the first mission where NASA provided each crew member with an iPhone specifically for capturing photos and videos.

Apple clarified that it was not involved in NASA’s process of approving the iPhones for the Artemis II mission. The company highlighted that this mission was the first to fully qualify an iPhone for extended use in orbit and beyond. However, the primary functions of the devices will be limited to photography and videography, as NASA confirmed they will not have internet connectivity or Bluetooth capabilities.

The process of readying the iPhones for spaceflight was complex, involving several steps. According to Tobias Niederwieser, an assistant research professor at BioServe Space Technologies, the procedure includes four key phases: introducing the hardware to a safety panel, identifying potential hazards such as moving parts or fragile materials, developing mitigation plans, and ultimately demonstrating that these plans are effective.

The iPhone 17 Pro Max features Apple’s Ceramic Shield 2 front cover and Ceramic Shield on the back, both touted as more durable than any other smartphone glass. Nonetheless, considerations extended beyond mere shatter-resistance. NASA had to evaluate how the phones would perform in the microgravity environment of space, where effects of gravity are drastically reduced. For instance, NASA discussed solutions like using Velcro to secure the devices within the spacecraft, as in the Orion capsule, at least one of the phones was stored in a zipped pocket on a flight suit prior to launch.

A tweet from Owen Sparks showcases the crew with their iPhones packed into their space suits, emphasizing the familiarity of the device’s look and the prospect of capturing lunar views with the same camera used daily on Earth. Similarly, NASA shared breathtaking images of Earth’s vibrant blues and browns lit by the atmosphere, highlighting the human connection through shared perspectives.

Whether the Artemis II astronauts will manage to take equally stunning photos on the lunar surface remains to be seen. To follow their journey and view their shared images, visit NASA’s official gallery.

For those interested in space and technology, there are notable products worth exploring on Amazon, offering the chance to learn more about devices and innovations related to this historic mission.

The power adapters included with your Apple devices—or the recommended chargers for iPhones—often don’t deliver the fastest charging speeds. Investing in a higher-capacity charger can significantly reduce charging times.

However, each Apple device has its own maximum charging capacity, and purchasing a charger that exceeds this limit isn’t cost-effective. Most recent Apple products come with a charger, except for iPhones, but these included chargers may not be the best match for the device’s full charging potential. Typically, Apple provides a charger with a lower wattage than what the device can handle, which limits its charging speed.

For example, the 13-inch M4 iPad Pro comes with a 20-watt charger, even though the device can accept up to 35 watts. Upgrading to a more powerful charger can nearly double the charging speed.

For guidance on selecting the optimal charger for each Apple device, resources like Rands in Repose offer detailed tables that specify the recommended charging wattage and protocols, especially for fast-charging phases. It’s important to note that the most rapid charging occurs within the first 0 to 50% of battery capacity, as devices tend to slow down their charging rate after reaching 50%, and from 80% onwards, they switch to a trickle charge to preserve battery health.

Interestingly, with the newer Apple Watch models, the cable used can impact charging speed more than the power adapter itself. For example, the Series 11 and Ultra 2 can reach 80% charge in 30–45 minutes, but only when using the Apple USB-C Magnetic Fast Charging Cable paired with any USB Power Delivery (USB-PD) compatible power adapter (5W or higher). Using the wrong cable can reduce charging efficiency by roughly half.

Lastly, the charge capacity of AirPods cases is so minimal that the type of charger used has little to no effect on charging speed or efficiency.

Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro presents a notable upgrade over the more delicate iPhone 16 Pro. The incorporation of a vapor chamber and the shift from titanium to aluminum significantly enhances sustained performance and thermal regulation. Yet, one of the most exciting hardware advancements isn’t exclusive to the Pro lineup.

Ceramic Shield’s Durability and Scratches

While I genuinely appreciate the improved cooling system in both the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max, my primary concern was always the display’s susceptibility to scratches. On my previous models, subtle scratches would accumulate over time, becoming especially noticeable under indoor lighting or when the screen was off. This issue seemed to be the motivation behind the development of the always-on display feature.

The screen surface would endure fine scratches from everyday use, but the most frustrating were the rare, deep scratches that almost penetrated the glass. My satisfaction with my device decreased the moment these deep cuts appeared. The root of this problem, I believe, lies in the Ceramic Shield coating. Apple designed it to be more drop-resistant, resulting in fewer cracked screens after accidental drops. However, this durability came at the cost of a slightly softer glass that showed more scratches, impacting the device’s resale value over time.

Ceramic Shield 2: A Notable Improvement

Apple continues to employ the original Ceramic Shield on the back of the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone Air, which is a significant step forward since back glass shattering is a common concern. Notably, I haven’t encountered scratching on the back glass of the newer models, probably because there’s less glass on the back of the Pro series this year. Since the back isn’t as visible or integral to viewing through like the front display, scratches there aren’t as troubling.

I admit, I’m cautious about branding Ceramic Shield 2 as a complete success just yet. I’ll be more vigilant about potential scratches during the initial months. If the improved glass prevents deep scratches for over six months—a notable extension compared to my previous experience—that would be a substantial win. If that longer durability holds, it might be time to consider going without a screen protector altogether.

My Verdict and Future Expectations

In the coming months, I might advise those with existing screen protectors to consider testing life without them. For now, it’s clear that Apple has made impressive strides in strengthening the front glass across all models—from the affordable options to the most premium devices. How has your experience with Ceramic Shield 2 been so far? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Apple has recently shifted a significant portion of iPhone manufacturing outside of China, even though this move incurs higher costs. The company reportedly reached a major milestone, now producing roughly half of its iPhones in India, marking substantial progress toward its goal of equal production between China and India.

While most iPhones are still assembled in China, Apple has been actively increasing its manufacturing capacity in other regions over several years. India has become a key secondary hub, with a target to produce 50% of iPhones there within approximately a year. A notable achievement in this effort was the production of the iPhone 17 lineup simultaneously in both India and China—a departure from previous launches, which were exclusive to China at first.

The push to diversify manufacturing is partly driven by US tariffs on Chinese-made goods, prompting Apple to accelerate its plans to manufacture all US-bound iPhones in India. Reports now indicate that Apple is roughly halfway to its 50% target. According to Bloomberg, the company increased iPhone production in India by about 53% last year, producing around a quarter of its devices there—approximately 55 million units out of the global annual production of 220-230 million, up from 36 million the previous year.

Despite the additional costs associated with manufacturing in India, Apple has managed to reach this milestone, demonstrating its commitment to expanding its global supply chain.

Apple has recently introduced the new iPhone 17e, a fresh addition to the iPhone 17 lineup. Here’s a breakdown of what remains consistent and what differs between the iPhone 17e and the standard iPhone 17.

Several core features are shared by both models, including the latest chip architecture, which, while slightly reduced in GPU cores, offers comparable performance levels. Beyond that, however, the models diverge significantly, especially in camera technology and display features.

The most notable differences between the two models lie in their cameras and screens. The iPhone 17 boasts an 18MP Center Stage front camera that automatically adjusts framing for selfies, regardless of how you hold the device. In contrast, the iPhone 17e’s 48MP Fusion Main camera is similar in resolution but falls short in areas like optical image stabilization and does not support the newest Photographic Styles. Additionally, the Dual Capture feature available on the iPhone 17 is absent from the 17e.

Display-wise, the iPhone 17 has a brighter, more advanced screen with 120Hz ProMotion support and an Always-On display, along with a slightly larger 6.3-inch size. The iPhone 17e features a smaller 6.1-inch display, lacks ProMotion and Always-On capabilities, and does not include the Dynamic Island, giving it a less modern look. Its screen brightness is about 25% lower than that of the iPhone 17.

Further distinctions include the overall design and feature set. The iPhone 17’s display is brighter and more feature-rich, contributing to a more premium feel. The iPhone 17e, while more affordable at its starting price of $599 compared to $799 for the iPhone 17, sacrifices some premium features. This budget version introduces improvements over last year’s 16e, such as MagSafe and the C1X modem, but the standard iPhone 17 remains the more comprehensive option.

In summary, choosing between the two depends on your priorities: if high-end camera capabilities, a brighter display, and premium features matter most, investing in the iPhone 17 is the better choice. However, if budget constraints are key, the iPhone 17e offers significant capabilities for a lower price. Your decision may come down to what features you most value in your smartphone.

While I usually prefer to use my iPhone without a case or screen protector, I’ve found myself enjoying both on the iPhone 17 Pro and can suggest trying them out without a long-term commitment. They’re affordable enough to experiment with first.

Five years ago, Apple introduced Ceramic Shield glass for the iPhone, boasting four times improved drop resistance and fewer cracked screens. Although I haven’t experienced a shattered screen yet, I do notice a few deep scratches after a year of use. This year’s Ceramic Shield 2 claims to be three times more resistant to scratches, but I remain cautious about avoiding deep scratches for now.

Apple also mentions an improved anti-glare coating on the front panel, but the difference isn’t comparable to the nano texture finish on iPad Pro and MacBook Pro, which significantly reduces reflections.

To make my iPhone 17 Pro display more matte, I rely on a product I’ve used and liked before— the Mothca matte glass screen protector. It does its job, although it’s not perfect; I’d prefer a nano-texture finish that’s free from rainbow effects and brightness reduction.

For occasional activities like kayaking or mounting the device on my motorcycle, I usually opt for a minimal case to protect against impacts and prevent chipping the glossy orange aluminum edges near the camera bump. The Apple clear case is a choice, but its design isn’t my favorite this year. If I needed daily protection, I might consider Apple’s new TechWoven case, although I don’t find the current color options appealing.

My current favorite is a gray Spigen Thin Fit case I stumbled upon at a retail store. It’s available in black, gunmetal, and abyss green, and the gray version perfectly matches my aesthetic. It costs $39.99 from Spigen, but Amazon offers it for around $34.99.

Many budget cases lack MagSafe compatibility, which limits the effective use of magnetic mounts and battery packs. The Spigen Thin Fit not only supports MagSafe but also includes a capacitive Camera Control cover instead of a simple cutout. I appreciate that it covers the entire camera area, enhancing durability. Its “orange circles” design matches the Space Black Apple Watch Ultra’s Digital Crown look and gives the device a cohesive, futuristic appearance. The orange accents around the buttons and port add a nice touch, blending well with the gray body.

This case also conceals the orange aluminum frame around the display, which can be distracting when partially visible through a thin case. Overall, it provides a sleek, protective, and stylish option that suits my needs.

For accessories, the Mothca matte screen protector and the Spigen Thin Fit case are economical choices offering good protection and style. The case’s MagSafe feature and the full camera coverage make it a practical pick. Plus, the compatibility with MagSafe ensures stronger magnet connections with battery packs and mounts, avoiding the limitations of cheaper options that omit this feature.

Apple recently announced their highest-ever iPhone sales in the final quarter of the previous year, marking a significant milestone. While growth trends have generally been upward over time, this recent period saw a remarkable surge in sales figures.

Industry analysts have identified several contributing factors to this success, with new insights pointing to two additional reasons—both connected to the color orange.

In their latest financial report, Apple revealed that this quarter was their most profitable yet, driven largely by record-breaking iPhone sales. Notably, China emerged as a crucial market, reversing a previous six-quarter stagnation or decline.

According to the report, Apple achieved a quarterly revenue of $143.8 billion, reflecting a 16% increase compared to the previous year. The iPhone segment experienced unprecedented demand, marking its peak sales period.

China’s market performance was particularly impressive, with a 38% rise year-over-year. This growth was predominantly due to iPhone sales, which set an all-time revenue record for the region, making it the most successful quarter in China’s history for iPhones.

While several factors have been suggested to explain this boom, recent reports emphasize the influence of the iPhone 17 Pro models’ distinctive color: cosmic orange.

The Financial Times highlighted the pivotal role played by this vibrant hue. In China, where consumers are often driven by status symbols, having a visibly new and exclusive-looking device makes a substantial difference. The eye-catching orange color not only signals the latest model, but also underscores its premium nature.

Design improvements in the iPhone 17 series have further strengthened Apple’s image as a luxury brand, especially in China, where visual status cues matter. The particular shade of orange is reminiscent of Hermès’ signature hue, adding an element of perceived luxury to the device.

A model and influencer known as Xiao Mei expressed strong admiration for the color, noting that the hue felt special and luxurious—similar to Hermès orange—and that her affinity for it grew the longer she observed the device. This perception of exclusivity and style has contributed significantly to the device’s desirability in the market.

Apple experienced a historic surge in iPhone sales in China during the latest quarter, marking a significant turnaround after a prolonged 18-month decline. CEO Tim Cook emphasized that this growth was a major contributor to the company’s record-breaking financial results for the period. The increase was driven by both loyal customers upgrading to newer models and a wave of switchers from Android devices.

Cook highlighted that in Greater China, revenue soared by 38% compared to the previous year, setting new records for iPhone sales. Store traffic in China also grew notably, with strong double-digit percentage increases year-over-year. The company’s installed user base reached unprecedented levels in both Greater China and Mainland China, and the quarter saw the highest number of upgrades and switchers in history. A survey from Worldpanel confirmed that iPhones ranked among the top three smartphones in urban Chinese markets during this period.

This revival followed a period of sales decline, which was attributed to intense competition from locally launched, increasingly sophisticated smartphones. Experts from Wired identified three key factors behind this comeback.

Firstly, the base model iPhone 17 offered exceptional value for money, making it a popular choice despite being the more affordable option in the lineup. This model distinguished itself by providing features usually reserved for higher-end versions, such as an always-on display with ProMotion technology, an 18MP front camera with Center Stage, and a 48MP Ultra Wide camera on the back. These features made it highly competitive, blurring the lines between the standard and Pro models.

Gerrit Schneemann from Counterpoint explained that the improvements in the iPhone 17 represented a more substantial upgrade from the previous generation than usual, encouraging early upgrades among consumers. Additionally, in 2025, Beijing’s government spent approximately $43 billion on subsidies for domestic electronics, appliances, and vehicles, which significantly lowered the effective price of smartphones. Smartphones priced under 6,000 RMB ($860) received discounts of up to 15%, and with the iPhone 17 listed at 5,999 RMB, it was an attractive option for price-sensitive buyers benefiting from government incentives.

Overall, these strategies and market conditions contributed to Apple’s remarkable rebound in China, culminating in a record-breaking quarter for iPhone sales in the region.

Maracanã Stadium became the pioneer in adopting a 12-rig system equipped with 28 iPhone 17 Pro devices, designed to facilitate semi-automated offside decisions. The details of this setup are noteworthy.

According to reports from ge (via MacMagazine), the Brazilian Football Confederation, or CBF, has confirmed the installation of a semi-automated offside system at Maracanã, utilizing 28 iPhone 17 Pro units.

The innovative system involves mounting these 28 iPhones onto 12 rigs strategically positioned around the stadium. These devices record matches in 4K resolution at high frame rates, creating detailed digital replicas of each play. This advanced approach aims to enhance the precision of offside assessments.

Despite the installation completion at Maracanã, CBF indicates that the semi-automated offside system will not be immediately active. Instead, it will undergo testing and calibration phases, coupled with training sessions for referees on how to operate the technology. Only after passing these stages will the system be approved for official use in Brazilian Série A matches.

CBF’s president, Samir Xaud, emphasized the importance of this technological upgrade, stating: “Introducing semi-automated offside technology marks a significant milestone for Brazilian football. We are meticulously overseeing each phase to ensure the system’s safety, reliability, and compliance with international standards. Maracanã’s role is pivotal, and our priority is to achieve full approval before the system’s official deployment in competitions.”

In addition, four other stadiums—Nilton Santos, Arena MRV, Mineirão, and Mangueirão—have been confirmed to receive this system, although no specific timeline for their integration has been announced.

A recent market analysis reveals that Apple continued to lead the top-selling smartphone charts in 2025, with the base model iPhone 17 notably securing a spot among the top ten devices.

Out of the top ten, seven positions were occupied by iPhones, while Samsung only appeared at the fifth place.

According to the latest insights from Counterpoint Research, which assesses annual sales figures, it’s expected that the iPhone 16 slightly outperformed the 17 in overall sales for the year.

Interestingly, the base model iPhone 17 achieved seventh place, a significant jump from the iPhone 16’s tenth position in 2024. This boost highlights the growing consumer preference for the more affordable variant of the 17 series, especially as it offers notable improvements like a higher refresh rate, more RAM, and increased base storage—bringing it closer in features to the Pro models. This is why many have regarded the iPhone 17 as one of the best overall iPhones developed in recent years.

Counterpoint Research also highlighted the strong market reception, noting that the iPhone 17 series experienced a 16% sales increase in its first full quarter, driven by high demand across key regions including the US, China, and Western Europe. The success of the base model exemplifies the trend toward offering more value-packed options for consumers who may not require the advanced features of the Pro versions.

Photo by appshunter.io on Unsplash

A recent study by Counterpoint Research indicates that Apple has managed to counteract the decline in smartphone sales in China, primarily due to the popularity of the iPhone 17 series, and has emerged as the leader in the market during the last quarter of 2025. The data shows that despite a 1.6% decrease in overall smartphone shipments in China in Q4 2025, Apple’s shipments increased by 28% compared to the same period in 2024.

This growth propelled Apple to a commanding 21.8% market share in China, up from 16.8% in the previous year, overtaking local manufacturer vivo and placing it firmly in second position behind Huawei, which held 16.9%. The report highlights that Apple’s success was driven by strong demand for the iPhone 17 series, including the innovative Pro models with new camera designs and the base models offering double the storage capacity at the same price as previous versions. The delayed launch of the iPhone Air resulted in a modest market share for that model, with analysts noting its potential to influence future ultra-thin smartphone designs and eSIM adoption in the region.

Throughout 2025, Apple experienced a 7.5% increase in shipment share in China, outperforming competitors such as Xiaomi, which grew by 4.3%. These figures underscore Apple’s formidable comeback in the Chinese market, positioning it as a significant player in the competitive landscape.

During the holiday break, I finally decided to upgrade my smartphone, after using my iPhone 13 Pro Max for four years. Here are the key differences I’ve observed so far.

Living in a country with some of the highest iPhone prices and being cautious with expenses, I held onto my previous device longer than most. But a recent trip to New York, coupled with idle waiting time during a demo for the Apple Vision Pro, prompted me to make the switch.

One of the most noticeable improvements is the battery life. I typically avoid stressing over battery percentages, but I noticed a significant difference. Working from home, I didn’t worry much about battery health during weekdays. However, weekends often required recharges. Now, with the new iPhone 17 Pro Max, I found it to last almost indefinitely. Even after a busy day of photography and navigating the city, it stayed above 85% after a full day out.

In terms of appearance and feel, the new device is less comfortable. Its finish is especially slippery, the rounded edges seem overly bulky, and although it’s only about a millimeter thicker than my old model, it feels noticeably heavier and more unwieldy. The lighter weight of about 10 grams, compared to my previous phone, feels somewhat awkward, like it’s trying to appear more durable than it actually is. After years with the older device, switching back makes the new feel somewhat unsatisfactory.

Regarding the camera, it’s no surprise that a four-year gap results in noticeable improvements. While incremental annual upgrades are often subtle, over time they accumulate. However, the upgrade was particularly striking when I first saw the low-light photos from my first day out in New York, highlighting the difference over my older device. Scrolling through my photo library, the upgrade instantly becomes apparent.

I also appreciate the new camera button. While I’m still getting used to using it, I find it more intuitive than swiping or activating it through the control center. The quick press to open the Camera app or hold to access Visual Intelligence feels natural and more efficient — a feature I’m beginning to see its benefits.

I turned off the always-on display immediately after setup because I find it unnecessary and distracting. Although I might try it again later, for now it’s just an added cognitive load I prefer to avoid. Despite trying to rely more on built-in visual features and ChatGPT rather than Siri, I still find many tasks faster on my Mac, which might just reflect my preference or age.

The increased screen size and reduced bezels are noticeable when comparing side by side, but in daily life, the extra space doesn’t feel as impactful as expected. As for the Dynamic Island, I agree it’s a worthwhile improvement over the notch, especially for quick controls or notifications, though I look forward to it being replaced by a more seamless design.

Overall, I’m very satisfied with my new device and expect to use it extensively until at least the iPhone 21, appreciating its long-lasting battery and improved features.

After being closely matched for the past two years, Apple’s iPhone now surpasses Samsung in global market share as of the end of last year, according to recent market analysis. Notably, Apple experienced the strongest annual growth among smartphone manufacturers, which went beyond the popularity of the iPhone 17 series.

In 2023, both Apple and Samsung each held a 19% share of the worldwide smartphone market, as reported by Counterpoint. By 2024, the market share of both brands dipped slightly to 18%, affected by increased competition from Chinese manufacturers. However, by the close of 2025, Apple had regained the lead with a 20% share, outpacing Samsung’s 18%. During this period, Apple’s shipment growth rate doubled that of Samsung, reaching 10% year-over-year.

Senior analyst Varun Mishra pointed out, “Apple’s success in 2025 was driven by its expanding footprint and increasing demand in emerging and mid-sized markets, supported by a more diverse product lineup.” While the launch of the iPhone 17 played a significant role, the previous generation, iPhone 16, also contributed notably to Apple’s growth.

The firm highlighted that the strongest sales boost occurred in the last quarter following the release of the iPhone 17, with continued strong performance of the iPhone 16 in regions such as Japan, India, and Southeast Asia. This rise is partially attributed to the COVID-era upgrade cycle reaching a turning point, prompting many users to replace their devices.

Although rising memory costs are expected to slow down the smartphone market this year, both Apple and Samsung are well-equipped to handle these challenges. Samsung manufactures its own memory chips, while Apple leverages its market influence to secure favorable supply terms ahead of demand.

Photo Credit: MACAU PHOTOGRAPHY on Unsplash

As 2025 draws to an end, it’s the perfect moment to review Apple’s achievements over the year and identify the standout products. This was a remarkable year for Apple enthusiasts, marked by the launch of cutting-edge devices such as the iPhone 17, AirPods Pro 3, and new Mac models. Among these, one device clearly distinguished itself above the rest.

Here’s the reasoning behind designating the iPhone 17 as 9to5Mac’s Product of the Year.

This year’s lineup was unique in that every contender for the award was an iPhone, a first since we began awarding the title in 2020. Apple’s 2025 iPhone series represents its most robust offering in quite some time. The iPhone 17 Pro is distinctly professional-grade, featuring a new vapor chamber cooling system, extended battery life, and a sophisticated camera setup. Meanwhile, the iPhone Air stands out as the most daring redesign since the iPhone X.

Nonetheless, the iPhone 17 impresses as the best overall device in recent years. It embodies the culmination of the past five years of iPhone improvements, since the major redesign introduced with the iPhone 12.

Several key features make the iPhone 17 particularly noteworthy. Most importantly, it is the first non-Pro iPhone to include an Always-On display with ProMotion technology. It also shares the same 18MP front camera with Center Stage as the Pro model, complemented by an upgraded 48MP Ultra Wide lens on the rear.

Zac Hall comments that, although the iPhone 17 isn’t as feature-rich as the Pro or as visually innovative as the Air, it might be the best standard iPhone in the foreseeable future. If Apple delays the release of the next iPhone until spring 2027, the 17 should remain relevant longer than typical models.

He also believes the iPhone Air will be remembered for redefining what an iPhone can be—highlighting that the Air isn’t simply a different size, but a fundamentally different concept, which might encourage future Pro models to emphasize features over slimness.

Ryan Christoffel adds that the iPhone 17 achieves what hasn’t been done for years—an all-around exceptional iPhone without significant compromises. Having previously favored the Pro models, he finds the inclusion of ProMotion and an always-on display pivotal. These features, combined with a storage upgrade to 256GB at the same price of $799, make the device appealing to most users, even if it isn’t his personal choice.

Ben Lovejoy notes that while he didn’t see value in upgrading from his iPhone 16 Pro Max to the new model, the iPhone 17 is a major upgrade over prior standard models. The addition of ProMotion, an always-on display, increased screen size, upgraded cameras, longer battery life—with up to 30 hours of video playback—and doubled base storage to 256GB make the standard variant remarkably comparable to the Pro versions.

Marcus Mendes comments that in Brazil, where iPhones are particularly expensive, the iPhone 17’s expanded features at the same price point as previous models make it a practical recommendation—highlighting that, for the first time, the base model offers many Pro features, redefining what an iPhone is. This change helps justify choosing the standard model without reservations.

Benjamin Mayo emphasizes that the lineup’s strength this year was evident through multiple standout models, notably the bold design of the iPhone 17 Pro Max and the innovative Air. However, the most impactful was the base iPhone 17, which now offers a comprehensive set of features at the same price as its predecessor, even getting cheaper in real terms due to increased storage. It combines the new Center Stage selfie camera, 48MP ultra-wide rear camera, durable Ceramic Shield 2, and a powerful A19 chip, all with the same high-refresh-rate ProMotion display and always-on capabilities as Pro models—an impressive upgrade for most users.

Fernando Silva adds that the iPhone 17’s value stems from closing the gap with Pro models while maintaining the same price. The 120Hz ProMotion display transforms daily use, and the larger 6.3-inch screen enhances usability. The camera system, featuring dual 48MP sensors, offers excellent versatility without the need to move into Pro territory. The increase to 256GB storage further enhances its attractiveness as a complete package, making it the best overall choice for most consumers, which earned it the Product of the Year accolade.

Michael Bower concludes that the iPhone 17 is the ideal choice for most, despite not including the Pro Max variant. It delivers well-rounded performance, with enough improvements to make upgrading worthwhile without overcomplicating the decision, even if it doesn’t surpass the Air in boldness.

Altogether, these perspectives recognize the iPhone 17 as a significant stride forward, balancing innovation, value, and broad appeal—certifying its place as this year’s top product in our view.

The results for this year’s MKBHD Smartphone Awards have just been announced, with Apple securing four honors across ten categories—one of which is somewhat controversial. Here are the specifics.

Three smartphone models earned four separate distinctions. Although some may find MKBHD’s annual awards process contentious or frustrating, these awards provide a valuable insight into the current landscape of the smartphone industry, which appears increasingly uniform.

While the spotlight often shines on the winners, MKBHD also offers thoughtful commentary on the runners-up and the reasons behind his choices. These insights often shed more light on the strengths and weaknesses of the devices than the awards themselves, making his videos well worth viewing beyond just the winners.

His 2025 Smartphone Awards video is particularly insightful, providing a broader perspective on market trends, including future directions for foldable phones and other innovations.

If you’re eager for quick highlights, without delving into all the details or competitors, Apple claimed four awards this year. Marques Browlee highlighted the iPhone 17 as the top overall device, noting that it “matured into the most complete and reasonably priced” option, especially after introducing a 120 Hz display along with significant improvements in processor and camera technology.

For a comprehensive understanding of the market and future predictions, watching the full video is highly recommended.

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In addition, there are ongoing deals on accessories available on Amazon.