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The iPhone 17: A Solid Upgrade That Renders the iPhone 16e Obsolete

By Devindra Hardawar, Senior Editor
Wednesday, September 17, 2025, at 12:30 PM UTC

The recently launched iPhone 17 has made the iPhone 16e feel even less relevant than before. Priced at $799, the iPhone 17 offers numerous enhancements over the iPhone 16e, which was already criticized for its $599 price point, making it a subpar choice for budget-conscious consumers looking for value.

With the iPhone 17, users can enjoy a larger, superior display featuring ProMotion technology, lightning-fast processing capabilities, dual-camera functionality, and double the storage at just a $200 premium. While the increased price may seem steep, the value proposition becomes clear when comparing it with the feature-limited iPhone 16e, which arguably should have been priced closer to $500 to compete effectively with devices like the Pixel 9a.

In a previous review of the vanilla iPhone 16, I highlighted its revamped CPU and integrations with Apple Intelligence, especially considering its ability to manage performance against cost. The same applies to the iPhone 17, which retains this balance with exciting new features at the same price as its predecessor. While high-end devices like the $999 iPhone Air and $1,099 iPhone 17 Pro may attract enthusiasts, many users will find the iPhone 17 provides everything they need for an excellent experience without breaking the bank.

The introduction of ProMotion technology is a game changer. The iPhone 17’s display can refresh at a variable rate up to 120Hz compared to the stagnant 60Hz of earlier models, enhancing the fluidity of browsing and scrolling experiences. This shift might seem minor, but once you’ve felt the smoothness of a ProMotion screen, returning to a standard refresh rate can feel jarring.

Of course, some might point out that Android devices have had high refresh rate displays for years. It’s true that Apple has been slow to adopt these features, yet the improvements are welcome and significant nonetheless. Engadget’s Senior Reporter, Billy Steele, noted in his hands-on experience, “The difference between this new model and my iPhone 16 Plus was immediately apparent. Colors are more vivid, details are sharper, and it’s generally more pleasant to look at.”

Camera upgrades on the iPhone 17 are noteworthy, especially its ultrawide camera, now at 48 megapixels, matching the main sensor. However, the most impressive enhancement is actually the front-facing camera, which now boasts 18 megapixels and a square sensor, allowing for effortless orientation changes from landscape to portrait without needing to rotate the device. This feature is designed to encourage more selfies, further embedding users in Apple’s ecosystem.

Additionally, features like Dual Capture, which allows simultaneous recording from both front and rear cameras, and the Center Stage capability that keeps the user centered during video recording, are impressive. Surprisingly, these features are included in the standard iPhone 17 model rather than reserved for the higher-end variants, which could further encourage content creation among users.

Despite the iPhone 16 still being available at $699, the advantages of moving to the iPhone 17 for just a small increase in price are clear. The iPhone 16, while capable, is outclassed by the versatility and modern features of the newer model. If you find a refurbished iPhone 16 at a great deal, it’s still a solid option, but for those valuing cutting-edge technology, it’s hard to overlook the iPhone 17.

With a $599 entry-level phone missing from Apple’s lineup—where the price tag often leaves budget-minded consumers in a tough spot—there’s hope that a future iPhone 17e could address this gap.

Summary
The iPhone 17 sets a new standard in Apple’s smartphone offerings, blending a competitive price with upgraded technology that makes the iPhone 16e nearly irrelevant. Whether you’re an entry-level smartphone user or hunting for the latest features, the iPhone 17 appeals to a variety of users looking for reliability and performance.

For more details and to see the latest deals, check Apple’s official websites and retailers.

Related Articles:

• Exploring the New Features of the iPhone 17
• Apple’s Strategy in Smartphone Pricing
• Refurbished iPhones: Good Deals or Risky Choices?

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