Apple has unveiled the iPhone 17, introducing updates to its camera system, display, chip performance, and accessory options, with availability in over 63 countries and regions.
The iPhone 17 brings the new Centre Stage front camera, which features the first square front camera sensor on an iPhone. This update offers an 18MP resolution for photos and enables both landscape and portrait selfies without the need to rotate the device. Centre Stage for photos also uses artificial intelligence to automatically expand the field of view and rotate the orientation to include all participants in group photos. For video calls, the camera maintains user position, and the device enables simultaneous recording on the front and rear cameras using Dual Capture functionality.
The rear camera system has also been enhanced, now featuring 48MP cameras across the main and ultra-wide sensors. The 48MP Fusion Main camera includes an optical-quality 2x Telephoto capability, while the new 48MP Fusion Ultra Wide camera offers up to four times the resolution of its predecessor, supporting wider-angle shots and macro photography. Video recording is available in 4K at 60fps with Dolby Vision, and Spatial Audio is included for an immersive listening experience. Features like Audio Mix and wind noise reduction have been added for greater post-capture flexibility, and spatial photos and videos can be produced for use with Apple Vision Pro.
“iPhone 17 is a big upgrade with powerful features that make iPhone even more useful in your day-to-day life, from the bigger and brighter ProMotion display with 3x better scratch resistance, to all-day battery life with faster charging, the A19 chip for powerful performance, a fantastic 48MP Dual Fusion camera system, and the innovative Centre Stage front camera – our best front camera yet,” said Kaiann Drance, Apple’s vice president of Worldwide iPhone Product Marketing. “iPhone 17 is a fantastic choice for customers looking for the latest features and the confidence in knowing their iPhone is built to last.”
The iPhone 17’s 6.3-inch Super Retina XDR display includes ProMotion technology, supporting adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz for smoother interactions and improved energy efficiency. The Always-On display feature provides continuous access to widgets, time, and Live Activities, with the display adjusting down to 1Hz when not in active use. The display achieves 3,000 nits peak outdoor brightness, double the outdoor contrast of previous models, and boasts Ceramic Shield 2, which improves scratch resistance threefold and reduces glare compared to the prior generation.
The device is powered by the newly introduced A19 chip, built using third-generation 3-nanometre technology. With a 6-core CPU that is 1.5 times faster and a 5-core GPU that is more than twice as fast as the A15 Bionic found in the iPhone 13, the chip provides a marked increase in performance and efficiency. Neural Accelerators embedded in each GPU core allow the device to run advanced generative artificial intelligence models on-device. Battery improvements are also seen with up to 30 hours of video playback, eight hours more than the previous iteration, and support for rapid charging – up to 50 percent in 20 minutes with an appropriate USB-C power adapter. The Adaptive Power Mode in iOS 26, launching with iPhone 17, conserves power based on typical user patterns.
Connectivity upgrades come through the new N1 chip, introducing support for Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread, improving personal hotspot and AirDrop reliability.
Software and features
The iPhone 17 launches with iOS 26, which includes a redesigned interface and Apple Intelligence capabilities. Features offered include Live Translation for text and audio communications in supported languages, new visual intelligence features for capturing and searching content, and an on-device foundation model available to developers, enabling privacy-based intelligent features even when offline. Call and message screening tools have been improved, and updates to apps such as CarPlay, Apple Music, Maps, and the introduction of the Apple Games app are part of the package.
Accessory range
Among accessory updates, Apple offers a Silicone Case with MagSafe in five colours and the new Crossbody Strap, designed for hands-free use and available in ten colour options. The strap is made from 100 percent recycled yarns and features embedded magnets and stainless steel mechanisms for easy adjustment.
Environmental measures
The company states that iPhone 17 is composed of 30 percent recycled content, utilising 85 percent recycled aluminium in its enclosure and 100 percent recycled cobalt in its battery. The device is manufactured with 35 percent renewable electricity in the supply chain. Packaging for the device is fully fibre-based and recyclable, supporting the goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2030.
Availability and pricing
The iPhone 17 is available in lavender, mist blue, sage, white, and black, and comes in 256GB and 512GB storage configurations. Pricing begins at AUD $1,399 GST inclusive. In Australia, customers trading in eligible devices may receive up to AUD $1,205 in credit, depending on the device condition, year, and configuration. Customers in over 63 countries and regions can pre-order the iPhone 17, with the device available for sale the following week. Additional accessories, such as clear and silicone cases, the Crossbody Strap, and the FineWoven Wallet with MagSafe, are also available for separate purchase.
iOS 26, Apple Intelligence in beta, and the Roadside Assistance via satellite feature, available through various motoring clubs, are being introduced in Australia. The satellite services will be extended for users of iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 in supporting regions for an additional year. iCloud+ subscription options remain available with expanded benefits and family sharing.
