iPhone 17 Pro Review: Fresh Design, Zoom Still Steals the Show

iPhone 17 Pro Introduces New Design and Features

The iPhone 17 Pro marks Apple’s most significant redesign in years, replacing the previous titanium edges and glass back with an aluminum unibody construction. The device features a prominent full-width camera array on the rear and comes in more vibrant color options.

The changes are likely to appeal to those seeking an upgrade, though the price has risen to £1,099 (€1,299/$1,099/A$1,999), exceeding £1,000 for the first time on Apple’s smallest Pro model. Storage capacity now starts at double the previous base amount.

From the front, the Pro resembles recent models, with the Dynamic Island cutout at the top of the screen. The display remains one of the best available, matching the standard iPhone 17, which has also been updated this year.

The aluminum edges have been slightly rounded, improving grip without making the device too slippery. At 204g, it is now slightly heavier, crossing the 200g threshold for a smaller phone.

A glass panel, slightly larger than a credit card, is embedded in the aluminum body for wireless charging compatibility. The large camera module at the top is more prominent than those found on competing devices. While aluminum is less prone to shattering than glass, it can show scratches more easily, particularly around the camera area, making a protective case a practical choice.

The phone runs iOS 26, which introduces Apple’s new interface design. Some users have noted mixed reactions to its transparency effects, which can occasionally make buttons and other elements blend into the background.

### Specifications

Screen: 6.3-inch Super Retina XDR (120Hz OLED, 460ppi)
Processor: Apple A19 Pro
RAM: 12GB
Storage: 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB
Operating system: iOS 26
Camera: 48MP main, 48MP ultrawide, 48MP 4x zoom, 18MP front
Connectivity: 5G, Wi-Fi 7, NFC, Bluetooth 6, Thread, USB-C, Satellite, UWB, GNSS
Water resistance: IP68 (6m for 30 minutes)
Dimensions: 150 × 71.9 × 8.75mm
Weight: 204g

Improved Performance with A19 Pro Chip

The iPhone 17 Pro includes Apple’s new A19 Pro chip, paired with a vapor chamber cooling system—a first for an iPhone. This design helps dissipate heat more effectively, maintaining performance during extended use.

The cooling works as intended, with the back staying noticeably cooler than on previous models during heavy use, such as gaming. Battery life has also improved, lasting approximately 42 hours between charges with around six hours of active screen time—two hours longer than before.