iPhone 16 vs iPhone 17: should you wait for next year's iPhone?

If you are still wondering if you should buy the new iPhone 16 now or wait for iPhones next year, based on rumours, here is what you can expect from the iPhone 17 in 2025.

In Short

• iPhone 17 expected with 120Hz display in 2025
• New iPhone 17 Air model to replace Plus series
• Combined volume rocker and action button in iPhone 17

Apple launched the iPhone 16 series last month, and a few weeks ago, the new phones were made available for purchase. Many people may have already bought new iPhones in the recent Amazon and Flipkart sales. There were some incredible discounts available. But if you are still wondering if you should be upgrading to iPhone 16 this year, or if you should wait for the iPhone 17 release next year, this article is for you. Apple has not made anything official about next year’s iPhones yet, but there have been plenty of leaks that let us know what we can expect from the Apple 2025 flagship phones.

iPhone 17: What to expect

Apple is reportedly planning major updates for its iPhone 17 lineup, which is set to launch in September 2025. A key feature rumoured for the iPhone 17 series is the introduction of ProMotion technology to standard models, offering a 120Hz display — a feature currently exclusive to Pro models. This has also been one of the most common complaints of users, who were disappointed that the new non-Pro iPhone 16s still offers a 60Hz display.

Adding more excitement, Apple is expected to introduce a new iPhone 17 Air model, replacing the underperforming Plus series. The iPhone 17 Air will reportedly be the thinnest iPhone yet, boasting a 120Hz display like its counterparts. Interestingly, this redesign will incorporate a combined volume rocker and action button for a sleeker profile, a feature also likely to appear on the Pro versions.

Industry insider Ross Young has further stirred speculation, noting the potential for a higher refresh rate in the iPhone 17 series. This could prompt users to skip the iPhone 16 release in anticipation of next year’s more advanced technology.

Apple’s experimentation with its lineup mirrors past efforts like the introduction of the iPhone mini, which was eventually discontinued due to lacklustre sales. The potential phase-out of the Plus model signals Apple's pivot towards more streamlined offerings like the Air, which could offer the commercial success the Plus series lacked.

Apple's strategic choices in design and technology for the iPhone 17 series are already generating considerable anticipation, making it one of the most closely watched product cycles in the company’s history. These changes could also lead to users holding off on upgrading to the iPhone 16 series, as the 17 series promises significant enhancements. The tech world is eagerly watching how Apple’s strategic decisions will impact future sales and the overall smartphone landscape.