Fresh iPhone 17 Rumors Just Dropped: Here Are 6 Reasons to Skip the iPhone 16
- iPhone 16 might be shiny, but the iPhone 17 is rumored to be razor-thin.
- Your selfie game is about to level up—a 24MP front camera is rumored in 2025.
- All 2025 iPhone models with 120Hz screens? The iPhone 17 might FINALLY deliver.
- No notch, no problem: Under-display Face ID might be just around the corner.
- Apple Intelligence? It won't fully hit until next year anyway. (Our estimate: March 2025)
1. Apple Intelligence Isn’t Even Here Yet
One of the iPhone 16’s big selling points was Apple Intelligence—Apple's highly anticipated suite of AI features. However, the way Apple has structured the rollout has been underwhelming, with key components like advanced AI features mostly delayed until 2025. This means that even if you upgrade to the iPhone 16, you won’t be able to access the full capabilities of Apple Intelligence for some time.
Apple Scoop currently estimates that Apple Intelligence won't be fully available on iPhone 16 (or compatible iPhone 15 models for that matter) until some time around March 2025. That's 6 months away. If you’re an AI enthusiast, waiting for the iPhone 17 might be the smarter move. By 2025, Apple is expected to have perfected its AI platform, ensuring you get the most out of features like advanced photo editing, voice recognition, and predictive text.
Photo via Apple Inc. // Craig Federighi introducing Apple Intelligence at WWDC24
2. iPhone 17’s Groundbreaking 2nm Chipset Could Leave iPhone 16 Behind
The iPhone 16 series might be getting all the attention right now, but Apple enthusiasts have their eyes set on the iPhone 17's potentially game-changing chipset. Current reports suggest that the iPhone 17 Pro models could be the first to feature TSMC’s highly anticipated 2nm process.
These 2nm chips are expected to improve performance by 10% to 15% while reducing power consumption by 25% to 30%. Those two things combined make for a faster, more efficient device that will outshine even the most powerful iPhone 16 models.
3. A Bigger and Better Display for the iPhone 17 Standard Models
If you're someone who prefers the non-Pro models but still craves a premium experience, the iPhone 17 may be the one to wait for. Rumors suggest the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Plus could sport larger displays—6.27 inches and 6.86 inches, respectively. That’s a slight bump up from the iPhone 16 lineup, which offers 6.12-inch and 6.69-inch screens.
Even better? Both standard models are rumored to get ProMotion technology, (YES!) bringing a 120Hz refresh rate, something that's currently reserved for the iPhone 16 Pro series. This upgrade would make scrolling, gaming, and video streaming a whole lot smoother, offering a richer visual experience. How this will impact Apple's ability to differentiate the standard and Pro models to consumers remains to be seen.
4. Say Hello to a 24MP Selfie Camera
Apple’s iPhone 16 is sticking with a 12MP selfie camera—identical to what we’ve seen since the iPhone 14. But if you’re someone who loves snapping selfies, waiting for the iPhone 17 may be worth it. Industry leaks suggest the iPhone 17 could introduce a 24MP front camera, a serious upgrade for selfie lovers.
As smartphone cameras become more important in our daily lives, this higher resolution would allow for sharper, more detailed selfies, making this the biggest change to the iPhone’s front-facing camera in years.
5. A New iPhone “Air” Model Could Replace the Plus
One of the most interesting rumors circulating is that Apple might ditch the “Plus” model in favor of something new: the iPhone 17 Air. This new model would reportedly come with a slimmer and lighter profile—5.1mm thick compared to the iPhone 16 Pro’s 8mm, making it one of the thinnest iPhones to date.
According to analysts like Ming-Chi Kuo and Jeff Pu, the Air will likely feature a single rear camera and cater to those who want a more affordable yet sleek option. If these rumors hold, the iPhone 17 Air could offer a fresh, minimalist design that's hard to resist.
Photo via YouTube // A look at what Apple's upcoming slim iPhone 17 (17 Air) might look like.
Editors note: While this seems plausible, it may very well be that the 17 Air replaces the Pro Max model, rather than the Plus. But hey, we don't make the rumors, we just report on them.
6. Under-Display Face ID and Anti-Reflective Glass
One of the most exciting developments rumored for the iPhone 17 is under-display Face ID, which would eliminate the need for a notch and offer a cleaner, more seamless screen. This is a big deal for those who want a more immersive display experience.
Additionally, Apple may introduce an anti-reflective, scratch-resistant glass that's reportedly more durable than the current Ceramic Shield. This would further enhance the user experience, especially in bright outdoor conditions.
Photo via Reddit // Will the iPhone 17 have an under-display Face ID sensor? It feels like we've been reporting on this for years, but analysts are saying 2025 could be the year it really happens. I guess time will tell!
Final Thoughts: Is the iPhone 16 Worth It?
While the iPhone 16 series offers respectable upgrades, it’s becoming clear that Apple may be setting the stage for something truly groundbreaking in 2025. If you’re due for an upgrade but aren’t impressed by what the iPhone 16 has to offer, it may be worth holding off for another year.
From the next-gen 2nm chipset to the bigger display and better selfie camera, the iPhone 17 promises to deliver meaningful improvements that could make it a much more compelling choice.
So, are you willing to wait for the iPhone 17, or will you go for the iPhone 16 now? Let us know your thoughts!
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Published to Apple Scoop on 18th September, 2024.
