Apple’s iPhone 17 lineup brings major upgrades including 256GB base storage, a powerful A19 Pro chip, and 2TB capacity in the new Pro Max.
TLDR:
- All iPhone 17 models now start at 256GB of storage, doubling the previous base of 128GB
- iPhone 17 Pro Max introduces a massive 2TB option, the largest ever on an iPhone
- The new A19 Pro chip and advanced camera system power cutting-edge mobile gaming and photography
- eSIM-only models expand to more countries, offering better battery and enhanced security
What Happened?
Apple has officially launched the iPhone 17 lineup, and the most overlooked but meaningful change is that every new model starts with 256GB of storage. That includes the regular iPhone 17, the new iPhone Air, and the more powerful iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max.
For the first time, Apple is offering a 2TB storage option in the Pro Max model, along with a massive leap in performance thanks to the new A19 Pro chip and improved battery life.
AirPods Pro 3, the new Apple Watch lineup, iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and the all-new iPhone Air—here’s everything we just announced! pic.twitter.com/EDPNjpoUW8
— Tim Cook (@tim_cook) September 9, 2025
iPhone 17 Storage Gets a Serious Upgrade
Apple has doubled the baseline storage across the entire iPhone 17 lineup. Since the iPhone 13, entry-level models have stuck with 128GB, which many users found limiting, especially with modern apps, media, and high-resolution photos taking up more space than ever.
Now, the iPhone 17, 17 Pro, Pro Max, and the new iPhone Air all start at 256GB. Here’s how the storage and pricing breaks down:
- iPhone 17: 256GB ($799), 512GB ($999)
- iPhone Air: 256GB ($999), 512GB ($1,199), 1TB ($1,399)
- iPhone 17 Pro: 256GB ($1,099), 512GB ($1,299), 1TB ($1,499)
- iPhone 17 Pro Max: 256GB ($1,199), 512GB ($1,399), 1TB ($1,599), 2TB ($1,999)
Apple users have long requested more storage at the base level, and now it’s finally here. People tired of deleting apps and photos or upgrading to iCloud just to avoid “storage full” popups will find this a refreshing change.
A19 Pro Chip and New Camera Tech Push iPhone Forward
The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max come with the A19 Pro chip, Apple’s most powerful mobile processor yet. It supports smoother gaming, better performance, and improved energy efficiency. Both models also feature a new laser-welded aluminum unibody with a vapor chamber, offering better thermal performance for intensive use.
On the camera side, users get:
- Triple 48MP rear cameras: Main, Ultra Wide, and a new Telephoto
- 8x optical-quality zoom for the longest zoom on an iPhone ever
- 18MP Center Stage front camera for better selfies
- ProRes RAW, Apple Log 2, and genlock video features for pro creators
- Ceramic Shield 2 front and back for improved durability
eSIM Expansion and Longer Battery Life
In select countries, the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max are now eSIM-only, eliminating the physical SIM slot. This change frees up internal space, allowing for two extra hours of video playback and boosting battery life to up to 39 hours.
eSIM models are launching in the US, Canada, Japan, Mexico, the UAE, and other regions, offering more flexibility for travelers and better security for lost or stolen devices.
iOS 26 Adds Apple Intelligence and More
The new iPhones ship with iOS 26, bringing powerful AI features called Apple Intelligence, such as:
- Live Translation in Messages, FaceTime, and Phone
- On-device visual intelligence for screenshot analysis
- New call screening and message filtering tools
- A redesigned UI with Liquid Glass visuals
- Apple Games app, a new hub for mobile gaming
What TechKV Thinks?
Honestly, it’s about time Apple bumped the base storage. 128GB just wasn’t cutting it anymore, especially when most people are taking high-res videos, downloading games, and shooting in RAW. I’ve seen way too many friends run out of space way too quickly.
The 2TB option on the Pro Max is expensive, sure, but for content creators or people who hold onto their phones for years, it’s a huge plus. And I love that the eSIM is helping extend battery life. That’s a smart way to make use of the space and shows how Apple is finally optimizing design beyond aesthetics. Overall, this feels like a meaningful upgrade and not just a cosmetic refresh.
