Apple’s upcoming iPhone 17 Pro is expected to start at 256 GB of storage, doubling the base capacity compared to last year’s 128 GB model. This upgrade comes with a $50 price increase, potentially setting the base price around $1,049. Despite the price bump, the new storage offering still presents better value than the previous iPhone 16 Pro’s 256 GB variant, which cost $1,099.
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Key Details and Expectations for iPhone 17 Pro
- The base iPhone 17 Pro model will reportedly drop the 128 GB option altogether.
- Latest leaks from Chinese tipster Instant Digital reveal this change ahead of the anticipated official launch on September 9, 2025.
- The rumored hardware specs for the iPhone 17 Pro include:
- Apple’s new A19 Pro chipset
- 12 GB RAM
- 6.3-inch Super Retina XDR display
- Triple rear camera setup with 48 MP sensors
- 24 MP front selfie camera
- The price hike is attributed to recent US tariffs, which are rumored to affect all iPhone 17 models, including the base iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Air.
Value Proposition Compared to Previous Models
- The base iPhone 16 Pro started at $999 with 128 GB, while the 256 GB option was $1,099.
- Even factoring in the $50 increase, the baseline iPhone 17 Pro with 256 GB is still a better deal for users needing more storage without paying a large premium.
- This move could attract users who want ample storage and top-tier specs without opting for higher-tier models.
Comparison With Competing Flagships
- The iPhone 17 Pro will compete with recently released flagships like the Huawei Pura 80 Ultra, which features a larger display (6.8 inches vs. 6.3 inches for iPhone 17 Pro) and a more photography-focused setup.
- The Huawei Pura 80 Ultra offers a quad camera system including a 50 MP primary sensor, whereas the iPhone sticks to a triple 48 MP camera arrangement.
- While Huawei leads with advanced camera hardware and a larger battery, Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro is expected to deliver top-tier performance with its A19 Pro chip and iOS 26 optimizations.
Anticipated Launch and Market Impact
- The iPhone 17 series, including the Pro model with upgraded base storage, is set for launch in early September 2025.
- The increased base storage at a marginal price increase is a strategic enhancement that could improve the perceived value of the Pro model and aid in sales against competitive Android flagships.
the iPhone 17 Pro’s doubled base storage capacity and minimal price hike position it as a strong contender in the premium smartphone segment. With powerful internals, refined design, and capable cameras, it aims to appeal to users looking for both performance and value in the upcoming flagship lineup.