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the best iphones Apple has unveiled its latest iPhone lineup, marking a significant evolution in its smartphone offerings.

the best iphones

Introduction to the 2025 iPhone Lineup

If you’ve been contemplating an upgrade to your iPhone, now is an opportune moment to explore the new options available. Apple recently launched its 2025 iPhone lineup, which includes the iPhone 17, 17 Pro, 17 Pro Max, and a new ultra-thin model, the iPhone Air. These devices come equipped with various enhancements over their predecessors, featuring upgraded cameras, faster processors, improved battery life, and enhanced display technology. However, the much-anticipated Apple Intelligence is still evolving and has yet to reach its full potential.

iOS 26: A New Era of Software

In conjunction with the new hardware, Apple has also introduced iOS 26, a significant leap from iOS 18. This new operating system features a redesigned Liquid Glass user interface, live translation capabilities, customizable wallpapers in messages, and more. The visual overhaul marks Apple’s most substantial redesign since iOS 7, eliciting mixed reactions from users and critics alike. While some embrace the fresh look, others find it polarizing. Regardless, it’s clear that Apple is committed to pushing the boundaries of its software offerings.

Should You Upgrade?

If your current iPhone is functioning well, there may be no immediate need to rush into a new purchase. However, if you’re considering whether to replace an older model, the answer is likely yes. The enhancements in this year’s models, particularly the iPhone 17, are substantial. Notably, the iPhone 17 features a higher-refresh-rate display compared to last year’s model, resulting in smoother animations. Additionally, it doubles the base storage to 256GB without increasing the price, which is particularly impressive given the current tariff situation.

The Best iPhone for Most People: iPhone 17

Score: 8

Pros: Always-on display, high refresh rate, solid camera performance, all-day battery life, unchanged pricing.
Cons: No redesign, weaker zoom capabilities compared to Pro models, device heats up during heavy gaming, Apple Intelligence is still underdeveloped.

Where to Buy: $799 at Apple (256GB), $829.99 at Best Buy (256GB)

Screen: 6.3-inch 2622 x 1206 OLED, 120Hz refresh rate
Processor: A19
Cameras: 48-megapixel f/1.6 main with sensor-shift IS; 48-megapixel ultrawide; 18-megapixel selfie
Battery: Not advertised
Charging: 40W wired, 25W wireless MagSafe / Qi2
Weather-resistance rating: IP68

The iPhone 17 signifies a pivotal moment for the standard model. After years of being overshadowed by its Pro counterparts, the base model finally receives two major upgrades for 2025: an always-on display and a high-refresh-rate panel. These features enhance the user experience, making it feel significantly better than the iPhone 16 and earlier models. At the same starting price of $799, this update is a compelling choice for potential buyers.

While the iPhone 17 retains the 48-megapixel main camera from last year, the ultrawide camera has been upgraded from a 12-megapixel sensor to a 48-megapixel sensor, resulting in sharper and more vibrant photos. The device also features an 18-megapixel Center Stage selfie camera, which is shared with the Air and 17 Pro models. Although the selfie quality may not see a drastic improvement, the square sensor design allows for horizontal selfies while holding the phone vertically, enhancing the user experience.

Moreover, Apple has doubled the storage capacity from 128GB to 256GB in the base model, along with improved battery life. While the iPhone 17 still lacks a telephoto camera and the A19 chip is slower than the A19 Pro found in the Pro models, it represents a significant upgrade in almost every aspect, even if its design remains consistent with previous iterations.

The Best High-End iPhone: iPhone 17 Pro

Score: 8

Pros: Solid battery life, brighter outdoor display, upgraded Center Stage camera, faster charging.
Cons: Heavier than last year, some features may not justify an upgrade.

Where to Buy: $1099 at Apple (256GB), $1099.99 at Best Buy (256GB), $1299 at Apple (512GB)

Screen: 6.3-inch 2622 x 1206 OLED, 120Hz refresh rate
Processor: A19 Pro
Cameras: 48-megapixel f/1.78 with sensor-shift IS; 48-megapixel 8x telephoto with OIS; 48-megapixel ultrawide; 18-megapixel selfie
Battery: Not advertised
Charging: 40W wired, 25W MagSafe / Qi2
Weather-resistance rating: IP68

The iPhone 17 Pro introduces an eye-catching redesign and a host of notable upgrades, including the most advanced camera setup in the lineup. With rounded edges and a performance level on par with the 17 Pro Max, the Pro model is tailored for creators. It features three 48-megapixel cameras, including a telephoto lens, and offers several pro-level features for photography and videography.

Some of these features include Genlock support, which allows videographers to synchronize timecodes across multiple cameras, and ProRes RAW recording capabilities. The upgraded Center Stage selfie camera is also included, enhancing video calls and selfies alike. Despite these improvements, the 17 Pro may not be a compelling upgrade for everyone, but its new orange color adds a fresh touch to the lineup.

The iPhone with the Best Battery Life: iPhone 17 Pro Max

Score: 8

Pros: Exceptional battery life, bright outdoor display, upgraded Center Stage camera, faster charging.
Cons: Heavier than previous models, some features may not be groundbreaking.

Where to Buy: $1199 at Apple (256GB), $1199.99 at Best Buy (256GB), $1399 at Apple (512GB)

Screen: 6.9-inch 2868 x 1320 OLED, 120Hz refresh rate
Processor: A19 Pro
Cameras: 48-megapixel f/1.78 with sensor-shift IS; 48-megapixel 8x telephoto with OIS; 48-megapixel ultrawide; 18-megapixel selfie
Battery: Not advertised
Charging: 40W wired, 25W MagSafe / Qi2
Weather-resistance rating: IP68

The iPhone 17 Pro Max’s redesign extends beyond aesthetics. Apple has engineered the device’s aluminum frame to accommodate the largest battery ever in an iPhone. The company claims the device offers up to 39 hours of video playback, a remarkable increase of 12 hours compared to the iPhone 16 Plus, which previously held the title for the best battery life. Users can expect the device to easily last through a full day, although actual performance may vary based on usage patterns.

In addition to its impressive battery life, the 17 Pro Max boasts the largest display in the new lineup at 6.9 inches, along with storage options of up to 2TB, catering to content creators who require ample space for media storage. For those seeking the most comprehensive iPhone experience, including extended battery life, the 17 Pro Max is the optimal choice.

The Best iPhone for People Who Hate Bulky Phones: iPhone Air

Score: 7

Pros: Slim and lightweight design, comfortable for extended use.
Cons: Battery life is subpar compared to other models, lacks an ultrawide camera.

Where to Buy: $999 at Apple (256GB), $999.99 at Best Buy (256GB), $1199 at Apple (512GB)

Screen: 6.5-inch 2736 x 1260 OLED, 120Hz refresh rate
Processor: A19 Pro
Cameras: 48-megapixel f/1.6 main with sensor-shift IS; 18-megapixel selfie
Battery: Not advertised
Charging: 30W wired, 20W MagSafe / Qi2
Weather-resistance rating: IP68

The iPhone Air represents Apple’s most significant redesign since the iPhone X was released in 2017. Its strikingly thin and lightweight design, measuring just 5.6mm and weighing 165 grams, makes it exceptionally portable. The titanium frame and Ceramic Shield 2 display enhance its durability, despite its delicate appearance. The device feels surprisingly compact, even with a 6.5-inch display, making it an appealing option for those who prioritize portability.

However, the slim design comes with notable compromises. The Air features a single 48-megapixel camera on the back, which, while capable, lacks the versatility of the dual-camera system found in the iPhone 17. Additionally, battery life is merely average, which may deter users who rely heavily on their devices throughout the day. At a price point of $999, the iPhone Air may not justify its cost for those who prioritize battery life and camera performance over design.

The Best Inexpensive-ish iPhone: iPhone 16E

The iPhone 16E serves as the spiritual successor to the iPhone SE, offering flagship-level performance at a lower price point than the standard iPhone 16. While it’s a solid choice for those upgrading from older models, it does come with some caveats.

Score: 7

Pros: Reliable performance, decent camera system, most affordable new iPhone option.
Cons: Lacks MagSafe, feels overpriced at $599, no ultrawide camera.

Where to Buy: $599 at Apple, $599.99 at Best Buy, $599.99 at Verizon

Screen: 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR
Processor: A18
Cameras: 48MP Fusion with 1x and 2x optical zoom, 12-megapixel selfie
Battery: Not advertised
Charging: 20-watt wired, 7.5W Qi, no MagSafe
Weather-resistance rating: IP68

While the iPhone 16E is the most affordable new iPhone Apple offers, its $599 price tag may feel excessive considering its limitations. It lacks MagSafe, which has become a standard feature in newer models, and it also misses out on the ultrawide camera and other advanced features. Although it supports Apple Intelligence, its current state leaves much to be desired.

Despite these drawbacks, the 16E is a viable option for those seeking a straightforward entry into the Apple ecosystem. It will likely receive more years of software support than older models, making it a practical choice for users who prioritize longevity and reliability over cutting-edge features.

What’s Coming Next?

While Apple’s latest iPhone lineup is now available, speculation about future releases is already circulating. Reports suggest that Apple is developing a book-style foldable iPhone for 2026, which may resemble two iPhone Air models placed side by side. The company is reportedly working to minimize the crease that appears when the device is unfolded, but the design is said to be largely settled. Looking further ahead to 2027, Apple is rumored to be planning an all-screen iPhone to commemorate the device’s 20th anniversary. These upcoming releases are part of Apple’s three-year strategy aimed at refreshing its smartphone lineup.

Conclusion

Apple’s 2025 iPhone lineup offers a range of options catering to various user needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for the best overall device, the most advanced features, or a more budget-friendly option, there’s an iPhone that fits your criteria. As Apple continues to innovate and expand its offerings, consumers can look forward to exciting developments in the smartphone landscape.

Source: Original report