Discover the groundbreaking new features across the camera, CPU and Ceramic Shield.
Apple lovers, it’s that time of year again. Apple has launched its new iPhones: the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max and the iPhone Air in the UAE. In true Silicon Valley style, Apple held its annual product launch at its headquarters in California, unveiling the new models in all their tech-tastic glory.
Apple continues to push the boundaries of what is possible with a smartphone. Let’s be honest, making a call is probably the last thing you do with your phone. Here’s everything you need to know about the latest iPhones.
iPhone 17
The iPhone 17 features four new models in a beautiful, durable design. The models come in five colours: Lavender, Mist Blue, Black, White and Sage. The phone is powered by Apple Silicon, the A19 chip. The technology is faster and more efficient, with an improved Neural Engine and next-generation 5-core GPU.
Ceramic Shield 2 makes the phone tougher, with added hardness to protect against everyday scratches. The display reaches 3,000 nits – the brightest ever on an iPhone – reducing glare for improved viewing in bright conditions.
iOS 26 introduces enhanced Apple Intelligence. Live Translation helps you communicate more easily across languages. Plus, the battery offers eight more hours of video playback compared to the iPhone 16.
The iPhone 17 features a 48MP Dual Fusion camera system, ideal for capturing high-quality images. The 24MP default resolution provides a balanced combination of clarity and file size. A 2x optical zoom gets you closer to your subject, while a new ultra-wide camera captures more detail.
The front-facing camera is designed for self-portraits and expressing your perspective. The Centre Stage feature offers improved resolution and flexible framing. This is the largest front-facing sensor ever on an iPhone – nearly twice the size of its predecessor – and offers four different compositions. As a result, you no longer need to rotate your phone to take landscape selfies. The front camera now reaches up to 18MP. Selfies and videos taken on the move are stabilised, and the phone runs on the latest version of iOS.
iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max
The iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max aim to redefine what it means to be a pro, and represents the most advanced iPhones to date. Both the design and capabilities have been completely reimagined. Abidur Chowdhury, Industrial Designer of the iPhone, explained: “Our intention was to make an iPhone that feels like a piece of the future.”
The models are available in Refined Silver, Deep Blue, and Cosmic Orange, with new finishes that complement the sleek design. The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max introduce an 18MP front-facing camera with a wider field of view — ideal for video calls and content creation. For the first time, all three rear cameras are 48MP, offering professional-grade quality across every lens.
The video capabilities of the Pro models set a new benchmark. Features include Dolby Vision HDR, 4K at 120fps, ProRes Log, and ACES. With ProRes RAW capture, users gain greater flexibility in post-production. Creative tools such as bullet time and time splicing — reminiscent of The Matrix — are now at your fingertips.
The phone features a powerful 6-core CPU and a high-performance 6-core GPU. The back glass has been reinforced, making it significantly more durable – up to four times more resistant to cracks — while also allowing increased internal space for a larger battery. The battery life supports up to 39 hours of video playback.
One standout innovation is a new approach to thermal management – the device now incorporates deionised water for improved cooling.
iPhone Air
The iPhone Air is unlike anything you’ve experienced before. Incredibly slim at just 5.6mm, it is the thinnest iPhone ever created – yet, it’s packed with Apple’s most advanced features to date.
Its display is not only stunning but also four times more resistant to cracks, ensuring durability without compromising on elegance. The device will be available in four refined finishes: Space Black, Cloud White, Light Gold, and Sky Blue.
Powered by Apple Silicon, the iPhone Air is designed to maximise both performance and efficiency. It features the all-new A19 Pro chip with a 6-core CPU, delivering lightning-fast responsiveness and seamless multitasking. The integrated Neural Accelerators bring MacBook-level power to your pocket and make the most demanding tasks feel effortless.
For the first time, Apple’s M1 chip enables the latest Wi-Fi technology, offering faster and more reliable connections. The new C1X modem is twice as fast as its predecessor, ensuring rapid downloads and smoother streaming.
Photography sees a major upgrade with a 48MP Fusion camera, capable of functioning as multiple lenses in one. The enhanced 2x Telephoto lens performs exceptionally in low light. The front-facing Centre Stage camera keeps you in frame without needing to rotate the device. Dual Capture allows simultaneous front and rear video recording – perfect for content creators.
How much does the iPhone 17 cost in the UAE?
The new iPhone 17 starts from AED 3,999 in the UAE, and the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max start from AED 4,699. If you want to stay on trend, you can trade in your old iPhone for a shiny new one.
The iPhone Air is eSIM-only and offers up to 40 hours of video playback, combining sleek design with powerful performance. The iPhone Air starts from AED 4,299.
When you trade in, this means that you take your old Apple products and use them to get money off of new products. So, depending on the model and the condition of your iPhone, you could save thousands of dirhams.
Where can I buy the iPhone 17 in the UAE?
Pre-orders for the iPhone 17 and iPhone Air in the UAE are available starting from 12 September 2025 and can be purchased from 19 September 2025.
Pre-order your new iPhone online from www.apple.com or the Apple App Store. Plus, pre-orders are accepted at Apple Stores across the UAE, including Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, Yas Mall Abu Dhabi and The Galleria Al Maryah Island.
Apple, we’re impressed.
GO: Visit www.apple.com for more information.