For those who’re able to improve your iPhone, you would possibly need to anticipate just a bit longer.
Apple on Tuesday despatched out invitations for its annual fall occasion, throughout which it sometimes unveils the subsequent iPhone. The keynote is slated for Sept. 9, which implies we might see the iPhone 17 collection in only a matter of weeks. So in the event you cling tight, you may both rating the newest system or get a reduction on earlier fashions.
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Newer iPhones have a tendency to incorporate digital camera and processor upgrades, in addition to new options to make them extra attractive. As an example, the iPhone 14 Professional fashions launched Dynamic Island, the iPhone 15 Professional and Professional Max debuted the Motion button, and the iPhone 16 collection added the Digital camera Management button and Apple Intelligence throughout the complete lineup, fairly than on simply the Professional fashions.
In accordance with leaks and experiences, the iPhone 17 lineup, which Apple technically has but to verify, might have a contemporary digital camera setup and new shade choices and, maybe most notably, might embody a slimmer model of the iPhone to compete with comparable choices like Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Edge. It’s going to possible arrive with the not too long ago introduced iOS 26, which options Apple’s largest software program design shakeup in over a decade.
You may take a look at our iPhone 17 rumor roundup for extra on what could be coming within the fall.
Will ready for the iPhone 17 be value it?
General, iPhone upgrades during the last a number of years have been comparatively modest. And it is possible, based mostly on rumors, that the iPhone 17 lineup will typically comply with that mould.
However even with extra average modifications, now’s not time to purchase a brand new iPhone, in the event you may also help it. We’re only a couple weeks away from the anticipated launch of Apple’s subsequent smartphone. So in the event you maintain on slightly longer, you may snag that flashy new system when it drops, possible in September, based mostly on earlier iPhone launches.
For those who purchase a brand new iPhone 16 now, you will most likely pay full value for one thing that in only a few weeks’ time will technically be outdated (the tough actuality of the annual cellphone launch cycle). And even in the event you get deal by your provider now, in the event you stick it out only a bit longer, you would doubtlessly get an much more profitable deal as soon as the iPhone 17 drops and carriers ramp up their promotions.
If something, ready to see what the iPhone 17 has in retailer might not less than aid you affirm whether or not going with the most recent system or an older one just like the iPhone 16 or 15 is value it. In any case, if the variations are minimal, you would possibly as effectively save a few hundred {dollars} by selecting a earlier mannequin. And likelihood is — if the iPhone 17 is something just like the final a number of iPhones — nobody will even have the ability to inform.
However what about tariffs?
One massive unknown is whether or not tariffs will have an effect on the worth of the iPhone 17, which might sway your buying choices. Whereas smartphones and computer systems got an exemption from President Donald Trump’s extra in depth tariffs, he not too long ago mentioned Apple will nonetheless need to pay a 25% tariff on iPhones made outdoors the US. This is able to nearly actually result in a value hike.
However even with out tariffs, the iPhone is due for a markup, in accordance with CNET’s Patrick Holland. “The iPhone hasn’t had a value hike in 5 years and is due for one,” he writes. “Traditionally, that is the longest stretch of time the corporate has gone with out a rise.” (You may take a look at extra of his ideas right here.)
So, is it nonetheless value ready for the iPhone 17? It relies upon. For those who have been already planning on buying a brand new iPhone and might’t wait for much longer, I can perceive panic-buying now. However keep in mind you will nonetheless possible pay full value for an iPhone 16 mannequin that can be value much less the second the iPhone 17 drops. So, you could be coughing up extra for an iPhone 17, however not less than you will get extra bang to your buck.
So, when’s the perfect time to purchase a brand new iPhone?
There’s not essentially a “greatest” time to purchase a brand new iPhone, since costs are fairly constant all year long, however the fall is an attractive choice. That is when Apple introduces its newest slate of iPhones, and when carriers are keen to draw new clients with considerable trade-in offers and promotions. And once more, even when you do not need the newest and biggest iPhone, you may not less than snag an older model at a reduction proper after the iPhone 17 drops.
Typically, we suggest upgrading to a brand new cellphone in case your present one is greater than two generations outdated. You may sometimes wring extra life out of your system, however if you wish to keep on high of the newest options like Apple Intelligence, leveling up is the best way to go. And with only a couple extra weeks left earlier than the anticipated drop of the iPhone 17, you would possibly as effectively see what contemporary capabilities Apple has up its sleeve.