Apple’s latest iPhone 17 series, revealed at the “Awe Dropping” event on September 9, 2025, at Apple Park in Cupertino, California, is here to dazzle tech fans. With four models—iPhone 16E, iPhone 17, iPhone Air, and iPhone 17 Pro—the lineup brings cutting-edge upgrades but comes with premium price tags.
Despite economic challenges like tariffs, the prices are surprisingly reasonable, offering value for the features. Wondering which iPhone suits your budget and needs? Let’s break down the models, their prices, and what makes them stand out.
What’s New in the iPhone 17 Series?
Apple introduced three new models—iPhone 17, iPhone Air, and iPhone 17 Pro—alongside the budget-friendly iPhone 16E, released earlier in 2025. Each phone packs unique upgrades, from slimmer designs to powerful chips and enhanced cameras. But with prices starting at $599 and climbing to $1,999, choosing the right model can be tricky. Here’s a closer look at each.
iPhone 16E: The Budget-Friendly Choice
Starting at $599
The iPhone 16E is Apple’s most affordable option, priced at $599 (₹52,900 in India). It skips premium features like the Dynamic Island cutout and comes in just black and white. According to CNET’s Patrick Holland, compromises were made to keep costs low, but it’s a solid pick for budget-conscious buyers looking for Apple’s reliability.
iPhone 17: The New Flagship Standard
Starting at $799
Priced at $799 (₹82,900 in India), the iPhone 17 is the entry-level flagship. It boasts the A19 chip, a brighter 6.3-inch Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion, and a 48MP dual-camera system. The upgraded 18MP Centre Stage front camera makes selfies and video calls sharper. It’s a great balance of performance and price for most users.
iPhone Air: Slim and Power-Efficient
Starting at $999
The iPhone Air, priced at $999 (₹119,900 in India), steals the show with its 5.64mm ultra-thin design and 165-gram weight. Apple calls it the “most power-efficient iPhone ever,” offering all-day battery life and a 6.6-inch display. With a single 48MP rear camera, it’s ideal for those who value sleek design over pro-level features.
iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max: Premium Powerhouses
Starting at $1,099 and $1,199
The iPhone 17 Pro ($1,099, ₹134,900 in India) and Pro Max ($1,199, ₹149,900 in India) are the priciest models, featuring a triple-camera system with a 48MP telephoto lens, A19 Pro chip, and a new orange color option. The Pro Max offers a 2TB storage variant at $1,999 (₹176,200 in India). CNET’s Andrew Lanxon notes that the Pro’s 256GB base storage matches last year’s iPhone 16 Pro 256GB price, making it a solid value.
Price Breakdown of the iPhone 17 Series
Here’s a quick look at the starting prices in the US and India (converted using $1 = ₹88.24, September 2025 rates):
| Model | US Price (USD) | India Price (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 16E | $599 | ₹52,900 |
| iPhone 17 | $799 | ₹82,900 |
| iPhone Air | $999 | ₹119,900 |
| iPhone 17 Pro | $1,099 | ₹134,900 |
| iPhone 17 Pro Max | $1,199 | ₹149,900 |
Note: Prices in India include taxes and may vary slightly due to exchange rate fluctuations.
Why Aren’t Prices Skyrocketing?
Despite tariffs and economic challenges, Apple kept price hikes modest. CNET’s James Bricknell notes that the prices align with inflation expectations, avoiding the steep jumps some feared. The doubled base storage (256GB) on the iPhone 17 and Pro models adds value, making the costs feel justified for the upgrades.
How to Get Your Hands on the iPhone 17 Series
Ready to upgrade? Pre-orders start on September 12, 2025, with sales kicking off on September 19. You can order through Apple’s website, physical stores, or e-commerce platforms like Flipkart and Amazon in India. Act fast—high-demand models like the iPhone 17 Pro Max may face shortages, especially in India.
Should You Buy the iPhone 17 Series?
- Choose iPhone 16E if you want an affordable iPhone with solid performance but don’t need premium features.
- Pick iPhone 17 for a balanced flagship with great cameras and a bright display.
- Go for iPhone Air if you love sleek, lightweight designs and efficiency.
- Opt for iPhone 17 Pro/Pro Max if you need top-tier cameras, performance, and storage for professional use.
FAQs About the iPhone 17 Series Prices
What are the starting prices for the iPhone 17 series?
The iPhone 16E starts at $599, iPhone 17 at $799, iPhone Air at $999, iPhone 17 Pro at $1,099, and iPhone 17 Pro Max at $1,199.
When can I buy the iPhone 17 series?
Pre-orders begin on September 12, 2025, with availability starting September 19, 2025.
Why are iPhone 17 prices higher than last year?
Modest price hikes reflect inflation and doubled base storage (256GB), but tariffs didn’t cause a major jump.
Is the iPhone Air worth $999?
Yes, if you prioritize a slim design, all-day battery life, and efficiency. It’s less suited for pro-level photography.
Where can I pre-order the iPhone 17 in India?
You can pre-order through Apple’s website, Apple stores, or e-commerce platforms like Flipkart and Amazon.