Check detailed iPhone 17 vs iPhone 16 comparison to know which iteration brings significant upgrades 120hz promotion display, a faster A19 chip, and an all-new 48mp ultra wide camera.
The iPhone 17 may introduce several refinements over its predecessor, the iPhone 16, with subtle yet meaningful upgrades in performance, battery life, and software support. While both belong to Apple’s standard flagship line-up, this comparison will help you decide whether the newer model justifies an upgrade or if the iPhone 16 remains a viable choice in 2026.
Here’s a quick comparison of the core specifications between iPhone 17 and iPhone 16:
| Feature |
iPhone 17 |
iPhone 16 |
|---|---|---|
| Launch |
September 2025 (Rumoured) |
September 2024 |
| Display |
6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED |
6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED |
| Processor |
Apple A18 (3 nm) |
Apple A17 Pro (3 nm) |
| RAM & Storage |
8 GB RAM, up to 1 TB storage |
6 GB RAM, up to 512 GB storage |
| Rear Camera Setup |
Dual 48 MP (wide + ultra-wide) |
Dual 48 MP (wide + ultra-wide) |
| Front Camera |
12 MP |
12 MP |
| Battery |
3,877 mAh (typical) |
3,659 mAh (typical) |
| Charging |
20W wired, MagSafe wireless |
20W wired, MagSafe wireless |
| OS |
iOS 19 |
iOS 18 |
| 5G Support |
Yes |
Yes |
Disclaimer: Features may vary depending on model, configuration, and region. For the latest and most accurate details, please visit the official website or consult authorised retailers.
Both models retain the aluminium frame and Ceramic Shield front, with nearly identical dimensions. However, the iPhone 17 may introduce slight refinements in weight distribution and overall handling.
| Attribute |
iPhone 17 |
iPhone 16 |
|---|---|---|
| Frame Material |
Aluminium |
Aluminium |
| Back Material |
Glass |
Glass |
| Dimensions |
Approx. 147.6 x 71.6 x 7.8 mm |
Approx. 147.6 x 71.6 x 7.8 mm |
| Weight |
Approx. 171 g |
Approx. 172 g |
| Colour Variants |
Blue, Silver, Midnight, Pink |
Blue, Black, White, Yellow |
Here are the details that help you compare:
| Camera Feature |
iPhone 17 |
iPhone 16 |
|---|---|---|
| Main Camera |
48 MP (f/1.6) |
48 MP (f/1.6) |
| Ultra-Wide |
12 MP |
12 MP |
| Front Camera |
12 MP (f/1.9) |
12 MP (f/1.9) |
| Night Mode |
Improved night capture |
Standard night mode |
| Video Capabilities |
4K at 60fps, Cinematic Mode, HDR |
4K at 60fps, Cinematic Mode, HDR |
The rumoured A18 chipset in the iPhone 17 may offer improved efficiency and graphics performance. Battery life may also be slightly better, providing longer screen-on time.
| Feature |
iPhone 17 |
iPhone 16 |
|---|---|---|
| Processor |
Apple A18 (6-core CPU) |
Apple A17 Pro (6-core CPU) |
| RAM |
8 GB |
6 GB |
| Storage Options |
128 GB to 1 TB |
128 GB to 512 GB |
| Battery Capacity |
3,877 mAh |
3,659 mAh |
| Charging |
20W wired, MagSafe |
20W wired, MagSafe |
| Battery Life |
Up to 21 hours video playback |
Up to 20 hours video playback |
While both phones offer similar iOS experiences, the iPhone 17 may benefit from newer features and a longer update window.
| Feature |
iPhone 17 |
iPhone 16 |
|---|---|---|
| Operating System |
iOS 19 |
iOS 18 |
| Update Cycle |
Likely till iOS 24 |
Likely till iOS 23 |
| Face ID |
Yes |
Yes |
| Dynamic Island |
Yes |
Yes |
| Satellite Connectivity |
Yes (New SOS Features) |
Yes (Basic) |
Refer table below:
| Variant |
iPhone 17 |
iPhone 16 |
|---|---|---|
| 128 GB |
- |
₹69900 |
| 256 GB |
₹82900 |
₹79900 |
| 512 GB |
₹102900 |
₹99900 |
Disclaimer: Prices may vary depending on region, model, and current offers. Always refer to the official website or authorised retailers for the latest pricing.
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Note: The specifications, features, and pricing provided are based on publicly available information and sources. Actual details may vary upon official release.
The iPhone 16, available in India, features the new A18 chip, a 6.3-inch display, and the Action Button. The iPhone 17, which is only rumoured internationally and not yet launched in India, is expected to carry the A17 chip with a 6.1-inch screen.
Yes. The iPhone 16 commands a higher price at launch due to its upgraded chipset, refreshed design, and exclusive features like the Action Button. The iPhone 17’s Indian availability and pricing remain unconfirmed.
The iPhone 16 delivers slightly better battery performance, thanks to its larger build and A18 chip efficiency. As the iPhone 17 is not officially released in India, comparisons are based only on international leaks and cannot be fully validated.
Both devices are said to feature Super Retina XDR OLED displays at 60Hz. The iPhone 16’s 6.3-inch panel provides a larger viewing area. However, since the iPhone 17 is still rumoured, actual display quality cannot be confirmed for India.
Yes. The iPhone 16 brings the Action Button, a bigger screen, and the A18 chip. These features are not part of the rumoured iPhone 17 specifications, which are yet to be verified.
If you want the latest processor, a slightly larger screen, and the new Action Button, the iPhone 16 is a strong choice. Since the iPhone 17 has not launched in India, an upgrade decision should be based only on the currently available iPhone 16.