Should You Wait for iPhone 17 Pro or Buy iPhone 16 Pro Now?
Apple’s yearly pattern of launching a new iPhone always sparks the same old debate: buy immediately or wait? With the iPhone 17 Pro released on September 9, 2025, and the iPhone 16 Pro still packing a punch, a few are wondering how to proceed. Let us break down the pros and cons of each so you can make the most informed choice.
iPhone 16 Pro: A Powerhouse
Released in September 2024, the iPhone 16 Pro remains one of Apple’s most advanced smartphones. It features:
- A18 Pro Chip: 6-core CPU and GPU with a 16-core Neural Engine for unparalleled speed
- Camera Control Button: A physical button providing easy control of camera settings
- Triple-lens Camera System: With a 48MP wide, 48MP ultra-wide, and 12MP 5x telephoto lens
- Titanium Frame: Lightweight yet durable
- Apple Intelligence: On-device AI features for writing, editing photos, and automating tasks
- ProMotion OLED display: 120Hz refresh up to 2000 nits peak brightness
The iPhone 16 Pro is ideal for the customer who needs bleeding-edge performance, exceptional photography, and premium build quality—with no waiting.
What to Expect from the iPhone 17 Pro
The iPhone 17 Pro will bring major improvements when it launches on September 9, 2025, with pre-orders opening September 12 and sales starting September 19.
Projected Features:
- A19 Pro Chip: Improved speed and upgraded AI capability
- 12GB RAM: Up from 8GB on the iPhone 16 Pro
- 48MP Telephoto Camera with 8x Optical Zoom: Redefining mobile photography
- Horizontal Camera Layout: Cosmetic makeover
- Slimmer Bezels and Weight Loss: Could be aluminium or a hybrid material
- iOS 26: Launch with AI and privacy enhancements
Apple is also rumored to boost base storage capacity to 256GB, which may justify a small price increase. iPhone 17 Pro will start at US$1,049.
Price Comparison
| Model | Starting Price (US) | Base Storage | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone 16 Pro | $999 | 128GB | Available now; includes A18 Pro chip |
| iPhone 17 Pro | $1,049 | 256GB | Expected launch: Sept 2025; A19 Pro chip |
Even though the iPhone 17 Pro will cost more, it has a larger internal storage and improved innards, and thus is a more rational long-term buy for heavy users.
Should You Wait?
Why You Should Wait for iPhone 17 Pro
- You wish to have the newest technology and a future-proofed spec
- You are curious about having advanced photography and AI features
- Your current phone is functioning well, and you don’t require an upgrade
Why You Should Buy iPhone 16 Pro Right Now
- You need a new phone immediately
- You prefer to pay slightly less
- You don’t mind not having the absolutely latest features
If your existing phone is underpowered or you’re upgrading from an older model (like iPhone 12 or earlier), then the iPhone 16 Pro is a great choice. However, if you can hold back for a few weeks, then the iPhone 17 Pro is worth waiting for with the additional improvements.
Final Verdict
If you’re a tech enthusiast, mobile photographer, or someone who keeps their phone for 3+ years, waiting for the iPhone 17 Pro makes sense. The jump in RAM, camera capabilities, and AI integration will likely be worth the wait.
However, if you’re upgrading now and want a reliable, high-performance device, the iPhone 16 Pro won’t disappoint. It’s still one of the best smartphones available and will continue to receive software updates for years.
FAQ
Q1: When will the iPhone 17 Pro be released?
A: Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 17 Pro on September 9, 2025, with pre-orders starting September 12 and availability from September 19.
Q2: What’s the most significant upgrade in the iPhone 17 Pro?
A: The most notable upgrades are the A19 Pro chip, 12GB RAM, 8x optical zoom, and minimized chassis design with lower bezels.
Q3: Will the iPhone 17 Pro cost more?
A: Yes, it will start at about $1,049, a bit higher than the iPhone 16 Pro, but with a minimum 256GB storage, which is worth paying for.
Q4: Is the iPhone 16 Pro worth purchasing?
A: Yes. It has excellent performance, camera, and build, and Apple Intelligence features support. It’s a great choice if you need one today.
Q5: Is iOS 26 arriving on iPhone 16 Pro?
A: Yes. iOS 26 will be available on iPhones back to the iPhone 11, including the iPhone 16 Pro.
