iPhone 17 vs iPhone 16, What is new?

Aspect	iPhone 17	iPhone 16
Display & Refresh Rate	6.3-inch Super Retina XDR OLED, ProMotion (adaptive up to 120 Hz), Always-On display	6.1-inch OLED, assumed standard refresh (no ProMotion)
Chip / Performance	A19 chip, improved single-core performance	A18 chip, capable but a generation behind
Storage & Memory	Starts at 256 GB (base)	Likely 128 GB as base (per prior models)
Camera System	48 MP Fusion main + improved Ultra Wide (now 48 MP)	48 MP main + 12 MP ultrawide (and macro)
Front / Selfie Camera	18 MP Center Stage front camera, new square sensor, better framing	Standard front camera (lower resolution) on earlier iPhones (no Center Stage upgrade)
Battery & Charging	Better endurance claimed; fast charging (50% in ~20 mins)	Solid battery life; earlier charging speeds (no claims of 20-minute 50%)
Connectivity & Extras	Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, enhancements in wireless / modem parts	Wi-Fi 6 / earlier standards, Bluetooth versions available in iPhone 16 models
Price & Launch Positioning	Similar base pricing to iPhone 16 but with upgrades	Baseline / prior generation pricing; more “value” option

Display & Visuals

The iPhone 17 gains ProMotion (120 Hz adaptive refresh) and an Always-On display, making animations smoother and more fluid.
The peak brightness capabilities are enhanced (3,000 nits outdoors) for iPhone 17, improving readability in sunlight.
The iPhone 16 retains excellent OLED visuals, but lacks the advanced refresh and always-on features.

Performance & Chipset

iPhone 17’s A19 chip offers stronger single-core performance, making it better for gaming, complex tasks, and future apps.
iPhone 16’s A18 chip is capable and efficient, but lags behind for high-demand workloads.

Camera & Imaging

In iPhone 17, the Ultra Wide camera is upgraded to 48 MP, a big jump from the 12 MP in iPhone 16 models.
The main 48 MP Fusion camera is enhanced in iPhone 17 for low-light, dynamic range, and image quality.
The Front / Selfie camera in iPhone 17 is now 18 MP with better framing (Center Stage), for improved video calls and selfies.

Battery & Charging

iPhone 17 claims longer battery life in typical usage and better fast-charging: 50% in about 20 minutes.
iPhone 16 offers strong battery life, though less aggressive fast-charging specs were publicized.

Connectivity & Extras

iPhone 17 supports Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and has enhancements in wireless capabilities (modem / chip upgrades).
iPhone 16 supports stable Wi-Fi / Bluetooth standards, but doesn’t yet include the newest generation.
iPhone 17 also offers better scratch resistance via Ceramic Shield 2 and other durability improvements.

Which One Is Right for You?

For power users, gamers, and those wanting the latest features: iPhone 17 is the better pick.
For users on a tighter budget or those who don’t need the highest specs, the iPhone 16 is still a capable and cost-effective choice.
Camera-forward users will appreciate the camera upgrades in iPhone 17.
Long-term upgradeers will benefit from the iPhone 17’s more modern internals and connectivity.

The iPhone 17 clearly brings future-proof performance, a brighter and smoother display, upgraded cameras, and stronger connectivity, making it the ideal choice if you want the very latest Apple innovation. On the other hand, the iPhone 16 still delivers excellent features at a lower price point, perfect for those who want premium Apple quality without stretching their budget.