iPhone 17 Pro vs. iPhone 16 Pro: My wishlist for Apple's next big launch

The iPhone 16 Pro is undeniably a solid device. It refines the iPhone 15 series with subtle upgrades—better cameras, a slightly larger screen, and enhanced battery life—resulting in an improved overall experience. However, these updates feel more like incremental changes than groundbreaking advancements. With the iPhone 17 Pro, Apple needs to elevate both its features and design to make a truly compelling statement. Here’s what I hope to see in Apple’s next flagship and how it can improve upon the iPhone 15 Pro models.

A Fresh Design for the iPhone 17 Pro

The iPhone 17 Pro needs a design overhaul. While the iPhone 16 Pro feels premium with its titanium build, it’s starting to look too familiar—almost indistinguishable from the iPhone 15 Pro. Apple has stuck with the same rear design since the iPhone 12 Pro, and it’s time for a change. The iPhone 17 Pro should offer something new, something that stands out in a crowded market.

Additionally, Apple should introduce vibrant color options for the Pro lineup. Currently, Pro users are limited to subdued tones, while the standard iPhone models get fun shades like yellow, red, and blue. It’s time for Pro users to express themselves through color as well.

Small Yet Meaningful Tweaks

While the iPhone 16 Pro has introduced a Camera Control button, its placement feels a bit off. On the iPhone 16 Pro Max, the button feels too low, making it slightly awkward to use. Moving the button just a centimeter higher on the iPhone 17 Pro would improve comfort and usability, reducing camera shake while pressing the button.

Major Camera Upgrades

Apple’s iPhone cameras have always been reliable, but other flagships like the Vivo X200 Pro are pushing the boundaries of smartphone photography, offering excellent photo quality. While Apple leads in video quality, there’s room for improvement when it comes to still images.

The iPhone 17 Pro should bring significant upgrades to the photography experience. Content creators love the video features like ProRes Log, but for the majority of users who prioritize photos, Apple should focus on delivering a truly class-leading photography experience.

Fast Charging, Finally

While the iPhone 16 Pro boasts excellent battery life, the charging experience is still lagging behind its competitors. Unlike flagships from OnePlus and iQOO, which offer fast charging speeds, the iPhone’s charging remains painfully slow. Apple doesn’t need to go overboard with 100W charging, but offering something in the range of 50W or 65W fast charging would make a noticeable difference. This would allow a full charge in around 45 to 50 minutes, saving valuable time for users on the go.

Conclusion

The iPhone 17 Pro has the potential to be a standout device. With a fresh design, camera upgrades, and faster charging, it could solidify Apple’s position as the top choice for both photographers and everyday users. It’s time for Apple to push the envelope and deliver an iPhone that truly stands apart from its predecessors.