Pre-orders for iPhone 17 models open on September 12. Image: Apple via News Nine.
(The Post News) – Apple’s highly anticipated annual event saw the unveiling of the iPhone 17 range and the new iPhone Air, but instead of universal applause, the launch drew mixed reactions—with excitement overshadowed by widespread criticism from fans.
iPhone 17 Range
Apple introduced three new models in the lineup: the iPhone 17 (base model), iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max, following the familiar naming convention of previous generations.
The base model boasts five new colors, a larger display, and a ceramic shield layer for durability. It features the new A19 chip, described as “the most advanced central processing unit (CPU) in any smartphone,” designed to power Apple’s intelligence tools. Storage has doubled to 256GB, and the device is equipped with two cameras, including a 48-megapixel fusion main camera and a 2x telephoto lens.
Its more advanced siblings, the Pro and Pro Max models, which CEO Tim Cook called the “most powerful iPhone ever,” come with ceramic shields, aluminum frames, and the signature three-camera Pro fusion system with an ultra-wide lens. They run on the new A19 Pro chip, promise stronger battery life, and introduce a vapor chamber cooling system to prevent overheating.
The cameras feature Apple’s first-ever 8x optical zoom, which reaches up to 200 meters, alongside a new Photonic Engine for sharper, more color-accurate images. Designed with content creators and filmmakers in mind, the Pro models also add advanced video tools, turning the devices into “mini film studios.” They will be available in silver, blue, and orange.
New Apple iPhone Air
Apple also revealed the iPhone Air, the thinnest iPhone ever made. One executive described it as “so thin and light, it seems to disappear in your hands.” Despite its slim frame, it offers 24-hour battery life, the A19 Pro chip, and an eSIM system. Apple framed the Air as a leaner, more efficient device in a smaller package.
However, CNN analyst Lisa Eadicicco noted that the Air appears to be Apple’s attempt to reignite enthusiasm after years of incremental upgrades that left fans underwhelmed. The observation comes amid declining iPhone sales and increasing criticism of Apple’s lack of innovation.
The Public Reacts
At the time of the launch, Cook posted a video on X teasing the anticipated phone after years of users complaining about the lack of innovation. A lot of the comments pointed to the recycling of phone aesthetics.
One X user, @crvelin, commented, “You said awe-dropping. Did you mean this by awe? You guys have turned into Microsoft. I was falling asleep with all the talk about specs and nanomicrons. I’m starting to hate Apple after being your biggest fan since the 90s. You’ve lost your way, and it’s time for you to step down.”
Meanwhile, another user, @MichalM1978, similarly commented, “No innovation after Jobs… higher prices, and your “changes” do not have any impact for 95% of users.”
@MarianneNFTs simply complained about the lack of color choices on the Pro models, saying, “Not having black on the Pro model is DIABOLICAL, Tim; you did not cook here.”
Pre-orders for the iPhone open on September 12, with deliveries available from September 19 onwards.
Please share your thoughts contact Lukhona via email: journalist-lukhona@thepostnews.net
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