09/10 2025
527
In line with prior leaks, the iPhone 17 made its debut, featuring four distinct models. Notably, the Plus model has made way for the new, lightweight Air variant.
Moreover, when it comes to the device's aesthetics, storage capacity, chipset, color options, and more, the reality aligns almost perfectly with the leaked information. There are no substantial discrepancies. It's clear that Apple's current confidentiality strategies are falling short, as everything seems to have been exposed in advance.
Numerous individuals express their intent to purchase the Air model due to its lightweight design. However, I urge caution. Its lightweight nature is its sole selling point, and it comes at a hefty price. The eSIM functionality is cumbersome to use and is currently exclusive to Lenovo. Battery life is subpar, and the lightweight feature loses its charm when a protective case is added.
Instead, with the iPhone 17's release, I've discovered that my preferred model has been discontinued by Apple. It's a real shame.
My favorite is actually the Plus model, which many deem not worth the investment. Now that it's gone, I'm skeptical it will ever return.
Why do I favor the Plus? My priorities are extended battery life and a spacious screen. I'm not overly concerned with other features. The Plus excels in these areas, perfectly catering to my needs.
For everyday use, the difference between three cameras and two is negligible unless you're a photography enthusiast or a video blogger. For the average user, there won't be a significant disparity. Similarly, high refresh rates don't make a noticeable difference in my experience.
Thus, the Plus's primary advantage lies in its long-lasting battery. Its battery life even surpasses that of the Max version, yet it's considerably more affordable. The 128GB version is priced at 6,999 yuan, and with national subsidies and other discounts, it can be acquired for under 5,500 yuan, offering exceptional value for money.
This time, however, the Plus has been replaced by the Air, which has a completely different market positioning and is priced starting at 7,999 yuan. Regardless of the discounts offered, it will undoubtedly exceed 6,000 yuan, making it significantly more expensive than the Plus and offering poor value for money along with a short battery life.
Opting for the standard version means dealing with a small screen and limited battery life. Investing in the Pro Max is financially out of reach for many. Therefore, for someone like me, the Plus was indeed the ideal choice. Unfortunately, it's no longer available.
Nevertheless, if I'm compelled to select from the iPhone 17 lineup this time, I would only consider the standard version, specifically the 256GB model priced at 5,999 yuan with a 6.3-inch screen, which also offers good value. The only downsides are its modest battery capacity and screen size. If these were just slightly larger, it would truly be the perfect device.