iPhone 17 vs. older iPhones: Should you upgrade today?

💡 Need to know

• Big upgrade: iPhone 17 offers a better screen, camera, and faster chip.
• Still rocking a 12 or older? You’ll feel the difference.
• Not sure yet? Trade-in credit or battery repair could help you wait.

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Upgrading to a new phone can feel like a big decision—especially if your current one still works fine. But Apple’s iPhone® 17 brings major updates that could make your daily routine smoother and more secure.

Asurion Experts help our millions of customers set up new devices and transfer data every year, so we've seen a thing or two. We’ve rounded up the biggest differences between the iPhone 17 and older models to help you decide if now’s the right time to switch.

Design and display

The iPhone 17 builds on Apple’s modern design with slimmer bezels, a titanium frame, and a brighter OLED display. Compared to older models like the iPhone 12 or 13, colors appear more vivid, and the screen handles sunlight better for easier outdoor use.

If you’re still using an iPhone 11 or earlier, the difference is even more noticeable. The newer Super Retina XDR display offers improved contrast and smoother scrolling at 120Hz refresh rates—perfect for streaming or gaming on the go.

Camera improvements

Apple® continues to refine its camera system, and the iPhone 17 lineup takes things up a notch. With larger sensors, improved low-light performance, and AI-powered image processing, your photos and videos will look sharper with more natural color.

Older iPhones still take great photos, but you’ll notice clearer details, especially in low-light or motion shots. The new front-facing camera also enhances portrait mode and video calls—ideal for work meetings or family FaceTime® chats.

If your camera has been acting up or your lens feels scratched, a uBreakiFix® by Asurion expert can inspect or repair it before you upgrade.

Performance and battery life

The iPhone 17 features Apple’s latest A19 chip, offering faster multitasking, smoother gaming, and better energy efficiency. It also supports on-device AI tools for tasks like voice transcription and smarter Siri® suggestions.

Battery life has improved, too. Expect up to an extra 2–3 hours of usage compared to the iPhone 13 or 14. If your current phone struggles to hold a charge, it might not just be age—try these battery-saving tips to extend its life before committing to a new device.

New software and AI features

The iPhone 17 ships with iOS® 18, which introduces customizable Control Center widgets, smarter notification management, and built-in generative AI tools. These updates make everyday use more seamless, especially for productivity or accessibility.

Older iPhones can still run iOS 18, but many of the AI and camera-powered features require the newer A19 chip to work efficiently. That means if you want the full experience—including live translation and advanced photo editing—it may be worth upgrading.

Cost and trade-in options

Apple’s new iPhones aren’t cheap, but you may not need to pay full price. Trade-in programs can offset costs if your current phone is in good shape. Carriers often run promotions around new releases, too.

If your older device is damaged or out of warranty, consider professional iPhone repair at uBreakiFix by Asurion to restore its performance or get a diagnostic before deciding to upgrade.

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FAQ

How much better is the iPhone 17 camera than older models? The iPhone 17 camera captures more detail and performs better in low light thanks to upgraded sensors and AI image processing. You’ll notice sharper photos, especially in motion or at night.

Will my older iPhone still get iOS updates? Yes, but support typically ends after about five years. If you’re using an iPhone X or older, you may miss out on some new iOS 18 features or future updates.

Should I upgrade if my phone still works fine? If your current iPhone still performs well and supports the latest iOS version, you can likely wait another year. But if you’re dealing with battery, performance, or camera issues, upgrading to the iPhone 17 will offer a noticeable improvement.

Can I transfer everything to a new iPhone easily? Yes. With iCloud backup or Quick Start, you can transfer apps, settings, and data to your new device in minutes. For step-by-step help, see how to easily set up your new iPhone.