The highly anticipated iPhone 17 lineup is finally here. This year’s release includes the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max, each featuring exciting upgrades such as the new A19 chip, a 120 Hz ProMotion display on even the base models, and a refined camera system across the board.
If having access to the latest Apple AI features is important to you (and for me it is), you’ll want one of the newest devices, the iPhone 17 series (or at least the iPhone 16 Pro if you’re considering previous-gen). It’s a smart move if you’re aiming for the “latest and greatest”.
That said, AI simply doesn’t matter to everyone. If you’re comfortable without it, spending more on the top model may not make sense, even though the iPhone 17 line is upon us.
With all of that, we received this question from Erhardt in Washington, DC:
“I am in very big need of getting an iPhone. Please know that I am 84 years old, and I have been afraid to get one. However, you may be able to help me with what I should purchase.”
First off, don’t be afraid of getting an iPhone. They’re designed to be user-friendly, even for those new to smartphones. At 84, you might especially appreciate the accessibility features Apple provides.
Tips to help you decide
Basic use: If you mostly want to make calls, send messages, and maybe check email, you don’t need the latest iPhone 17. An older model like the iPhone SE (3rd Gen) or iPhone 13 would work great and cost less.
Larger screen: If you’d prefer a bigger display for easier reading, the standard iPhone 17 offers a larger display than older models and includes the ProMotion refresh rate.
Budget-friendly options: The iPhone SE (3rd Generation) remains the most affordable Apple smartphone and keeps that familiar home-button feel. The iPhone 14,15, or 16 series are still excellent choices if you want to save money compared to the 17 lineup.
Ease of use features
Apple has always prioritized making its devices accessible and easy to use for everyone, regardless of age or tech-savviness. The iPhone is equipped with several user-friendly features:
Accessibility settings: iPhones come with a suite of built-in accessibility features, such as larger text options, voice control, and hearing aid compatibility. These settings can be easily customized to suit individual needs, ensuring that everyone can use their device comfortably.
Siri: Apple’s voice assistant, Siri, can help you with a wide range of tasks, from making calls and sending messages to setting reminders and searching the web. Simply ask Siri, and it will assist you, making your iPhone experience more convenient and hands-free.
Guided access: This feature allows you to limit your device to a single app and control which features are available, making it easier to focus on one task at a time.
Magnifier: Turn your iPhone into a digital magnifying glass, making it easier to read small text or see details up close.
So, now that you know about the user-friendly features and accessibility options, let’s explore the various iPhones available to find the perfect fit for your needs. Whether you prioritize a larger screen, a budget-friendly option, or the latest technology, there’s an iPhone model that’s just right for you.
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iPhone 17 Pro
The iPhone 17 Pro in Deep Blue brings power and style together. Its sleek aluminum unibody feels premium, while the new Ceramic Shield 2 keeps it tougher than ever. The 48MP Pro Camera System with 8x optical zoom lets you capture every moment like a pro, and the 18MP front camera makes selfies smarter and clearer. With the A19 Pro chip, everything runs faster and smoother, and you’ll get up to 33 hours of video playback. Plus, iOS 26 adds a fresh new look that feels vibrant and easy to use.
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iPhone 16e
Apple has introduced the iPhone 16e, a new addition to the iPhone 16 lineup, designed to offer powerful features at a competitive price. It is equipped with the A18 chip, providing fast performance and exceptional power efficiency, along with the innovative C1 modem for improved 5G connectivity and outstanding battery life of up to 26 hours of video playback.
The iPhone 16e features a 48MP Fusion camera system that combines high-resolution photography with a 2-in-1 telephoto capability, allowing for versatile shooting options. Additionally, it incorporates Apple Intelligence for enhanced user experience and privacy, alongside a customizable Action button for quick access to various functions. Overall, the iPhone 16e is positioned as a value-driven option in Apple’s smartphone lineup, balancing advanced technology with affordability.
iPhone 15 Pro Max
Credit: Apple
The Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max boasts a 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion technology, offering an adaptive refresh rate up to 120Hz for smoother visuals. The phone is powered by the new A17 Pro chip, ensuring top-tier performance and efficiency. One of the standout features is the 48MP main camera with advanced sensor-shift optical image stabilization, complemented by a 12MP ultra-wide and a new 5x telephoto lens. This setup provides exceptional photo and video quality, making it ideal for photography enthusiasts. The iPhone 15 Pro Max also introduces a titanium frame, making it lighter and more durable than its predecessors.
iPhone 15 Pro
Credit: Apple
The most advanced option in this list is the iPhone 15 Pro. This smartphone runs on an A17 Pro chip with a 6-core GPU. It can take super high-resolution photos with a 48 MP main camera and 10x the optical zoom range. You’ll get Emergency SOS with crash detection and roadside assistance and up to 29 hours of video playback.
iPhone 15 Plus
Credit: Apple
The iPhone 15 Pro is a bit more advanced. This one has a 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR display and is made of aluminum with a color-infused glass back. This one operates on an A16 Bionic chip with a 5-core GPU and has an even more advanced dual-camera system. The camera is a 48 MP Ultra-wide camera and has 4X the optical zoom range.
iPhone 15
Credit: Apple
The iPhone 15 is an excellent product if you’re looking for a newer device. Released in 2023, it has a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display and an A16 Bionic chip with a 5-core GPU. It also comes with an advanced dual camera system that can give you super high-resolution photos. Plus, you’ll get the Emergency SOS feature and up to 26 hours of video playback.
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iPhone 13
Credit: Apple
If you’d rather not get a new iPhone model and just want something practical and functional, the iPhone 13 is an excellent choice. It has the same 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display that the iPhone 15 has. A rear and front 12 MP camera for brilliant photos. It works with a 3240mAh battery and runs on an A15 Bionic chip for faster performance.
iPhone SE (3rd generation)
Credit: Apple
If you’re looking for a smaller smartphone that’s easier to carry, the iPhone SE is an excellent option. This one has a 4.7-inch retina display and an advanced single-camera system. With the 12 MP wide camera, you can still use portrait mode for your photos. It also has a 7 MP FaceTime camera. Plus, it runs on an A15 Bionic chip for lightning-fast performance and has a durable design with IP67 water resistance.
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Related Links:
- How to schedule a free session with Apple support
- Apple brings its powerful Preview app to iPhone for the first time
- iPhone and Android security settings to protect you
Kurt’s key takeaways
Whether you want the latest model or something more modest and simple, there are plenty of excellent iPhone options for you to choose from. Take a look at all the models above and compare their features with what your needs are.
Comment below and let us know which option you feel is best for you. We’d love to hear from you.
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