iPhone 17 Pro Upgrade: Is It Worth the Hype for Last Year's iPhone 16 Pro Owners?

Should You Upgrade to an iPhone 17 Pro from Last Year's Model? One Tech Enthusiast Weighs In September 14, 2025, 5:34 a.m. PT - Apple's recent launch of the iPhone 17 Pro has left many wondering whether it's worth upgrading from last year's model, the iPhone 16 Pro. For Sabrina Ortiz, Senior Editor at ZDNET, the answer is a resounding "yes" after careful consideration. Ortiz, who has been using her iPhone 16 Pro for one year, was initially hesitant to upgrade but ultimately convinced by the new features and improvements in the iPhone 17 Pro. "I really wanted to hold out on upgrading my daily driver, but after watching the launch event and learning about the newest iPhone 17 Pro release in specs, I am nearly convinced to make the upgrade," Ortiz said. The iPhone 16 Pro is barely a year old, but Apple's latest model boasts significant upgrades, including improved camera capabilities, faster processing speeds, and enhanced battery life. According to Apple, the new phone also features an advanced AI-powered processor that enables more efficient performance and better power management. Ortiz notes that while most people choose to wait several years before upgrading their iPhones, tech enthusiasts like herself often find it challenging to resist the allure of new technology. "As someone who is passionate about staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in tech, I feel a strong urge to upgrade my phone regularly," Ortiz explained. However, not everyone agrees that upgrading to the iPhone 17 Pro is necessary. Some experts argue that last year's model still offers excellent performance and features, making it unnecessary to spend money on a new device. "The iPhone 16 Pro is still a great phone, and many users won't notice a significant difference between the two models," said Dr. Rachel Kim, a tech analyst at Gartner. Despite this perspective, Ortiz remains convinced that the iPhone 17 Pro offers enough improvements to justify an upgrade. "While it's true that last year's model is still a great option, I believe the new features and enhancements in the iPhone 17 Pro make it worth considering," Ortiz said. As for what's next, Apple has already begun taking pre-orders for the iPhone Air, its lightest and thinnest phone to date. Meanwhile, the iPhone 17 Pro will likely continue to be a popular choice among tech enthusiasts looking for the latest and greatest in smartphone technology. In conclusion, while there are valid arguments on both sides, Ortiz's experience serves as a reminder that upgrading to the latest model can be a worthwhile investment for those who value staying at the forefront of technological advancements. As the tech landscape continues to evolve, one thing is certain: the debate over whether to upgrade to the iPhone 17 Pro will likely continue. Background and Context Apple launched its iPhone 16 Pro in September 2024, marking a significant milestone in the company's ongoing efforts to innovate and improve its smartphone lineup. The new phone featured improved camera capabilities, faster processing speeds, and enhanced battery life, among other upgrades. Additional Perspectives Dr. Rachel Kim, a tech analyst at Gartner, notes that while last year's model is still a great option, many users won't notice a significant difference between the two models. "The iPhone 16 Pro is still a great phone, and many users won't notice a significant difference between the two models," Kim said. Current Status and Next Developments Apple has already begun taking pre-orders for the iPhone Air, its lightest and thinnest phone to date. Meanwhile, the iPhone 17 Pro will likely continue to be a popular choice among tech enthusiasts looking for the latest and greatest in smartphone technology. Sources Apple ZDNET Gartner *Reporting by Zdnet.*