The iPhone 17 family has arrived as Apple’s reigning flagship lineup, bringing with it notable structural shifts and a refreshed aesthetic. While the Pro models feature a revamped camera bump, the most significant change to the roster is the departure of the Plus model. In its place, Apple has officially introduced the iPhone 17 Air, a device designed to offer a sleeker alternative to the standard heavyweights.
Beyond the form factor, color remains a critical component of the design experience, often dictating how the device feels in hand long after the specs have been memorized. This year’s palette for the standard iPhone 17 introduces a mix of trending hues and revisited classics, totaling six distinct shades.
A Fresh Palette for the iPhone 17
Apple has leaned into a softer, yet distinct styling for this generation. Among the most anticipated returns is Lavender. While the iPhone 14 featured a light purple, and the subsequent two generations pivoted to pink, this new purple is deeper and more striking than its predecessors. It strikes a balance between the fun of the iPhone 15’s pastels and a more mature look.
For those preferring cooler tones, Mist Blue offers a soft, airy aesthetic similar to the light blue seen on the iPhone 15—a fresh and playful option. On the greener side of the spectrum, Sage introduces a natural, forest-like hue. This is a departure from the minty green of the iPhone 15 or the teal-heavy blend seen on the iPhone 16. It’s a traditional, earthy green that hasn’t been seen since the iPhone 13, lacking the blue undertones of recent years.
Rounding out the lineup are the essential neutrals. White remains the go-to for a clean, minimalist look. Meanwhile, the Black option this year is technically a very deep gray rather than a pure void black, serving as the standard professional choice for those who prefer their technology understated.
The iPhone Air Aesthetic
Debuting this year, the iPhone 17 Air distinguishes itself not just through its slim profile but also through an exclusive color set. Stepping away from the standard lineup, the Air is available in Space Black, Cloud White, Light Gold, and Sky Blue, underscoring its position as a unique tier within the series.
The Budget Contender: iPhone 17e Imminent
While the flagship and Air models focus on design, significant developments are occurring at the entry level. According to Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman, the launch of the iPhone 17e is imminent. This model is positioned to capture budget-conscious buyers without forcing them to compromise on modern performance standards.
The most substantial upgrade reported is the inclusion of the A19 chip—the same silicon introduced in the main iPhone 17 generation. This represents a massive performance leap over the predecessor, ensuring longevity for users who hold onto their devices for several years.
Connectivity and utility are also seeing major overhauls. Critically, the iPhone 17e is expected to finally adopt MagSafe, a feature glaringly absent from the iPhone 16e. This addition opens the door for magnetic charging, wallet attachments, and battery packs. Internally, the device is slated to feature Apple’s new C1X modem for cellular connectivity, paired with the N1 chip to handle Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Thread. This combination promises improved connection stability and better energy efficiency, directly benefiting battery life.
Global Pricing Dynamics
The arrival of the iPhone 17e brings particularly interesting news for international markets, specifically regarding pricing. Gurman predicts Apple will maintain the US starting price of $599. However, macroeconomic factors may result in a price drop for European customers.
When the iPhone 16e launched in February 2025, the Euro was trading significantly lower against the Dollar ($1.04). Currently, the exchange rate has shifted favorably, with the Euro sitting closer to $1.19. This weaker Dollar gives Apple more flexibility in international pricing. Consequently, while not guaranteed, there is a strong mathematical possibility that the Euro price could dip below the previous €699 price point, making the new budget iPhone an even more attractive proposition in overseas markets.
