When will it be released?

  • The iPhone 17 range was formally revealed by Apple on September 9, 2025. 
  • Pre-orders started on September 12, 2025.
  • The official street release (when people can buy in stores, get deliveries) is September 19, 2025 for most regions. 

What to expect: features & changes

Here are the main upgrades and new stuff in the iPhone 17 series. Some are for all models, some only for the Pro / Pro Max.

Feature What’s new / improved
Chips / Performance The iPhone 17 uses the A19 chip. The Pro and Pro Max get a more powerful A19 Pro chip. 
Cameras All rear cameras are now 48 MP Fusion units in many models. That means sharper photos, better ultra-wide shots, more detail. 

Front camera is upgraded too: “Center Stage” front camera improved for better selfies / group shots. 
Battery / Cooling Better battery life, especially in the Pro models. Also improved cooling tech (like vapor chamber) so the phone doesn’t overheat when doing heavy work or gaming. 
Display & Design 120Hz ProMotion display (smoother scrolls/animations).

New design touches: tougher glass, maybe a redesigned back or frame in some models.
Storage The base storage has been increased. For Pro/Pro Max, there are options up to 2 TB for the first time. 
Software Ships with iOS 26. Also includes “Apple Intelligence” features (on-device AI / smarter software features) in some regions.

 

What it means for Nairobi / Nigeria region

Putting things in local-terms, here are possible things to watch out for:

  • Availability: Big cities like Nairobi might get iPhone 17s a little later than the US / Europe release date. Sometimes official Apple resellers or big telecoms bring them after pre-orders. Watch for local resellers.

  • Price: Expect prices higher than the US MSRP because of import duties, taxes, currency conversion, shipping, etc. If Apple or retailers offer trade-in deals, those might help, but overall cost will be premium.

  • Model choices: Maybe fewer storage / colour choices available locally initially. Also, Pro / Pro Max models are usually in highest demand (so possible delays).

  • Software & Features Localized: Some Apple Intelligence / software features might roll out later, or have limited functionality early on (languages, services) depending on Apple’s support in the region.

Should you wait or buy?

If I were in Nairobi:

  • If you like having the latest camera, best performance, big storage, then upgrading to iPhone 17 (especially Pro) might be worth it.

  • If you have an iPhone that still works well (say iPhone 14 / 15), and you don’t care about some small upgrades, maybe waiting a few months will let prices drop or for better deals.

  • Watch local trusted dealers; avoid buying grey markets with poor warranty.

What are the main new features of the iPhone 17 compared to the iPhone 16?

The iPhone 17 brings several big upgrades over the iPhone 16, including a larger and brighter 120 Hz ProMotion display with tougher Ceramic Shield 2, a faster A19 chip for better performance and AI tasks, and major camera improvements like a new 48MP ultrawide and 18MP front camera with Dual Capture. It also offers longer battery life with faster 40W charging, plus next-gen connectivity with Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6.

Which iPhone 17 model should I buy: regular, Pro, or Pro Max?

If you want a balanced phone for daily use, the regular iPhone 17 is enough; if you need extra power, better cameras, and longer battery, go for the iPhone 17 Pro; and if you love big screens, top-tier zoom, and the best battery life, the Pro Max is the ultimate choice.

Can I trade in my old iPhone in Nairobi or Lagos to get the new iPhone 17?

Yes, you can trade in your old iPhone in both Nairobi and Lagos to get the new iPhone 17. In Nairobi, since there’s no official Apple store, authorized resellers like iStore Kenya and other trusted shops offer trade-in deals where the value of your old phone is taken off the new one’s price. In Lagos, resellers and phone dealers also provide trade-in services, though the amount depends on your iPhone’s model and condition. You can also sell your phone directly to local shops or online platforms and use the money to buy the iPhone 17. To get the best value, compare offers and always deal with trusted sellers to avoid scams.

Will the iPhone 17 support 5G networks in Kenya and Nigeria?

Yes, the iPhone 17 will work with 5G in both Kenya and Nigeria, mainly using the sub-6GHz bands like n78, which are supported by networks such as MTN, Airtel, and Safaricom. This means you can enjoy 5G speeds in major cities like Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Nairobi. However, it won’t support the faster mmWave 5G available only in U.S. models, so speeds may not reach the highest levels. Still, for normal use like streaming, browsing, and gaming, the iPhone 17’s 5G will work well wherever your network has coverage. Shop Now

 

 

Frequently Ask Questions

1. When will the iPhone 17 be available at Mobi Express?
The iPhone 17 is available now at Mobi Express locations and online.

2. What storage options are offered?
It starts at 256 GB and goes up from there.

3. Does the iPhone 17 have better cameras than the iPhone 16?
Yes, it comes with dual 48 MP rear cameras for sharper photos and videos.

4. How long does the battery last?
The iPhone 17 is designed for all-day battery life with efficient power use.

5. What colors are available?
Apple offers a range of new and classic finishes. Availability may vary by Mobi Express store.

6. Can I trade in my old phone at Mobi Express?
Yes. Mobi Express offers trade-in options to help lower the cost of your new iPhone 17.