The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max are phased out as excitement builds for Apple's first foldable device
Category: Business
Apple has officially discontinued the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max following the launch of the highly anticipated iPhone 18 Pro series on September 9, 2026. This decision marks the end of the iPhone 17 lineup, which was introduced just a year earlier, in September 2025, and reflects Apple's strategy of keeping its product offerings fresh and aligned with the latest technology trends.
The iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max have been removed from Apple’s online store, but they will still be available through third-party retailers and carriers until stocks run out. The discontinuation of these models comes as Apple replaces them with the new iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, which promise to offer upgraded features and performance.
On September 9, 2026, Apple unveiled the iPhone 18 Pro series, which includes the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. This launch has generated considerable buzz among consumers and tech enthusiasts alike. The iPhone 17 Pro series, which featured a sleek redesigned aluminum unibody, the powerful A19 Pro chip, and an innovative vapor chamber cooling system, is now officially discontinued. The models were well-received for their advanced camera systems, which included three 48-megapixel Fusion cameras, capable of up to 8x optical-quality zoom, along with an 18-megapixel Center Stage front camera.
The iPhone 17 Pro boasted a 6.3-inch Super Retina XDR display, whereas the iPhone 17 Pro Max featured a larger 6.9-inch display. Both devices supported ProMotion technology for up to 120Hz refresh rates, Always-On functionality, and an impressive peak brightness of up to 3,000 nits. Available in Cosmic Orange, Deep Blue, and Silver, the launch prices started at $1,099 for the iPhone 17 Pro and $1,199 for the Pro Max.
Even with the discontinuation, Apple has assured users that the iPhone 17 Pro models will continue to receive software updates, ensuring that existing users can enjoy the latest features and security enhancements. This approach is consistent with Apple's practice of supporting older devices for a substantial period, providing reassurance to customers who may be hesitant to upgrade.
The launch of the iPhone 18 Pro series is seen as a strategic move to maintain Apple's competitive edge in the smartphone market. Some observers have noted, though, that the iPhone 18 Pro Max may not offer enough incentives for current iPhone 17 Pro users to upgrade. Reports suggest that the new model features only incremental improvements, such as a faster chip, enhanced cameras, a smaller Dynamic Island, and potentially longer battery life.
In the midst of this transition, excitement is building around Apple's first foldable iPhone, which is expected to debut in the fall of 2026. Known as the iPhone Duo or Ultra, this innovative device is generating buzz due to its large 7.8-inch inner screen and an iPad-like software experience that allows for side-by-side app usage. This could represent a substantial shift in how users interact with their devices, moving beyond traditional smartphone functionalities.
The upcoming foldable iPhone is rumored to feature a 5.5-inch outer display that opens into a spacious 7.8-inch screen, making it comparable to a portable iPad mini. Such a design could appeal to users seeking a larger display for multitasking and productivity. The foldable iPhone is also expected to have a large battery capacity, with cells positioned on both sides of the device to support its dual displays.
Interestingly, the author of a recent ZDNet article expressed skepticism about upgrading to the iPhone 18 Pro Max, citing that the incremental upgrades do not justify the cost. Instead, they are eagerly awaiting the foldable iPhone, highlighting the growing interest in devices that offer new form factors and functionalities. The author, who currently uses an iPhone 17 Pro Max, noted that the prospect of a foldable device is far more enticing than the latest iteration of the standard iPhone.
As the foldable iPhone approaches its release, it is expected to challenge the norms of smartphone design, offering a unique user experience that could redefine portability and functionality. The anticipation surrounding this device aligns with Apple's history of innovation and willingness to explore new categories.
In a world where smartphone technology evolves rapidly, the discontinuation of the iPhone 17 Pro series signals Apple's commitment to innovation and market leadership. As consumers await the arrival of the foldable iPhone, the excitement surrounding its potential features and capabilities suggests a bright future for Apple's product lineup. With the iPhone 17 Pro models still receiving software updates, users can rest assured that their devices will remain functional and relevant for the foreseeable future.