iPhone 17 Pro Base Model to Come with 256GB Storage — But the Price Will Be…

 

Apple is once again set to reshape the smartphone market with the upcoming iPhone 17 Pro, and it’s already generating buzz for a major shift in its base model offering. According to reliable industry sources, Apple is preparing to launch the iPhone 17 Pro with a base storage of 256GB, marking a significant leap from its current 128GB starting point. However, this storage boost won’t come without a price—literally.

256GB Base Storage: Apple Raises the Bar Again

For years, Apple has incrementally increased the storage capacities of its iPhones, but the iPhone 17 Pro is expected to make a bold leap that sets a new standard. By making 256GB the default storage option, Apple addresses the growing demand for more space in a world dominated by 4K video, high-resolution photography, and powerful mobile apps.

This move not only positions Apple as a leader in device storage innovation, but also creates a more future-proof smartphone for users who rely on their devices for everything from content creation to gaming.

Compared to Android competitors, many of which still offer base models starting at 128GB or even 64GB, this positions the iPhone 17 Pro ahead of the curve. It reflects Apple’s ongoing commitment to performance, user experience, and forward-thinking product strategy.

Expected Price Hike: How Much Will It Cost?

While Apple users will undoubtedly appreciate the expanded storage, the iPhone 17 Pro’s base price is expected to rise in tandem with this upgrade. Industry insiders suggest the starting price could climb to $1,299 USD, a $100 increase over the iPhone 15 Pro’s entry point.

Apple’s pricing strategy has always reflected the premium nature of its products, and this time is no different. The 256GB baseline gives users more value out of the box, but it also reflects the rising cost of components, materials, and global supply chain logistics.

Early leaks indicate that Apple plans to maintain its four-model lineup:

• iPhone 17

• iPhone 17 Plus

• iPhone 17 Pro

• iPhone 17 Pro Max (or Ultra, as some sources suggest)

With the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max starting at 256GB, the price difference between Pro and non-Pro models will be more distinct, emphasizing the Pro series’ premium appeal.

Design Evolution: Slimmer and Lighter Than Ever

One of the most anticipated changes in the iPhone 17 Pro is its rumored redesigned chassis, expected to be significantly thinner and lighter than its predecessor. Apple is reportedly working on a re-engineered titanium frame with enhanced durability and reduced weight, making the device easier to handle without compromising its premium feel.

Additionally, early CAD renders suggest the iPhone 17 Pro may feature:

• Smaller Dynamic Island

• Under-display Face ID components

• Slimmer bezels

• Curved edges for a more ergonomic grip

These changes point to a visual overhaul, aiming for a more refined aesthetic while maintaining the iconic iPhone silhouette.

Display and Performance: A16 Pro Chip & 120Hz Panel

The iPhone 17 Pro is rumored to debut with Apple’s new A19 Pro chip, built on an even smaller 2nm process node, delivering a significant boost in both performance and power efficiency. This chip will likely set a new benchmark for mobile CPUs, improving machine learning capabilities, multitasking performance, and thermal management.

The display is expected to feature a 6.1-inch ProMotion OLED panel with a 120Hz refresh rate, providing ultra-smooth animations and a superior touch response. Apple may also bring improved LTPO technology for better battery life through variable refresh rate scaling.

With support for Always-On Display, HDR10, and Dolby Vision, the iPhone 17 Pro will offer one of the most vibrant and fluid viewing experiences in the mobile market.

Camera Upgrades: Photography Gets Smarter

Apple continues to push the boundaries of mobile photography, and the iPhone 17 Pro’s camera system is expected to bring major enhancements. Leaks indicate the inclusion of a new 48MP ultra-wide sensor, a significant upgrade over the current 12MP variant.

Expected features include:

• Triple-lens setup with LiDAR scanner

• Improved night mode performance

• Periscope zoom lens (possibly exclusive to the Pro Max model)

• AI-enhanced computational photography

• Improved video stabilization and ProRes capabilities

These upgrades aim to appeal not only to casual photographers, but also to professional content creators looking to shoot high-quality photos and videos directly from their smartphones.

Battery and Charging: Power Meets Longevity

With greater power comes a greater need for battery efficiency, and Apple is set to deliver. The iPhone 17 Pro will reportedly feature a larger battery unit, paired with the ultra-efficient A19 Pro chip to deliver improved battery life.

Highlights include:

• All-day battery life, even with ProMotion display enabled

• Faster MagSafe charging, possibly up to 30W

• USB-C port with Thunderbolt support

• Smart battery management via iOS 19

This will make the iPhone 17 Pro not just a performance powerhouse, but a reliable daily driver for professionals and everyday users alike.

Software: iOS 19 Will Change the Game

The iPhone 17 Pro will ship with iOS 19, bringing a host of software enhancements designed to leverage the device’s hardware upgrades. Users can expect:

• Dynamic Lock Screens

• AI-powered Siri improvements

• Smarter widgets and multitasking

• Enhanced privacy controls

• More customization options

iOS 19 will further integrate with Apple’s ecosystem, including new features for Apple Vision Pro, Apple Watch, and MacBooks, offering seamless continuity across devices.

Final Thoughts: Premium Experience at a Premium Price

The iPhone 17 Pro is shaping up to be a landmark device in Apple’s smartphone lineup. With 256GB of base storage, a stunning design overhaul, a powerhouse chip, and next-gen photography capabilities, it’s clearly aimed at users who demand the best.

Yes, the price increase is notable—but so is the leap in value. Apple isn’t just selling a smartphone; it’s offering an all-in-one multimedia tool, creative workstation, and communications hub. For those willing to invest in the future of mobile technology, the iPhone 17 Pro is expected to be worth every cent.

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