Tag: iPhone 17

September 12, 2025

Pitaka Launches Stylish Aramid Cases for iPhone 17 Series

Key Takeaways

1. Pitaka introduces TechWoven cases with unique finishes and designs to compete with brands like ESR and Spigen for iPhone 17 cases.
2. The Ultra-Slim Case, measuring 0.88mm thick, is made from aerospace-grade aramid fiber, providing a lightweight, “caseless” feel.
3. ProGuard and UltraGuard Cases offer military-grade drop protection with added thickness and enhanced durability features.
4. The ProGuard cases have arched corners for extra protection, while UltraGuard cases feature a 3D-thermoformed unibody design for scratch resistance.
5. Pricing starts at $49.99 for basic models, with higher prices for specialized features and premium cases.

Pitaka is likely one of the top contenders ready to challenge Apple with its new TechWoven cases. These cases come in unique finishes like Sunrise, Moonrise, and Twill, along with fresh designs named Milky Way and Over the Horizon. This launch aims to compete with other iPhone 17 cases from brands like ESR and Spigen.

Ultra-Slim Case Details

The newest color option is offered in the entry-level Ultra-Slim Case, which is the sole choice available for the iPhone 17 and Air, as well as the Pro and Pro Max models. This case is constructed from “aerospace-grade” aramid fiber and measures just 0.88mm thick, providing a “caseless” sensation. In contrast, the more premium ProGuard and UltraGuard Cases are approximately 2mm thick, designed to meet “military-grade” drop protection standards, utilizing aramid weave fiber and a unique Pitaka hybrid TPU/aramid-infused Orca Resin in their makeup.

Enhanced Protection Features

The ProGuard cases feature “arched” corners to enhance protection further, while the UltraGuard versions are said to offer similar benefits, along with superior wear and scratch resistance thanks to their “3D-thermoformed” unibody design. This means users can expect extra durability in both case lines, making them suitable for everyday use.

The complete array of iPhone 17-series cases is now accessible on Pitaka’s website. Meanwhile, the Ultra-Slim Cases for the Air, 17 Pro, and Pro Max are also listed on Amazon as of this writing.

Pricing Information

These cases start at $49.99, with a price of $59.99 for models that include Pitaka’s specialized aramid-augmented Camera Control covers. The ProGuard variants are priced at $59.99, while the top-tier UltraGuard cases begin at $79.99.

Tags: iPhone 17, Pitaka
September 12, 2025

Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro Camera Marketing Hides Key Weaknesses

Key Takeaways

1. The iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro have improved cameras, especially in telephoto and front-facing options, but overall camera performance still shows limitations compared to previous models.
2. The ultra-wide camera experiences vignetting and captures less detail in the corners, relying on digital zoom for macro photography, similar to the iPhone 16 series.
3. Macro mode requires users to get very close to subjects, leading to distorted views and increased depth of field, with the iPhone Air lacking macro support entirely.
4. Apple’s marketing claims about 8x optical zoom on the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max are misleading, as this zoom is achieved through digital magnification, not true optical zoom.
5. The quality of digital zoom is questionable, effectively reducing the telephoto camera’s capabilities compared to older models, raising concerns about misleading advertising practices in the industry.

According to Apple, the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro bring notable upgrades to their cameras, but when compared to the iPhone 16, the enhancements are mainly seen in the telephoto and front-facing cameras. The iPhone 17 and iPhone Air both feature a 48 MP f/2.2 ultra-wide camera with a 1/2.55-inch sensor and a 48 MP main camera that combines a 1/1.55-inch sensor with an f/1.6 lens. In contrast, the iPhone 17 Pro is equipped with an f/1.78 lens and a 1/1.28-inch sensor.

Limitations in Camera Performance

The inability of Apple to make improvements to these cameras presents several challenges for users. For instance, the ultra-wide camera still suffers from noticeable vignetting in initial sample images, and the corners of the photos capture significantly less detail. Additionally, Apple continues to depend on the ultra-wide camera for macro photography, just like it did with the iPhone 16 series. It also uses a standard 2x digital zoom, which effectively turns the camera into a 26mm macro camera with a small 1/5-inch sensor.

Macro Mode and User Experience

While it is possible to utilize the complete 48 MP sensor and 13 mm field of view in macro mode, users have to get really close to their subjects to take a large format shot. Even Apple’s sample photos indicate that, in contrast to rivals that allow macro photography with the telephoto lens, the wide-angle lens creates a distorted view with a significantly increased depth of field. The reliance on the ultra-wide camera also means that the iPhone Air does not even support macro mode at all.

Misleading Marketing Practices

What’s even more frustrating is that Apple’s marketing seems to be more misleading than ever before. The company claims that both the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max can achieve 8x optical zoom with a focal length of 200mm, which could be considered a blatant falsehood without a lot of fine print. The 48 MP telephoto camera, which has a 1/2.55-inch sensor, provides a 35mm-equivalent focal length of 100mm. The touted 8x zoom can only be achieved through digital magnification.

Apple asserts that the quality of this digital zoom is comparable to optical zoom, but this claim is questionable. Essentially, digital zoom reduces the camera to a 12 MP telephoto camera with a tiny 1/5-inch sensor, and the effective sensor area is less than half the size of the 5 MP sensor used in the iPhone 4 from 2010. Apple is not the only company engaging in this misleading advertising; for example, Samsung also promotes a 2x “optical quality zoom” for the Galaxy S25. Overall, Apple’s aggressive marketing tactics risk misleading unsuspecting consumers.

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Tags: iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro
September 11, 2025

Oppo Find X9 Pro Outshines iPhones with Bigger Battery and Camera

Key Takeaways

1. Oppo’s Find X9 series will include two models: Find X9 and Find X9 Pro, with details revealed by executive Zhou Yibao.
2. The Find X9 features a 7,025 mAh battery with 80 W wired charging, while the Find X9 Pro has a larger 7,500 mAh battery with the same charging technology.
3. Both devices will have a cold-carved glass design and titanium-colored bodies, with slimmer display bezels compared to the iPhone 17 and iPhone 16 Pro.
4. The Find X9 series will focus on video enhancements and utilize Hasselblad’s imaging technology to compete with the iPhone.
5. The official launch of the Find X9 and Find X9 Pro is expected around the same time as MediaTek’s Dimensity 9500 launch.

Oppo continues to keep its fans guessing about when the Find X9 and Find X9 Pro will officially launch. However, executive Zhou Yibao has provided some more detailed insights into both smartphones. After a livestream event, he posted on Weibo, mentioning that he only showcased the Find X9 and not the Find X9 Pro.

Smartphone Specifications Revealed

Zhou Yibao has disclosed specs and details about both upcoming flagship devices. Comparing it to the Apple iPhone 17, he stated that the Find X9 has a massive 7,025 mAh battery that “can power two iPhone 17s,” alongside impressive 80 W wired charging. On the other hand, the Find X9 Pro will feature a larger 7,500 mAh battery and the same wired charging technology.

Design Features

Additionally, Yibao hinted that the Find X9 series would come with cold-carved glass, similar to the Vivo X300 and Vivo X300 Pro. Both the Find X9 and Find X9 Pro are expected to have titanium-colored bodies with reportedly slimmer display bezels than the iPhone 17 and the previous iPhone 16 Pro (currently priced at $747 – refurbished on Amazon).

Enhancements and Launch Timing

Yibao also mentioned that the Find X9 series will include “video upgrades” aimed at competing with the iPhone, which is considered the benchmark in this domain. Furthermore, both models will leverage Hasselblad’s imaging technology, setting them apart from the OnePlus 15. As of now, it’s anticipated that Oppo will reveal the Find X9 and Find X9 Pro around the same time MediaTek launches its Dimensity 9500, which was previously expected on September 22.

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Tags: iPhone 17, Oppo Find X9
September 10, 2025

Apple Announces iPhone 17, iPhone Air, and iPhone 17 Pro Battery Specs

Key Takeaways

1. The iPhone 17’s battery capacity increased by 3.7% compared to the iPhone 16, while the iPhone 17 Pro saw an 18.7% increase, and the iPhone 17 Pro Max had an 8.6% increase.
2. The iPhone 17 Pro is Apple’s first smartphone with a battery capacity exceeding 5,000 mAh, just below the 20 Wh threshold for hazardous material classification.
3. The iPhone Air features a smaller battery of 3,149 mAh, which is 32.6% less than the iPhone 16 Plus.
4. The iPhone Air is designed to be slimmer at 5.64 millimeters, 27.6% thinner than its predecessor.
5. Apple offers a $99 magnetic power bank for the iPhone Air, extending battery life by up to 65%.

As is typical, Apple hasn’t disclosed the precise battery capacities for the new iPhones, but the EU energy labels on the Apple Online Store have made this information clear. The battery in the iPhone 17 has seen a slight increase of 3.7% compared to its predecessor, the iPhone 16. In contrast, the iPhone 17 Pro boasts a larger battery, with an increase of 18.7%, and the iPhone 17 Pro Max features an 8.6% higher capacity.

Battery Capacity Highlights

Notably, the iPhone 17 Pro marks a significant milestone as Apple’s first smartphone to have a battery capacity exceeding 5,000 mAh. This positions it just below the 20 Wh threshold, which requires batteries in Germany, Austria, and the USA to be classified as hazardous materials, leading to increased shipping costs.

iPhone Air Specifications

In contrast, the iPhone Air’s battery is considerably smaller, at 3,149 mAh, which is 32.6% less than the iPhone 16 Plus’s battery. However, the iPhone Air is also designed to be slimmer, coming in at 5.64 millimeters, which is 2.16 millimeters or 27.6% less thick. To help mitigate the impact of the smaller battery, Apple is providing a $99 magnetic power bank for iPhone Air users, which can attach to the back of the phone and extend battery life by up to 65%.

Source:
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Tags: iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone Air
September 10, 2025

Apple A19 and A19 Pro CPU Benchmarks Show Minor Performance Gain

Key Takeaways

1. Apple introduced the iPhone 17 series with A19 and A19 Pro chipsets, but no major performance enhancements are expected.
2. The A19 Pro chipset in the iPhone 17 Pro Max shows a 10% increase in CPU performance compared to the A18 Pro.
3. The standard iPhone 17 uses the A19 chipset, which is about 7% stronger than the previous iPhone 16.
4. Benchmark scores for the new devices are preliminary and may change with further testing.
5. Apple appears to have focused on improvements beyond just CPU performance for the iPhone 17 series.

Apple introduced the iPhone 17 series yesterday, along with the A19 and A19 Pro chipsets that power them. As mentioned before, it is not anticipated that the new chipsets will bring major enhancements in performance, and initial CPU benchmarks seem to support this view.

Benchmark Scores

According to reports from Geekbench, the Apple A19 Pro found in the iPhone 17 Pro Max achieves a single-core score of 3,781 and a multi-core score of 9,679. In comparison, the previous A18 Pro in last year’s iPhone 16 Pro Max scored 3,479 and 8,568 on the same tests. This suggests an approximate 10% increase in CPU performance for the new chipset.

Standard Model Performance

The regular iPhone 17 is powered by the A19 chipset, unlike its more advanced counterparts which utilize the A19 Pro. Last year, the A18 was only marginally slower than the A18 Pro in terms of CPU performance, and this trend seems to continue. The basic iPhone 17 achieves a score of 3,608 in the single-core test and 8,810 in the multi-core test. When compared to the iPhone 16, which recorded 3,377 and 8,362 in our assessments, the A19 and iPhone 17 appear to be roughly 7% stronger.

Future Benchmarking

It’s worth mentioning that these benchmarks are still preliminary and not fully verified for Apple’s latest devices. More reliable scores are likely to emerge in the days ahead, and we intend to put all four models of the iPhone 17 series through our extensive in-house testing. Until then, it seems that Apple has included significant improvements in areas other than just raw CPU performance.

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Tags: A19 Pro, Apple, iPhone 17
September 10, 2025

OnePlus 15 to Feature Ultra-High Refresh Rate Display

Key Takeaways

1. The iPhone 17 base model features a 120 Hz refresh rate display, improving from the previous 60 Hz display in non-Pro models.
2. OnePlus 15 is expected to showcase an “ultra-high” refresh rate display, potentially reaching 165 Hz.
3. Gaming phones like the Asus ROG Phone 9 series already offer refresh rates exceeding 120 Hz, indicating a trend in the smartphone market.
4. OnePlus 15 will likely include Qualcomm’s new Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip and a new camera system called DetailMax.
5. The OnePlus 15 is anticipated to have a larger battery while being lighter than its predecessor, with more details to be revealed in upcoming teasers.

The Apple iPhone 17 series brings several new features compared to the previous models. Notably, the base version now includes a 120 Hz refresh rate display, a significant improvement over the 60 Hz display that was part of the last generation’s non-Pro models.

OnePlus 15 Refresh Rate Expectations

Li Jie Louis, the president of OnePlus, has indicated that the forthcoming OnePlus 15 will boast an “ultra-high” refresh rate display, especially in light of the changes made to the iPhone 17’s display. To provide context, the current flagship from OnePlus, which utilizes the Snapdragon 8 Elite, already comes with a 120 Hz screen.

Although Li Jie Louis has not disclosed exact figures, recent speculation points to the OnePlus 15 featuring a refresh rate of 165 Hz. This wouldn’t be the first time a smartphone has had such high refresh rates, as there are already devices available with even faster screens.

Gaming Phones and the New Trend

For instance, the Asus ROG Phone 9 series includes models that flaunt a refresh rate of 185 Hz. However, it’s important to mention that most other flagship smartphones from non-gaming brands in China have mostly remained at the 120 Hz standard. Li Jie believes that the “ultra-high” refresh rate on the OnePlus 15 will lead to a new trend in the smartphone market.

In terms of specifications, the OnePlus 15 is anticipated to incorporate Qualcomm’s next-generation flagship system-on-chip, rumored to be named Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5. The company has also announced that it will introduce a new camera system, called DetailMax, which signifies the end of their collaboration with Hasselblad for flagship devices.

Future Teasers and Specs

Additionally, reports indicate that the upcoming OnePlus flagship will feature a bigger battery while being lighter than the previous model (16/512 GB currently priced at $929.99 on Amazon). The company plans to release more information through upcoming teasers.

Li Jie Louis shared this information on Weibo, translated from Chinese.

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Tags: iPhone 17, OnePlus 15, Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5
September 8, 2025

iPhone 17 Battery Capacity Benefits for eSIM Models Revealed

Key Takeaways

1. Apple is expected to utilize the space where the SIM card slot used to be in the iPhone 17 series, potentially increasing battery capacity.
2. The iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max may have about 5% larger battery capacity than previous models, while the base iPhone 17 may not see a similar increase.
3. The iPhone 17 Pro’s battery is projected to be 18.6% larger than the iPhone 16 Pro’s battery.
4. The iPhone 17 Air is likely to become slimmer at 0.22 inches, but its battery capacity may decrease by nearly 50%.
5. There are conflicting reports regarding the battery capacities, with some discrepancies noted in a leaked document from a South Korean mobile provider.

In the United States, iPhones have been without a SIM card slot for three years now. Up until this point, Apple hasn’t utilized this extra area, but that seems to be changing this year. This insight comes from a Chinese battery certification, as shared by the well-known Apple insider ShrimpApplePro on X. Therefore, it is likely to be quite credible. The iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max, which lack a physical SIM slot, are expected to provide about 5% more battery capacity compared to the models with a traditional SIM card tray.

Battery Capacity Changes

It appears that only the base model of the iPhone 17 will not gain a larger battery with the eSIM version, suggesting that Apple might not have invested the same effort in this case. There’s still no confirmation about whether European customers will receive the eSIM-only versions of the iPhone 17 series for the first time, although there have been some indications pointing to this possibility. Overall, the battery capacity is set to increase by a few percentage points compared to previous models, especially for the iPhone 17 Pro, which will feature a battery that is 18.6% larger than that of the current iPhone 16 Pro. The unofficial successor to the iPhone 16 Plus, likely named iPhone 17 Air, will see a reduction of nearly 50% in capacity but will become slimmer at just 0.22 inches in thickness.

Conflicting Information

These figures differ from those that appeared over the weekend in a leaked specification document from a South Korean mobile provider. In situations like this, we would generally trust the latest certification more. It’s possible that the Korean leak only referred to estimated figures in the related comparison chart.

Source:
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Tags: battery capacity, eSIM, iPhone 17
September 8, 2025

Get Exciting Camera Accessories for iPhone 17 Pro Before Launch

Key Takeaways

1. The Apple iPhone 17 will be revealed on September 9, featuring new photography accessories from Moment.
2. Moment offers nine lenses in the T series that enhance the iPhone 17’s camera capabilities, including telephoto and macro options.
3. Unique filters for iPhone 17 Pro models include a polarizing filter and a variable ND filter for improved video shooting.
4. Moment accessories are available for pre-order with a 25% discount until September 9.
5. Prices for Moment’s accessories include the Camera Case and QuickLink adapters at $41.25, with various filters priced between $30 and $67.50.

The Apple iPhone 17 is set to be revealed on Tuesday, September 9. Moment has already introduced a selection of unique accessories designed for those who love photography and videography. The Moment Camera Case, compatible with all four iPhone 17 models, enables the use of various accessories.

Diverse Lens Options

Among these are the nine lenses from the Moment T series, which can change the main camera of the iPhone 17 (Pro) into a telephoto or macro camera, among others. There are also optional QuickLink adapters that let users attach a wrist or shoulder strap to the bottom of the phone, allowing it to be carried like a camera, similar to Apple’s own crossbody strap.

Exciting Filters for Pro Models

What’s particularly intriguing are the filters that work only with the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max. Moment provides a polarizing filter that eliminates reflections from non-metal surfaces, and a variable ND filter that decreases incoming light by two to seven f-stops, helping to find the perfect shutter speed for video capturing. An adapter is available for standard 67mm filters, like those typically used with regular camera lenses.

Pre-order Opportunities

Moment’s latest accessories can be pre-ordered from the company’s website. They are currently offering a 25% discount until Tuesday, September 9. With this deal, the Camera Case and QuickLink adapters are priced at $41.25 each, while the 67mm filter adapter and UV filter are each $30. The polarizing filter is priced at $56.25, and the variable ND filter costs $67.50. These prices do not include shipping fees.

Source:
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Tags: iPhone 17, Photography Accessories
September 8, 2025

Apple iPhone 17: Detailed Look at New Crossbody Strap Design

Key Takeaways

1. The new crossbody strap for the iPhone 17 series is made from braided nylon and attaches through fabric loops.
2. It can be connected to Apple’s TechWoven Case and the redesigned clear case, despite the absence of specific mounting points on the iPhone 17.
3. The strap length is adjustable to fit different body sizes, and it will likely come in multiple colors beyond the shown orange.
4. Crossbody straps are popular for easy carrying of smartphones, especially for users without pockets and photography enthusiasts.
5. While similar straps are available for around $10, Apple’s version is expected to be more expensive and will be announced on September 9.

Apple’s latest crossbody strap for the iPhone 17 series was first seen in images back in April. Recently, SonnyDickson shared two more pictures that reportedly reveal the details of this strap. The strap seems to be crafted from braided nylon and attaches to the iPhone through two slender fabric loops.

Attachment and Compatibility

Even though the iPhone 17 does not have specific mounting points for the strap, it is anticipated that it can be connected to both Apple’s TechWoven Case and the newly redesigned clear case. Users can adjust the length of the crossbody strap to accommodate various body sizes. The images show an orange version of the strap, but Apple is likely to provide a wider range of colors, which may include green, brown, blue, purple, and black.

Popularity Among Users

Crossbody straps are favored by many users as they allow for easy smartphone carrying, even when wearing outfits without suitable pockets. Additionally, photography and video fans find these straps useful since they enable quicker access to the smartphone camera without needing to dig it out of a pocket.

Market Comparison and Expectations

The idea of a crossbody strap for smartphones isn’t exactly new, with many similar items available on Amazon for about $10. It is fair to predict that Apple’s official version will come with a significantly higher price. The strap is likely to be officially announced on Tuesday, September 9, alongside the iPhone 17 series.

Source:
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Tags: iPhone 17, smartphone accessories
September 8, 2025

DJI Mini 5 Pro: Official Images of Fly More Combo Contents

Key Takeaways

1. The new DJI Mini 5 Pro is expected to be revealed on September 16, 2025, coinciding with the iPhone 17 launch event.
2. The drone features a 1-inch camera and LiDAR sensors, appealing to new enthusiasts.
3. Two main drone packages are available: the standard Fly More Combo and optional Plus packages with larger batteries.
4. The standard package includes smaller batteries for 36 minutes of flight time, while Plus packages allow for 52 minutes with larger batteries.
5. Budget-friendly options include a basic controller without a display, while a pricier package features a controller with a built-in monitor.

If the new DJI mini drone is really set to be revealed on September 16, 2025, we can expect the official teaser to drop on the same day as the iPhone 17 launch event, which is next Tuesday. For those who enjoy sneak peeks, there has been quite a bit of info circulating for weeks now. Just yesterday, tipsters like Igor Bogdanov shared some official renderings of the DJI Mini 5 Pro, featuring a 1-inch camera and LiDAR sensors that are bound to attract a lot of new enthusiasts.

Details on Drone Packages

The images released today come from his collection, but some were also spotted on Reddit. They showcase the key items in the two main drone packages for the successor of the DJI Mini 4 Pro, which DJI typically names the Fly More Combo. Earlier leaks suggest that these packages include smaller 2,785mAh batteries, which provide 36 minutes of flight time per charge while keeping the weight under the 250-gram limit needed for recreational drone flying in many places. In certain areas, there are also optional Plus packages that come with larger 3,350mAh batteries, enabling 52 minutes of uninterrupted flight time, though they do add extra weight.

Affordable Package Options

The budget-friendly drone package features the combo with the DJI RC-N3 controller, which does not have a display. Along with the mini drone and remote control, this package includes a gimbal protector, three Intelligent Flight Batteries, six sets of propellers, a filter kit, a charging cable, a carrying case, and a battery charger.

You can see the Fly More Combo contents with the DJI RC2 from a different angle below. This remote control is pricier but comes with a built-in control monitor. Other than that, the package contains the same items as the one with the less expensive controller.

Source:
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Tags: DJI Mini 5 Pro, Fly More Combo, iPhone 17