Someone tested the iPhone 17 for two months and says it changed their perception of phones.
Sometimes a regular iPhone is what you need to reset your expectations.
I confess I wasn't thrilled with the base iPhone 17 since it lacked Pro or Air features. Used to top-tier Android devices, I wasn't excited to test a standard iPhone model.
But I was wrong.
The affordable iPhone 17 is a surprise, revitalizing the basic iPhone concept.
I usually want a 5,000 mAh battery, telephoto lens with 3X optical zoom, and an ultrasonic fingerprint scanner on Android, but the iPhone 17 reset my expectations for a phone.
Sometimes simple is best.
How did an Android enthusiast find value in a phone with restricted software, dual camera, and few standout features?
The iPhone 17 is a plain phone that is great at the fundamentals, offering comfort and highlighting often overlooked features.
The iPhone 17 has a day-long battery, a capable dual camera, and ProMotion display, completing the base iPhone and matching Apple's Pro models.
The battery life isn't amazing, needing a recharge by 4pm with heavy use. While this is a drawback, daily charging becomes routine. Battery isn't a concern with easy access to outlets or a MagSafe powerbank. However, some users may dislike the iPhone 17's battery.
Forget GAS, consistency is key
Gear Acquisition Syndrome is a pitfall for creatives. The desire to switch devices for a better camera is a constant struggle.
A 1-inch sensor with 120X zoom is impressive, but the iPhone 17's photos are great. Apple excels in portrait photography, which is useful as a parent.
The Oppo Find X8 Ultra and Vivo X200 Pro have many features, but my photos of my kids were sometimes poor. While the iPhone 17's camera isn't special, it delivers reliable results.
Finally, a good display
I was wary of standard iPhones because of their dated 60Hz screens. Many compact Android phones have had 120 Hz screens for years, making it a common feature.
The iPhone 17's ProMotion fills the last gap in the iPhone's specs. The display's refresh rate blends in, easing the transition from my regular premium Android phones.
Impressive audio
Apple excels at phone audio. Few iPhone 17 competitors sound as good, and those are pricier. The iPhone's bass and wide soundstage highlight the audio capabilities of other phones.
Conclusion
Reviewers frequently switch phones, transferring data across ecosystems, making each device feel temporary. It's easy to miss the details while chasing the next upgrade, but the basic iPhone 17 can reset your relationship with tech.