Apple's 2025-2026 iPhone Lineup, Explained

Apple now splits its iPhone range three ways, and the differences go beyond just price.

The iPhone 17 is the entry point at $799 (since raised to $899), with a 120Hz OLED display, the A19 chip, and a dual 48MP camera — the first base-model iPhone to get a high-refresh display.

The iPhone Air sits in an unusual middle position: not the cheapest, not the most powerful, but the thinnest iPhone Apple has built, at just 5.64mm thick and 165 grams. It trades a second rear camera for that slimness, running the more powerful A19 Pro chip despite the non-Pro branding.

The iPhone 18 Pro (and Pro Max) sit at the top with the new A20 Pro chip, a full 48MP triple-camera system including a proper telephoto lens, and up to 45 hours of video playback on the Pro Max.

For most buyers, the question isn't which is "best" but which trade-off fits: base price, thinness, or camera versatility.