Best Apple iPhone 17 deals as iPhone 18 Pro and foldable unveiled
Apple’s September event introduced the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, featuring a 48‑megapixel camera with variable aperture, upgraded Siri, and up to 45 hours of video playback. Prices start at £1,199, while the iPhone 17 Pro has been discounted to £999. The event also revealed a foldable iPhone Duo a…
Apple’s September 2024 launch event, hosted by new CEO John Ternus, showcased the company’s latest flagship iPhones, the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. The two devices look almost identical to last year’s Pro models, but they come in new colours and are powered by a new, more powerful processor. The event also highlighted a range of other new products, including a foldable iPhone called the Duo, updated Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4, and new AirPods 5 earbuds.
iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max: What’s new?
The iPhone 18 Pro and its larger sibling, the Pro Max, bring several key upgrades over the 17‑series. Both models feature a brand‑new 48‑megapixel main camera that introduces a variable aperture for the first time on an iPhone. This change gives photographers greater flexibility in low‑light conditions and brings camera performance closer to that of traditional DSLRs.
Apple also announced a significant boost to Siri, the company’s virtual assistant, as part of its new “Apple Intelligence” suite. The assistant is expected to understand context better and provide more accurate responses across apps. In addition, the larger Pro Max model boasts a claimed battery life of up to 45 hours of video playback, a notable improvement over its predecessor.
Pricing for the new flagship line starts at £1,199 for the 18 Pro and £1,299 for the 18 Pro Max. Both models are available for pre‑order from Friday 18 September, with delivery expected shortly thereafter. The price increase of £100 over the previous year’s models reflects the new hardware and software enhancements.
Why the iPhone 17 Pro still matters
Despite the launch of the 18 Pro line, the iPhone 17 Pro remains a compelling choice for many buyers. Retailers such as Currys and John Lewis have slashed the price of the 512GB 17 Pro model to £999, bringing it below the £1,000 threshold. Currys is also offering a 20% discount on selected accessories when purchased with the phone, adding extra value for those looking to upgrade their ecosystem.
For consumers weighing the cost against the new features, the 17 Pro offers a familiar design, proven performance, and a lower price point. It also continues to support the latest iOS updates and receives the same software enhancements, such as the improved Siri and Apple Intelligence features, as the newer models.
Other new Apple products from the event
Apple didn’t stop at the iPhone. The event also unveiled a foldable phone, the iPhone Duo, which resembles a passport in size. When closed, it has a 5.4‑inch display; when opened, the screen expands to 7.6 inches. The Duo is the most expensive iPhone ever, starting at £1,999, and will be available for pre‑order on 16 October, with general sale beginning 23 October.
Watch enthusiasts will notice the release of the Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4. Both models feature an upgraded health‑tracking system that measures heart rate data every five seconds, a significant improvement over the previous five‑minute intervals. The new watches also introduce Audio Intelligence, which can recognise sounds like doorbells and rewind audio to provide context.
AirPods 5 earbuds were also announced, with a noise‑canceling model priced at £129 and a new version with a wireless charging case and volume controls at £149. These prices match or undercut the previous AirPods 4 lineup.
What’s next for Apple buyers?
For those ready to upgrade, the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are available for pre‑order now, with delivery starting 18 September. The iPhone 17 Pro continues to be discounted, making it a budget‑friendly alternative. The foldable iPhone Duo will launch later in the year, while the new Apple Watch and AirPods models will hit the market soon after the event.
Apple has not yet announced a base iPhone 18 model, which is expected to be released next year. Until then, the Pro line remains the flagship option for users seeking the latest camera and performance upgrades.
Key takeaways
- The iPhone 18 Pro starts at £1,199, with a 48‑MP camera and variable aperture.
- Battery life on the Pro Max can reach up to 45 hours of video playback.
- The iPhone 17 Pro is now priced at £999, offering strong value for its features.
- Apple introduced the foldable iPhone Duo, priced at £1,999 and available from 23 October.
- New Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 models feature faster heart‑rate monitoring and Audio Intelligence.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When can I pre‑order the iPhone 18 Pro? Pre‑orders begin on Friday 18 September, with delivery expected shortly after.
- Is the iPhone 17 Pro still a good buy? Yes, the 17 Pro is discounted to £999, making it a cost‑effective choice while still receiving the latest iOS updates.
- What is the price of the new foldable iPhone? The iPhone Duo starts at £1,999 and will be available for pre‑order on 16 October.
Why it matters
Apple’s new flagship devices push camera and battery technology forward while offering consumers a range of price points. The availability of discounted 17‑series models ensures that budget‑conscious buyers still have access to top‑tier features.
Key points
- iPhone 18 Pro starts at £1,199 with a 48‑MP camera and variable aperture
- Battery life on the Pro Max reaches up to 45 hours of video playback
- iPhone 17 Pro is discounted to £999, offering strong value
- Foldable iPhone Duo launches later this year at £1,999
- Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 include faster heart‑rate monitoring and Audio Intelligence
Frequently asked questions
When can I pre‑order the iPhone 18 Pro?
Pre‑orders begin on Friday 18 September, with delivery expected shortly after.
Is the iPhone 17 Pro still a good buy?
Yes, the 17 Pro is discounted to £999, making it a cost‑effective choice while still receiving the latest iOS updates.
What is the price of the new foldable iPhone?
The iPhone Duo starts at £1,999 and will be available for pre‑order on 16 October.
