I’ve been using the iPhone 17 Pro Max for about a week now, and while the internet is already flooded with detailed spec breakdowns, I just want to talk about two things that absolutely blew my mind: the zoom and the battery life. Both are, in a word, bananas.
Let’s start with the zoom. If you’re a Samsung user, I know what you’re thinking — “We’ve had crazy zoom for ages.” And yes, you have. But listen, the 8x optical zoom on the iPhone 17 Pro Max is next-level. This isn’t your average digital crop — it’s actual optical zoom, meaning the clarity is insane. There’s also digital zoom up to 40x, but even at high zoom levels, the image quality is absurdly good. I vividly remember the days when I taught “cameras on phones… that’s not going to work.” Now I’m taking sharp, high-quality shots from across the street.
Hillel Fuld on the iPhone 17 Pro Max
Second, and maybe more important: battery life. It’s outrageous. I was on the 16 Pro Max before, which had solid battery life, but this is something else entirely. I’m a heavy user — videos, editing, streaming, music, social media, all of it — and I’m ending my days with 40–50% battery left. I haven’t had to reach for a charger once mid-day. That’s unheard of.
A quick note for those trying to decide between models: if you’re on anything before the 16 Pro Max, the 17 Pro Max is a no-brainer upgrade. From the zoom to the battery, it’s worth the leap. If you’re on the 16, it depends on your budget. It’s not a must upgrade, but the improvements are legit.
As for the new iPhone Air — it’s gorgeous. Titanium body, super lightweight, beautifully engineered. But it’s got compromises: only one speaker, no wide or macro lens and weaker battery life. So if you’re all about design, sure, it’s stunning. But if you want performance, the Pro Max wins, hands down.
Bottom line? The iPhone 17 Pro Max is an absolute beast. Pricey, yes — but if you’ve got the budget and want the best, it’s an easy recommendation.