Regular and Pro iPhones are on the verge of converging. Apple has finally equipped the base iPhone 17 with a 48MP ultra wide camera and a larger 120Hz always-on display, redefining what a non-Pro iPhone can do. The highest-end iPhone is no longer as enticing, since the cheaper model now offers most of the same perks for less.
However, that doesn’t mean power users won’t still appreciate the Pro iPhone’s exceptional performance and exclusive benefits. Not sure what it excels at? Here are 9 tips and tricks to make the most of your iPhone 17 Pro or 17 Pro Max.
Productivity on the go
Like previous years, the entry-level iPhone 17 got a cut-back version of Apple’s latest mobile SoC. iPhone 17 Pro users get to utilize the superior A19 Pro, which scores higher in the relevant CPU performance tests. That’s not all, however.
The iPhone 17 Pro also packs a vapor chamber thermal management system. A cooler processor can generally perform better for longer periods of time, providing iPhone 17 Pro users with a more reliable experience. So, what does this mean for you?
Well, with iOS 26, Apple introduced a new Background Tasks API, allowing third-party developers to keep their apps running—even when they’re not in the foreground. Instead of having to keep a compatible app open and wait for an intensive task to finish, you can now use your iPhone for other matters. The ongoing process, such as exporting a large video file, will then complete in the background. This can help you be more productive when away from your Mac.
Proper gaming
Likewise, the A19 Pro chip comes with an improved GPU that makes the iPhone 17 Pro ideal for gaming. While yes, it won’t replace your PlayStation, it can run graphically demanding mobile games fluidly. The existing Game Mode reduces background activities when you play, while also minimizing latency for connected Bluetooth accessories—like AirPods and game controllers. You can also personalize your compatible controller’s preferences using the iPhone’s Settings app.
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With iOS 26, your iPhone 17 Pro is even more gamer-friendly, as it packs Apple Games. Through this new app, you can explore trending titles, view the Apple Arcade storefront, check what your Game Center friends are playing, and challenge others. It’s a neat way to discover new games, learn about special in-app events, and monitor your achievements.
Prompt processing
Beyond the CPU and GPU, the A19 Pro boasts an advanced Neural Engine, letting it perform AI tasks locally. While Apple still doesn’t offer the public a ChatGPT-like app, you can manually create one using the built-in Shortcuts app. However, that isn’t always reliable or as intuitive to use. Fortunately, Apple Intelligence’s foundation model is now available to third-party developers.
Locally AI is a free, lightweight app I use to chat with LLMs while offline, including Apple’s foundation model. The app only occupies around 40MBs of storage and doesn’t require you to download any additional models to function—assuming you’ve already enabled Apple Intelligence. If you’re unhappy with Apple’s AI tech, you can directly download models from other companies, including Google’s Gemma and Meta’s Llama. It’s an excellent way to utilize AI chatbots privately or in areas with spotty cellular service.
ProRAW shooting
While the telephoto lens may be the most obvious camera exclusive, the iPhone 17 Pro offers other photography perks unavailable on the base iPhone 17. With the ProRAW feature, you can capture RAW images that preserve more data, giving you unconfined control over the colors, lighting, and details when editing in post. Given the basic nature of the built-in Photos app, you may want to edit RAW photos using Apple-owned Photomator or the industry-standard Adobe Lightroom.
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You can enable the ProRAW toggle in the Formats section of Camera settings. Keep in mind, however, that RAW photos consume a lot of storage, so you may want to limit the use of ProRAW to professional (and not everyday) shots.
ProRes recording
Similarly, the iPhone 17 Pro can exclusively shoot LOG 2 and ProRes RAW videos, which can be indispensable for serious mobile videographers. Like ProRAW images, the uncompressed video files will be significantly larger and offer more flexibility when applying LUTs. You can also explore Apple’s Final Cut Camera app if you find the built-in Camera app too limited for your needs.
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If you’re more of a casual vlogger, you may want to try the new Dual Capture video recording feature restricted to the iPhone 17 series. The tool enables you to record footage using the front and rear cameras simultaneously—ideal for sharing your reaction in real time.
Projection mapping
The iPhone 17 Pro’s camera exclusives aren’t limited to uncompressed photos and videos. Thanks to the embedded LiDAR Scanner, you can use your iPhone to 3D-map your surroundings. It’s a solid way to get a digital blueprint of your living space or virtually place furniture before committing to the purchase. The bundled Measure app acts as a relatively basic LiDAR-enabled ruler, and you can download more advanced third-party tools from the App Store.
Transfer big projects quickly
Another handy iPhone 17 Pro hardware perk is the superior USB-C port. While AirDrop is generally reliable for sharing small and medium-sized files, transferring large chunks of data wirelessly can be challenging and time-consuming. Thanks to the Pro iPhone’s USB 3 speeds, you can transfer files at up to 10Gb/s via a wired connection.
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Product extensions
Speaking of speed, the iPhone 17 Pro also supports fast charging, assuming you’re relying on compatible accessories. With a supported 40W adapter, you go from nearly-dead to half charged in only around 20 minutes. If you’re more of a wireless charging kind of person, you’ll have to settle for 25W MagSafe or Qi2 pads.
Beyond chargers, you may also want to invest in a portable SSD if you plan to shoot in the aforementioned formats on the go, as you’ll quickly run out of internal space. Plus, certain ProRes resolutions are only available when an SSD is connected to your iPhone.
Prolific power
iPhone 17 Pro models got an energy boost this year, with the Pro Max variant boasting the longest battery life ever on an iPhone. If you’re not sure what to do with all the extra power, you’ll be delighted to learn that you can actually charge other devices using the USB-C port. Though, given the phone’s restrictions, you’re limited to charging smaller accessories, like your AirPods or Apple Watch. It’s still a handy way to recharge your wearables when away from a power source, nevertheless.
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