iPhone 17 Pro Max: The ultimate upgrade or just another hype? Dubai professionals weigh in

Dubai: With leaks, rumors, and spec speculation heating up around the upcoming iPhone 17 Pro Max, the buzz in Dubai’s creative and tech-savvy circles is already building. But is Apple’s latest flagship really worth the upgrade? We asked professionals from across the city what it would take for them to trade in their current iPhones — and what Apple still needs to get right.

“Unless it’s game-changing, I’m holding off” — Renier Ross Loresto, 29, Project Manager.

For Loresto, the iPhone 16 Pro is already delivering everything he needs.

“Excellent performance, battery life, and camera quality — I’m in no rush,” he says. “Unless the iPhone 17 brings something truly transformative, I’ll wait.”

But he’s got a wish list:

“Better battery life, major AI features, in-screen Face ID, and faster charging would catch my attention. The upgrade needs to feel like a leap — not a step.”

He also wants to see Apple level the playing field:

“Give the 120Hz screen to all models, not just the Pro. That smoother display experience should be a standard now.”

Barcelona, Partner and Head of Operations at an advertising agency in Dubai, is eagerly anticipating the release of the iPhone 17 Pro Max. She shared her excitement:

“The iPhone 17 isn’t just a phone — it’s the future of performance, design, and intelligence, all in the palm of your hand. I’ll definitely be buying the iPhone 17 Pro Max because I believe it’s not just an upgrade — it’s a leap forward in mobile technology.

With its next-gen silicon architecture, AI-enhanced performance, and a display that redefines clarity, it’s built for those who demand speed, security, and seamless integration across every aspect of their digital lives.

If you want a device that anticipates your needs before you tap, swipe, or speak — this is it!”

“It’s my pro-level backup camera” — Mark Anthony Puentesfina, 41, Media Creator.

For media creator Puentesfina, the iPhone has already earned its place as a trusted tool on shoots.

“Absolutely — it’s a powerful, portable backup. When my main cameras aren’t around, the iPhone delivers near-pro-level footage.”

What keeps him loyal to Apple?

“Still the best smartphone video quality out there. And the iOS ecosystem makes everything seamless — from connecting devices to sharing files.”

He’s keeping an open mind about the design rumors:

“Friends are buzzing about the leaked look, but I’ll wait until it’s in hand. That’s when I’ll really know if it’s worth it.”

“It’s all about the camera and content creation,” says Santiago Chu, 24, Brand and Events Manager in Dubai.

Chu isn’t jumping in just yet — but he’s watching closely.

“The upgrades are impressive, but I want to see if the real-world performance justifies the jump from iPhone 16,” he says. “If it’s just incremental, I might skip it.”

What would push him to upgrade? The rumored 24MP front camera and 8K video recording.

“That’s huge for content creators,” he adds. “If Apple nails the software to match that power, it could be a game-changer.”

His one wish for Apple?

“Give us a rear camera preview screen like Samsung’s Fold or Flip. Creators want the best quality selfies and videos using the main camera — that would make a huge difference.”

Apple fans in Dubai are excited — but not blindly so. From next-gen cameras and real AI smarts to more inclusive features across all models, the message is clear: the iPhone 17 Pro Max has to bring more than just polish — it has to deliver power, creativity, and real innovation.

So — are you upgrading?