Apple iPhone 17 series hits Indian market, enthusiasts line up in huge numbers

Apple’s newly launched iPhone 17 series went on sale in India on Thursday, drawing massive crowds and long queues outside flagship stores in Mumbai and Delhi. Eager buyers gathered to be among the first to get their hands on the latest devices.

The lineup unveiled globally on September 9, 2025, includes the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro Max, AirPods 3, Watch Series 11, Watch SE3, and Watch Ultra 3.

In Mumbai, visuals showed two long queues outside the Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) store, arranged to manage smooth entry. However, many customers expressed frustration over the lack of security. Mohan Yadav, who travelled from Ahmedabad, said he had been waiting since early morning. "I have been waiting since the morning. Have been standing in a queue, but the security here has no responsibility. People are breaking lines. Those standing behind don't get the chance to buy the product due to a lack of responsibility among the security officials. I have been here from 5 am," he told ANI.

While some faced inconvenience, others were visibly excited. Mumbai resident Bayan Kapoor said, "Apple fever is quite high among the public. The reviews of the phone are good. I just want to buy it now, provided I get a chance. I don't know if I can buy it or not due to the large crowd."

Customers who managed to secure the new devices shared their enthusiasm. Amaan Memon, holding his new iPhone 17 Pro Max, said, "I am very excited for the iPhone 17 Pro Max series. This time, Apple has a new design. It features the A19 Bionic chip, so the gaming experience will be enhanced. I have been waiting for this colour for the last 6 months, when I came to know that this colour is going to be launched." Another buyer, Irfan, added, "I've come to buy the orange iPhone 17 PRO Max. I've been waiting since 8 pm. This time, there are changes to the camera and battery, and the look is also different."

A similar rush was seen outside the Apple outlet at Select Citywalk Mall in New Delhi, where people waited overnight, sitting outside the gates to ensure they were among the first to purchase the phones.

Apple’s top-tier models, the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max, headline the new lineup alongside the standard iPhone 17 and the all-new iPhone Air. According to Apple, the Pro models come with an aluminium build, the biggest battery ever in an iPhone, and a redesigned "full-width camera plateau" across the back.

The Verge reported that the iPhone 17 Pro starts at USD 1,099, while the Pro Max is priced at USD 1,199, both offering 256GB storage. The Pro models feature a dramatic rear design shift, with the camera module now extending across the body. The triple-camera system has received a significant boost, with all three lenses upgraded to 48 megapixels. The telephoto lens in particular now features a 56 per cent larger sensor, offering up to 8x optical-quality zoom.

The iPhone 17 Pro sports a 6.3-inch display, while the Pro Max comes with a 6.9-inch screen. Both are available in silver, blue, and a striking orange finish that stands out compared to earlier Pro models.