Apple’s iPhone 17 has been selected as “Phone of the Year” in the 2025 edition of the smartphone awards by YouTuber and tech reviewer Marques Brownlee (MKBHD), who praised the model for achieving “the most complete and actually kind of a great deal.”
The recognition reflects a broader consensus among reviewers that iPhone 17 brings flagship-level display, performance and storage improvements to Apple’s base model — delivering a package that balances capabilities and price. For many prospective buyers, especially those upgrading from older iPhones or switching from mid-range Android devices, the iPhone 17 now represents arguably the strongest value proposition in Apple’s lineup.
MKBHD’s decision follows a year in which Apple’s standard model received upgrades previously reserved for Pro versions: a 120 Hz ProMotion display, larger base storage, camera enhancements and the same core chipset architecture used in higher-end variants.
In addition to clinching “Phone of the Year,” the iPhone 17 was also awarded “Most Improved,” underscoring how this generation elevated the baseline iPhone experience.
As the smartphone market continues to mature, iPhone 17’s acclaim suggests that high performance, balanced pricing and polished user experience remain decisive — particularly as consumer expectations evolve away from spec-heavy flagships toward solid everyday use and value.
