That’s a fun way to think about it! Since a new iPhone costs far more than a dollar, the challenge is really about maximizing the value of the money you spend and setting up a strategy to afford the total cost.
The iPhone 17 is projected to be released in September 2025.1 Here is a breakdown of the estimated pricing and the best ways to save significantly on your purchase.
💰 Projected iPhone 17 Pricing (Est. September 2025)
Based on recent launch trends and early analyst reports, the iPhone 17 line is expected to start at slightly higher prices than its predecessors, particularly with rumors of increased base storage and a new “Air” model.2
| Model | Estimated Starting Price | Key Change (Rumored) |
| iPhone 17 (Base) | $799 – $849 | May finally feature ProMotion (120Hz) display. |
| iPhone 17 Air (New) | $899 – $1,099 | Expected to be an ultra-thin design replacing the “Plus.” |
| iPhone 17 Pro | $1,049 – $1,199 | Higher base storage (256GB), upgraded cameras. |
| iPhone 17 Pro Max | $1,249 – $1,399 | Largest display, most advanced camera/battery. |
Note: These are estimated prices based on leaks and analyst predictions prior to the official launch.
💸 How to Save Big on the iPhone 17
The best way to “spend a dollar” towards your iPhone 17 is to use it to initiate a savings plan, and the surest way to cut the final price is through trade-in deals and carrier offers.
1. Maximize Your Trade-In Value (The Biggest Saving)
Trading in your current device is the single most effective way to lower the price.
- Carrier Trade-Ins: This is often the best deal. Major carriers (Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T) frequently offer the most aggressive promotions, often valuing older phones above their market rate to secure a multi-year service contract. Offers often range from $800 to over $1,100 off the new iPhone with an eligible trade-in and a new line/plan commitment.3 (The discount is usually applied as monthly bill credits).
- Apple Trade-In: Apple offers a straightforward credit (up to $670 for the iPhone 16 Pro Max, for example) that can be applied immediately to the cost of the new phone or given as an Apple Gift Card.
- Pro Tip: Keep your current phone in excellent condition. Even a small screen crack can significantly reduce the trade-in value.
2. Utilize Upgrade and Payment Programs
- iPhone Upgrade Program: If you buy directly from Apple, this program allows you to get a new iPhone every year by paying off 12 months of the 24-month loan, trading in the old phone, and starting a new plan.4 It includes AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss.
- Carrier Upgrade Programs (e.g., Visible, Spectrum Mobile): Some carriers or financing partners will pay off up to 50% of your remaining phone balance when you choose to upgrade to a newer model with them, effectively allowing you to upgrade sooner.5
3. Financial and Membership Discounts
- Education Pricing: If you are a student, teacher, or staff member, you can often qualify for Apple’s Education Store which provides a small but guaranteed discount on the device and accessories.6
- Credit Card Rewards/Cashback: Using a credit card that offers high cashback (e.g., 3-5%) on electronics or Apple purchases can net you a significant amount back, especially on the Pro models.
- Warehouse Clubs (e.g., Costco/Sam’s Club): These retailers occasionally offer gift cards or minor discounts on iPhones with carrier activation around the launch period.
📈 Your “Dollar-to-iPhone” Savings Plan
Start today by turning your “dollar” into an initial investment and strategy:
- Set Up a Dedicated Savings Account: Start by transferring that first dollar (and then $\$20-\$50$ or more weekly/monthly) into a separate, high-yield savings account earmarked for the iPhone 17.
- Research Carrier Deals: Begin tracking what current trade-in deals are being offered by your carrier and their competitors now. Use this to set a Trade-In Goal Value for your current phone.
- Sell Your Old Phone Outright: If you don’t use the carrier trade-in, selling your current, older iPhone privately (eBay, Swappa, etc.) just before the iPhone 17 launch will often yield more cash than the standard Apple Trade-In program.
Would you like me to use the flights tool to check for the cost of a hypothetical flight to Cupertino, CA, for the expected September 2025 launch event?
