The world is buzzing with excitement as Apple prepares to launch the highly anticipated iPhone 17 lineup on September 9, 2025. With new models like the iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and Pro Max, Apple fans are already debating whether to upgrade their devices. But beyond the hype, there’s a bigger financial question to consider:
Should you spend your money on buying the new iPhone 17, or would you be better off investing the same amount into Apple’s stock (AAPL)?
In this article, we’ll break down the cost of the iPhone 17, compare it with the potential returns of buying 5 shares of Apple stock, and analyze what makes more sense from an investor’s perspective.
iPhone 17 Launch: Key Highlights
Apple’s “Awe Dropping” event is expected to showcase major upgrades in the iPhone 17 lineup.
Some standout features include:
• Ultra-thin design (as slim as 5.5 mm on the iPhone 17 Air)
• Reverse wireless charging (a long-awaited feature)
• 120Hz OLED displays for smoother visuals
• Upgraded A19 Pro chip with improved battery efficiency
• eSIM-only models in select markets
• Enhanced cameras and AI-powered photo editing
In terms of pricing:
The iPhone 17 Pro is expected to start at ~AED 4,403 / ~$1,610 . ( source: online research)
The iPhone 17 Air may start at
~AED 3,799 / ~$1,440 ( source: online research )
This means a new iPhone 17 could cost between $1,400 and $1,600, depending on the model and storage option.
Apple Stock (AAPL) Today :
Note : ( Market is Closed Today ; 1st September - (international labor day ))
As of early September 2025, Apple’s stock (AAPL) is trading around $232.14 per share.
5 shares of Apple = $232 × 5 = $1,160
That’s nearly the same as the cost of iphone 17.
So, the financial dilemma is clear:
Spend $1,160 on a new iPhone, or buy 5 shares of the company that makes it?
* The Depreciation of an iPhone vs. Appreciation of Apple Stock :
1. iPhone as a “Depreciating Asset”
When you buy an iPhone 17:
Its value drops the moment you unbox it.
After 1 year, the resale value usually falls by 25–30%.( source: online research)
After 3 years, an iPhone typically retains only 30–40% of its original price.( source:online research)
Example:
Buy iPhone 17 Pro for $1,600.
After 3 years, resale value may be only $500–$600.
Net loss = around $1,000.
2. Apple Stock as a “Growing Asset”
On the other hand, Apple’s stock has shown consistent long-term growth:
In 2015, AAPL was trading around $30 (split-adjusted).
In 2025, it’s $232 .
That’s a 7x return in 10 years
If Apple continues to innovate with iPhones, wearables, AI, and services, its stock could keep appreciating.
A $1,160 investment today (5 shares) could potentially double in 5–7 years if Apple maintains strong growth.
Financial Perspective: Numbers Don’t Lie
Let’s compare what happens if you choose an iPhone vs. Apple stock:
Option Today’s Value Value in 3 Years (2028) Value in 5 Years (2030)
iPhone 17 Pro $1,600 ~$550 (resale) ~$250 (resale)
5 Apple Shares $1,160 ~$1,740 (est.) ~$2,530 (est.)
Note: These stock projections are based on Apple’s historical growth trends and are not financial guarantees.
Clearly, while the iPhone loses value quickly, Apple shares have the potential to grow significantly.
The Emotional Factor:
Utility vs. Investment
Of course, not everything is about numbers.
.Buying an iPhone gives you:
• A powerful tool for work, creativity, and communication.
• Access to Apple’s ecosystem (iCloud, Apple Pay, AI-powered features).
• Status symbol appeal for many users.
Meanwhile, buying Apple stock gives you:
• Ownership in the company.
• Potential for long-term financial growth.
• Dividend income (Apple pays quarterly dividends, currently around 0.5–1%).
So, the choice comes down to immediate utility vs. future wealth creation.
Smart Middle Path: iPhone + Investment
If you absolutely want the iPhone 17 but also don’t want to miss out on Apple’s growth story, consider a balanced approach:
Buy a lower model (e.g., iPhone 17 Air for ~$1,400).
Invest the remaining $200–300 in Apple stock. ( Nearly 1 share )
Or, hold on to your current iPhone for one more year and invest the entire $1,600 into AAPL stock. ( More than 5 share)
This way, you’re not fully sacrificing either lifestyle or investment.
Why Apple Stock Is Attractive in 2025
1. Strong Ecosystem Revenue :
Apple earns not just from iPhones, but also from App Store, iCloud, Apple Music, Apple TV+, and services.
2. Expanding AI & Wearables :
With AI-powered features and products like Vision Pro, Apple is diversifying.
3. Loyal Customer Base :
iPhone upgrade cycles keep demand stable.
4. Share Buybacks & Dividends :
Apple returns billions to shareholders every year.
5. Market Leader Advantage :
Despite competition, Apple dominates the premium smartphone market .
CONCLUSION:
iPhone or Apple Stock?
At the end of the day, the decision depends on your priorities:
If you need the latest device for productivity, creativity, or status, the iPhone 17 makes sense.
If you want to grow your wealth, investing the same money into Apple stock could give you far better returns.
Investor’s Perspective: An iPhone depreciates, Apple stock appreciates. One gives you instant utility, the other builds long-term wealth. Ideally, aim for a balance — but if wealth creation is your priority, 5 shares of Apple may be worth far more than one iPhone 17 in the years ahead.
If you find it formative & enjoyed reading my blog , please share to your social links.