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ZDNET’s comprehensive insights highlight that the new iPhone 17 lineup introduces a square-shaped sensor specifically crafted for Center Stage functionality in selfie photography. Apple has also integrated remarkably advanced video stabilization into the device’s front-facing camera—an enhancement that, while subtle on paper, proves immensely practical in real-world use. Importantly, these features are not limited to a single premium device but are present across all four versions of the iPhone 17 family.
When I upgraded from my iPhone 16 Pro to the latest iPhone 17 Pro Max, I initially assumed that the upgrades I would notice most would stem from the inclusion of the long-awaited 4x telephoto lens or the cutting-edge vapor cooling chamber designed for sustained performance. However, after spending several weeks exploring the phone’s full capabilities, I found myself increasingly captivated by a different, and somewhat unexpected, highlight—the selfie camera itself. It may sound surprising, but this seemingly minor component quickly became the feature I now appreciate the most.
Many casual observers may be tempted to dismiss this new front-facing camera as a trivial adjustment, perhaps seeing only its boosted 18-megapixel rating as an incremental change. Yet, this improvement extends far beyond a simple increase in resolution. It represents a significant quality-of-life advancement—an innovation designed to simplify daily interactions and enhance creativity rather than merely offering a numerical spec bump. The refined sensor, which is standard across all models including the ultra-thin iPhone Air, introduces functionalities so convenient that rival manufacturers will almost certainly attempt to emulate them, not in pursuit of novelty but because these additions meaningfully elevate the user experience.
A larger innovation than it first appears, the iPhone 17’s Center Stage selfie system constitutes a subtle revolution in mobile imaging. The redesigned 18MP sensor, now embedded in a distinctive square housing, supports an intelligent framing mechanism that eliminates the need to manually switch the phone’s orientation when shooting landscape selfies. Through sophisticated software, the camera detects how many subjects are within the frame and automatically adjusts its cropping and positioning to ensure everyone remains perfectly captured. The results are consistently accurate and, most importantly, effortless.
Apple’s implementation of Center Stage stands out among AI-powered features because of its reliability and simplicity. It functions seamlessly in the background, sparing the user from having to navigate through settings menus or toggles. Better still, its compatibility extends to popular third-party platforms, meaning its benefits are experienced well beyond the native camera app. I particularly appreciate how it activates automatically during WhatsApp video calls—something that transforms even everyday conversations. As I often move around while chatting or handling chores, the auto-tracking feature keeps me centered in the frame, preventing the exasperation of constantly readjusting the device. It’s a small comfort, but it noticeably reduces the frustration my restless movement once caused during calls. Having already enjoyed Center Stage on my MacBook Air for professional meetings, I am delighted to see that Apple finally brought this intelligent framing to its most-used app on my iPhone as well.
The iPhone 17 Pro Max has also encouraged me to take significantly more selfies and front-facing videos, largely because of two core attributes: the automatic framing of Center Stage for still images and the addition of ultra-stabilized video recording. Self-portraits often capture spontaneous, intimate energies that formal shots cannot replicate, yet traditionally switching to landscape mode could disrupt those fleeting moments. Apple’s solution preserves that authenticity. With Center Stage enabled for photo mode, the interface autonomously determines the most balanced composition based on how many faces it detects, allowing you to remain engaged in the moment rather than fiddling with angles. The process is intuitive and instantaneous—just ensure that Auto Zoom and Auto Rotate are enabled. Then, the system dynamically adjusts the viewfinder, effortlessly keeping every participant visible and properly framed.
The new hardware and software combination also yields marked accessibility gains. For instance, the ultra-stabilized front camera drastically improves video quality for users with physical conditions that cause involuntary hand movements or tremors. As someone managing a mild but persistent nervous disorder that makes holding the phone steady a challenge, I have often struggled to produce watchable selfie videos. Jittery footage, particularly in dim environments, can appear distracting and unprofessional, discouraging me from recording or sharing personal clips online. The iPhone 17 addresses this problem head-on.
Thanks to its newly engineered stabilization technology, I can now record smooth, cinematic-quality 4K footage at 60 frames per second without needing to switch to a specialized Action mode or flip the phone to its rear cameras. The difference is immediately perceptible—the footage is fluid, markedly less noisy in low-light conditions, and visually polished enough that I finally feel confident sharing it publicly. It’s the first smartphone that genuinely encourages me to capture more of myself spontaneously, without hesitation or additional equipment.
Whether I end up using this newfound capability to post travel vlogs or event updates remains to be seen, but what matters is that I now possess the option. For once, my front-facing videos can match the professional smoothness of clips shot with external stabilizers, without requiring the burden of carrying extra gear like a gimbal. Among all of the new additions to the iPhone 17 lineup, this feature has become my clear favorite. Combined with the newly introduced dual capture functionality—allowing simultaneous recording from both the front and rear cameras—it transforms filming into an engaging, creative experience. Although other smartphone makers have experimented with similar dual-view setups, Apple’s mastery of image stabilization on both lenses gives the iPhone an undeniable edge in overall consistency and visual quality.
I have yet to fully test the capabilities of the new 4x telephoto rear lens to determine just how substantial its leap in optical performance truly is. However, what became obvious from the very first day is that the front camera provides the most delightful and frequently used enhancement on the iPhone 17 Pro. From smart auto-framing on photos and dependable Center Stage tracking in video calls to the balanced, steady clips delivered by the ultra-stabilized selfie camera, this 18-megapixel marvel stands as the most impressive and enjoyable development of the entire series. Most commendably, Apple ensured that this experience is not restricted to the high-end Pro models—the same intelligently adaptive camera system is equally present on the more affordable iPhone 17 and the elegantly lightweight iPhone Air. It’s a thoughtful, democratizing design choice that reinforces Apple’s philosophy of making advanced technology accessible to every user.
Sourse: https://www.zdnet.com/article/not-enough-people-are-talking-about-the-iphone-17s-best-feature-upgrade-in-years/
