Should you buy the iPhone 16 or iPhone 17? How to decide which model to buy

Like clockwork, a new iPhone has made its way through the rumor mill in August, and users are beginning to wonder if they should buy what's currently available or wait until fall to see how things play out.

Based on past trends, there's a good chance Apple will unveil the iPhone 17 series in September. So, should you pick up an iPhone 16 from your local Apple store today or play the long game? 

Also: Best iPhone 2025: I tested the top models and found the best options for you

Having tested every major smartphone release over the past several years and helped numerous family and friends overcome this exact dilemma, here's the decision tree I use that works every single time.

1. Do you need a new phone right now?

Pretty simple, right? If you're currently using a ...