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Apple's 2025 iPhone launch has everyone talking, and it's easy to see why! The iPhone 17 Pro Max and the sleek iPhone Air bring faster performance, sharper cameras, and longer battery life than ever before. Whether you're a photography lover, a gamer, or just love having the latest tech, these phones are designed to impress. Pre-ordering early is key to getting your hands on one as soon as they're released, so you don't miss out or face long waits. Here's what you need to know to secure your new iPhone without any hassle.

UK Pre-Orders: How to Get Your iPhone Quickly

Pre-orders in the UK start on Friday, 12/09/2025, at 13:00 BST, with delivery and in-store availability from Friday, 19/09/2025.

  • Apple UK: Pre-order the iPhone 17 Pro Max Apple UK iPhone 17 Pro Max and the iPhone Air Apple UK iPhone Air. SIM-free devices and monthly finance plans start from £41.62 ($50) over 24 months.
  • Carriers:
    • EE: Pay-monthly plans start at £44 ($53).
    • O2: Trade-in deals can save up to £300 ($360).
    • Vodafone: Flexible 24-month payment plans available Vodafone iPhone 17 Pro Max.
  • Retailers:
    • Currys: SIM-free and contract options with next-day delivery Currys iPhone 17 Pro Max.
    • Very: Monthly plans from £35 ($42) help spread costs.

Acting early is crucial, as initial stock frequently sells out within hours.

US Pre-Orders: Beat the Rush

In the US, pre-orders open Friday, 12/09/2025, at 05:00 PDT / 08:00 EDT, with general availability from 19/09/2025.

  • Apple US: Order the iPhone 17 Pro Max Apple US iPhone 17 Pro Max and the iPhone Air Apple US iPhone Air. Monthly financing starts at $50 (£41.62) over 24 months.
  • Carriers:
    • AT&T: Trade-ins up to $400 (£333).
    • Verizon: Instant shipping for pre-orders Verizon iPhone 17 Pro Max.
    • T-Mobile: Flexible 24-month payment plans T-Mobile iPhone 17 Pro Max.
  • Retailers:
    • Best Buy: Stocks SIM-free and carrier-specific models Best Buy iPhone 17 Pro Max.
    • Walmart: Delivery and pick-up options Walmart iPhone 17 Pro Max.

Ordering early guarantees availability and reduces the risk of backorders.

iPhone 17 Pro Max vs iPhone Air: Which One Fits Your Life?

iPhone 17 Pro Max:

  • 6.9-inch ProMotion display, 120Hz refresh rate
  • A19 Pro chip
  • Triple 48MP camera system with 8x optical zoom
  • Battery: up to 39 hours video playback
  • Storage: 128GB – 2TB
  • Starting at £999 ($1,199)

iPhone Air:

  • Ultra-thin 5.6mm titanium body
  • 6.5-inch ProMotion display
  • A19 Pro chip
  • Single 48MP camera
  • Battery: up to 27 hours video playback
  • Storage: 128GB – 1TB
  • Starting at £829 ($999)

Apple reports the Pro Max's 39-hour battery is 45% longer than the Air's 27 hours, making it ideal for heavy users, gamers, and photographers.

Pre-Order Tips: Make the Process Smooth

  • Prepare Your Apple ID: Pre-fill payment and shipping details to save time.
  • Decide on Storage: 2TB on the Pro Max suits heavy media users; 1TB on the Air works for casual users.
  • Check Network Compatibility: Ensure your iPhone works with your carrier.
  • Sign Up for Stock Alerts: Retailers often notify customers when stock is available.

Planning ahead and selecting a trusted retailer or carrier ensures you can enjoy your new iPhone without delays or the stress of launch-day queues.

Pre-ordering the iPhone 17 Pro Max or iPhone Air in the UK or US guarantees access to Apple's latest technology on release day. With multiple carriers, retailers, and flexible financing options, buyers can find a solution that suits their budget and lifestyle.