How to Get iPhone 17, AirPods 3, and Apple Watch

Apple’s newest iPhone 17, AirPods 3, and refreshed Apple Watch lineup are set to move fast. If you want day-one delivery—or a smart deal on last year’s gear—your best shot comes down to timing, pre-approval, and knowing where the real value hides. Here’s a concise, expert playbook to secure what you want without overpaying or getting locked into terms you’ll regret.

Lock In the iPhone 17: Pre-Approval Is Half the Battle

Use the Apple Store app to “favorite” the exact configuration (color, storage, model) and complete pre-approval for the iPhone Upgrade Program or carrier financing ahead of time. When orders open, you’ll check out in seconds instead of minutes—crucial because popular colors and high-capacity Pro models historically sell out first and slip to multi-week lead times. Analysts at Counterpoint Research have documented similar early backlogs during previous iPhone launches.

If you’re going through a carrier, complete eligibility and trade-in estimates before the preorder window starts. Some carriers also offer “early upgrade” verification in-app, which avoids surprise paperwork at checkout. Choose in-store pickup at checkout for better odds; Apple often reserves inventory for retail pickup even when delivery dates slide.

Apple vs. Carriers vs. Retailers: Where the Deals Differ

Buying direct from Apple is the cleanest path to an unlocked phone, AppleCare+, and predictable monthly payments. It’s also the easiest way to pair trade-in value with the iPhone Upgrade Program for annual upgrades.

Carriers tend to advertise the biggest headline discounts, but read the fine print. The largest “$700–$1,000 off” deals typically arrive as bill credits spread across 24–36 months and require premium plans. According to Consumer Intelligence Research Partners, roughly two-thirds of U.S. iPhone purchases flow through carriers, which is why these promos dominate launch season. If you change carriers or lines early, you could forfeit remaining credits—factor that into the total cost of ownership.

Major retailers often layer in gift cards or bundle promotions. Big-box stores sometimes secure extra launch-day inventory, and same-day pickup can beat shipping delays. If a retailer offers a gift card, treat it as a discount only if you’ll actually use it; otherwise, an unlocked Apple purchase may be the better value.

AirPods 3 and Apple Watch: Availability Patterns to Leverage

True-wireless earbuds rarely sell out for long, but specific AirPods 3 bundles and limited-edition cases do. Look for retailer gift-card promos, student discounts, or bundle savings when purchasing with an iPhone—these pop up frequently across launch windows and major sale events. Market trackers at Circana have repeatedly shown that audio accessories see aggressive discounting during promotional periods.

For Apple Watch, certain case sizes, finishes, and band combinations go first. If you’re set on a specific combo or the rugged model, opt for store pickup. If you’re flexible on the band, you’ll expand your options dramatically and often secure earlier delivery. Don’t forget to price AppleCare+; replacing a cracked display out of warranty is rarely cheaper than coverage.

Refurbished and Last-Gen: Smart Ways to Save

Apple Certified Refurbished iPhones, iPads, and Watches come with a full warranty and are fully tested; for iPhone specifically, Apple fits a new battery and outer shell, which makes them a sleeper value. Inventory rotates, so check often. Third-party refurbished programs can be excellent too—just confirm the return window, battery health minimums, and warranty terms before you click buy.

Price intelligence firms like SellCell consistently find that iPhones retain more value than many Android flagships; it’s common to see 60–70% retained after a year, giving you strong trade-in leverage on last-gen models. If you’re budget-minded, a prior-year Pro often packs better cameras and displays than a brand-new non-Pro at the same price.

Trade-In Math: Make the Numbers Work for You

Carrier bill credits look huge, but they lock you into a plan and timeline. An alternative: take a cash trade-in or sell your old device privately, buy the new phone unlocked, then pair it with a lower-cost plan from a reputable MVNO. Over a few years, the savings can beat even the biggest carrier promo. Run both scenarios across the full term to see which wins for your usage.

Before trading in: back up your device, sign out of Apple ID, disable Find My, unpair your Apple Watch, and wipe the phone. Document its condition with photos. Include the original box and accessories when required—some refurbishers pay more for complete kits.

Older Models: Who Should Buy What

If you want the best value per dollar, last year’s Pro usually hits a sweet spot once the new lineup arrives. Shutterbugs and mobile gamers will notice the upgrade tiers most, while casual users can step down one generation without sacrificing core performance or battery life. For wearables, the previous Apple Watch generation typically receives years of software support and often dips well below launch price once new models land.

Your Preorder Checklist

Finalize your configuration in the Apple Store app, complete financing pre-approval, and verify carrier eligibility. Decide on unlocked versus bill-credit deals in advance. Set a pickup location as a backup to delivery. Prep your trade-in. And have a second payment option on standby in case fraud filters flag the first card—a frequent hiccup during high-traffic launches.

Do that, and you’ll beat the rush, avoid the usual traps, and either land the iPhone 17, AirPods 3, and the latest Apple Watch on day one—or score a savvy discount on last year’s standouts.