The launch of Apple’s iPhone 17 today ignited a nationwide frenzy, with thousands of eager buyers forming sprawling queues outside Apple stores and authorized resellers in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru from the pre-dawn hours.

The latest flagship, unveiled alongside the iPhone 17 Pro Max, AirPods 3, Watch Series 11, Watch SE3, and Watch Ultra 3 on September 9, has captivated tech enthusiasts with its sleek aluminum design, largest-ever battery, and a striking “full-width camera plateau.” Priced from Rs 83,000, the iPhone 17’s standout cosmic orange variant—informally dubbed “saffron” by some—emerged as a cultural and stylistic phenomenon.

In Delhi, a young Muslim buyer from Sangam Vihar became a viral sensation after proudly showcasing his cosmic orange iPhone 17. “This year, the saffron-coloured phone is going to sell more, and you know why. I am a Muslim, and I love this colour,” he told PTI, his enthusiasm captured in a widely shared video. Having queued since early morning, he added, “It feels like I have already won something.” His sentiment reflects the iPhone’s allure as more than a gadget—a symbol of status, technology, and personal expression.

The fervor was palpable nationwide, mirroring the global spectacle that defines Apple launches. In Bengaluru, Gauri Shankar, a seasoned iPhone buyer, described his first Apple Store experience as exhilarating. “I’ve been buying iPhones for years, but this was special. I’m already waiting for the iPhone 18,” he said, standing among hundreds outside a store.

However, the excitement was marred by logistical challenges in some locations. In Mumbai, Mohan Yadav, who traveled from Ahmedabad and joined the queue at 5 a.m., criticized the lack of crowd control. “People are breaking lines, and security isn’t taking responsibility. Those of us waiting patiently lose our chance,” he told ANI, highlighting chaotic scenes at store entrances.

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The iPhone 17’s appeal lies in its cutting-edge features and bold aesthetic choices, with the cosmic orange variant stealing the spotlight. As buyers across India braved long waits and occasional disorder, the launch underscored Apple’s enduring grip on the nation’s tech culture, blending innovation with a dash of vibrant individuality.

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