Survey: Apple’s iPhone 17 colour choices divide Hong Kong netizens

Apple’s newly launched iPhone 17 has reignited familiar conversations in Hong Kong—balancing widespread admiration for its design aesthetics and upgraded features with hesitation over its design limitations.

Unveiled in September, the iPhone 17 series introduced several notable enhancements, including a 48MP main camera, an 18MP front camera, and a brighter 6.3-inch display featuring ProMotion 120Hz refresh rate technology.

According to media intelligence firm CARMA, the global launch generated 2.4 million online mentions, with 52.7% positive and 9.5% negative sentiment. Notably, over 43% of all iPhone 17-related discussions (possibly a typo for iPhone 16) originated from Asia, making it the most engaged region globally. 

CARMA also found that the Iphone 17 traction exceeded that of iPhone 16, with many netizens significantly discussing the shift to eSIM-only models, including concerns about physical SIM card availability. 

In Hong Kong, the iPhone 17 has sparked over 6,000 mentions, with 58% positive, 36% neutral, and only 6% negative sentiment. The city’s online discourse reflects a unique blend of aesthetic appreciation and regional policy considerations.

Hong Kong consumers are especially focused on design aesthetics, with colour options becoming a hot topic—particularly the divisive “prison orange” shade, which has sparked debate across social platforms.

ESIM functionality also emerges as a key discussion point. Many users link Apple’s eSIM rollout to broader telecom infrastructure developments in China, highlighting the interplay between product features and regional technology policies.

Adding a cultural twist to the product conversation, Korean boy group GOT7's Jackson Wang’s latest music video has drawn attention for showcasing the iPhone 17 Pro in creative and artistic scenarios—offering a glimpse into how Apple’s flagship devices are being woven into pop culture narratives.

Despite the praise, some criticisms have surfaced. A few users expressed frustration over design limitations—such as restrictions on screen protectors or films, which some say hinder customisation.

On the other hand, Japanese netizens showed the strongest excitement towards the new product, with nearly 15x more mentions (343k) than other markets and the highest share of positive posts. The sentiments of the discussions are 69% positive, 27% neutral and 4% negative, according to CARMA. 

Discussions are driven by a strong focus on iPhone 17 and 17 Pro models, pricing and standout features such as the centre frame camera, 8x zoom, A19 Pro chip, and vapour chamber cooling. Accessories, including the US$100 Apple Crossbody Strap and TechWoven Cases, also generated notable excitement.

The transition to eSIM is widely discussed, with major carriers making it easier but MVNO customers expressing concerns. Apple’s AI push and new ecosystem features such as AirPods Pro 3 live translation, Apple Watch SE 3 improvements sparked curiosity, though some posts raise ethical questions.

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