thx for all of the useful replies. i'm mulling it over. i have handled the 17 at the Apple store. i do not, nor anticipate, doing heavy computing work on an iphone. typical wide range of activity, like texting, email, cloud access, music (will miss the built in headphone jack, don't like wireless too much), pics and video, calling. i started out with a 4s, then went with the SE. Actually purchased a "new" SE space grey 128 several months ago. perfect condition, 100% battery. I am a little rough with my phones, and even with a screen saver and had case managed to crack the screen (probably had it in my back pocket with keys or something and sat on it).
i really don't want to spend $500-$800 on a phone. esp. a new one. i tend to buy used cars with enough wear/tear that i'm not troubled by more wear and tear. i felt a mini would keep costs down, and if damaged wouldn't bother me tremendously. i see some used mini's have been upgraded to iOS26, some are on 18. A battery costs $90 at Apple. I'd like to find an excellent 256 gb with box for $200 and have Apple store change the battery. with care, i would probably be good for 2-3 more years. maybe by then Apple will come to it's senses and put out a beautiful small phone.