Apple is aiming to maintain its position in the mid-to-high range smartphone market with the upcoming iPhone 17e, slated for release on . This new device, intended to supersede the “SE” naming convention, promises a balance of power and price, launching just a day after Google’s anticipated Pixel 10a announcement.
The competition for the smartphone market share is heating up early this year. According to reports, the launch of the iPhone 17e will be announced via a surprise digital event. Unlike previous budget models, the “17e” will adopt the modern design of the iPhone 15, permanently removing the home button and incorporating the Dynamic Island and a USB-C port across the entire entry-level lineup.
The most notable aspect of this leak concerns the internal specifications, which position the device above expectations for an “economy” model. The iPhone 17e will utilize the same A18 chip found in the current iPhone 16 series, providing full support for Apple Intelligence features. This represents a significant upgrade in processing power for Apple’s more affordable offering.
For the first time in the entry-level range, Apple is expected to move away from LCD panels and offer a 6.1-inch OLED display with more vibrant colors. This shift to OLED technology will improve the viewing experience, offering deeper blacks and a wider color gamut. The device will also inherit the 48MP main sensor from the iPhone 15, enabling high-resolution photos and the latest generation portrait mode capabilities.
Perhaps most significantly, the iPhone 17e is rumored to be the first iPhone to test a 5G modem designed entirely by Apple, reducing reliance on Qualcomm. This in-house modem is advertised as being the most power-efficient modem ever included in an iPhone, and is reportedly twice as fast as the company’s first-generation C1 modem for cellular data. This move towards greater vertical integration allows Apple more control over its supply chain and potentially optimizes performance and power consumption.
The launch date is strategically timed to overshadow Google’s Pixel 10a announcement (), offering a device that promises superior software longevity and access to Apple’s premium ecosystem at an estimated price of around $599. This move simplifies Apple’s product catalog and provides a powerful entry point for users seeking AI capabilities without the cost of the Pro models.
Beyond the core specifications, the iPhone 17e is expected to include MagSafe support, allowing for up to 20W-25W magnetic wireless charging and the attachment of accessories like Apple’s MagSafe Wallet. This feature was absent in the iPhone 16e, representing a notable upgrade for the 17e. The device will also feature thinner bezels, contributing to a more modern aesthetic.
Apple launched the iPhone 16e in February 2025 as a replacement for the iPhone SE, and an update to the “e” series wasn’t expected until early 2026. The iPhone 17e will likely have a single back camera, similar to the iPhone 16e and the iPhone Air, maintaining a focus on cost-effectiveness. Available color options are expected to be limited to black and white.
The inclusion of the A19 chip in the iPhone 17e represents a performance leap over the A18 chip in the iPhone 16e. While details about the A19 chip remain limited, it is expected to offer incremental improvements in processing power and efficiency. The C1X modem, Apple’s second-generation modem, will further enhance connectivity speeds and power efficiency.
While the iPhone 17e is positioned as a budget-friendly option, the inclusion of features like the Dynamic Island, OLED display, and 48MP camera demonstrate Apple’s commitment to delivering a premium experience at a more accessible price point. The device’s overall design and other specifications are expected to be similar to the iPhone 16e, maintaining a consistent user experience across Apple’s product lineup.
The iPhone 17e’s launch strategy reflects Apple’s evolving approach to product releases, with a split-launch strategy where entry-level and base models arrive months after the fall Pro lineup. This allows Apple to maintain consumer interest and market momentum throughout the year, catering to different price segments and user needs.
