Apple is gearing up for the iPhone 17 launch, while leaks suggest a budget-friendly iPhone 17e will debut with flagship-like features.
Rumors suggest Apple’s iPhone 17e could arrive in 2026, offering A19 chip power and affordability for wider accessibility.
iPhone 17e leaks reveal design tweaks, performance upgrades, and pricing strategy to make Apple’s ecosystem more budget-inclusive globally.
Apple is set to launch its iPhone 17 lineup. Despite no concrete information having surfaced about this launch, rumors indicate the annual launch event will be held on September 9, most likely at its headquarters in Cupertino. Though the series is yet to launch, rumors hint that the tech giant is already developing iPhone 17e, aiming for a 2026 launch.
The ‘e’ series has attracted enough traction as a budget-friendly alternative. After the success of iPhone 16e, it’s not surprising that Apple again focuses on a mid-tier model with compelling features.
However, no official news about this development has yet been stated, but the insider leaks shed light on the expected specifications, display, and design, hinting at Apple’s broader strategy.
Currently, technology enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the release of the iPhone 17 models. However, industry insiders are buzzing over another upcoming model that, according to them, is in development.
According to leaks and rumors, Apple is targeting the launch of iPhone 17e in spring 2026. The company will probably launch it as early as February 2026 or in the middle of the year. Some sources, however, contradict this iPhone 17e launch date and predict a slightly delayed one in 2027.
According to leaks, 17e is expected to come with an A19 chip. This next-gen chip is also expected to power the standard iPhone 17 models, offering a significant boost over the previous A18 chip featured in the 16e. Some reports also indicate that the tech behemoth may integrate the C2 5G modem. However, all these are speculations.
Speculations about iPhone 17e have been circulating for a long time, but a recent post on the Chinese platform Weibo has further fueled this speculation. As per the leaked information, users can expect a major design revamp in the upcoming 17e, and like iPhone 16e mirrors iPhone 14, the upcoming one will resemble iPhone 15.
If it comes true, the model will feature a single 48 MP rear camera, a traditional Face ID, and notably no Dynamic Island. This will be a departure from the design that flagship models generally feature.
The display of the model will likely maintain the 6.1-inch OLED panel. However, different leaks suggest different refresh rates ranging from a standard 60 Hz to a smoother 120 Hz.
iPhone 17e specifications leak on Weibo further suggest, “We've gotten some supply chain information on 17e, which has a 6.1" OLED display, likely the same 60Hz low-power display as iPhone 16, along with the same Smart Island design. It’s powered by the A19 platform, and has a 12MP front camera with 3D facial recognition and a 48MP rear camera.”
The additional specifications should include 8 GB RAM and 128 GB base storage. For Indian customers, this model will arrive at nearly Rs. 69,900, with 5G connectivity and other modern supports.
Also Read: iPhone 17 Air Might Lack These Key Features: Is it Worth Buying?
iPhone 17e leaks suggest a significant shift in Apple's strategy to make iPhones more accessible, aiming to expand the consumer base worldwide. The model will expectably balance performance, affordability, and brand strategy to become a valued choice.
iPhone 17e Price in India is expected to be competitive, making it an attractive option for premium smartphone buyers. By equipping the A19 chip, this device closes the performance gap, allowing consumers to enjoy nearly flagship speed and features at an affordable price.
However, the omission of Dynamic Island and the retention of a notch allow users to differentiate between product quality and ensure Pro models still hold the premium positions, maintaining product hierarchy. The launch date hasn’t yet been revealed, but it mirrors an approach that has been adopted across the industry to cater to budget-buyers.
1. What is the expected release date of iPhone 17e?
Ans: iPhone 17e is widely rumored to launch in early 2026, with multiple sources suggesting a release window of February or March 2026, following the flagship iPhone 17 series that launches in September 2025.
2. What display features will iPhone 17e have?
Ans: Leaks indicate iPhone 17e will feature a 6.1-inch OLED display with a 60Hz refresh rate and will introduce Dynamic Island (a display cutout replacing the notch), mirroring iPhone 15’s design.
3. What are the main design changes in iPhone 17e compared to previous models?
Ans: iPhone 17e is expected to have a major design upgrade, including the adoption of Dynamic Island and possibly a more rounded frame, bringing it closer to the design language of iPhone 15. The exact design specifics remain under wraps, but a "significant design revamp" is anticipated.
4. What are the expected specifications and performance upgrades in the iPhone 17e?
Ans: The device is tipped to come with the new A19 chip, upgraded cameras (48MP rear, 12MP front with 3D facial recognition), and improved battery and charging features, aligning with current flagship trends but at a lower price.
5. What will be the price range and positioning of the iPhone 17e in the Apple lineup?
Ans: iPhone 17e is anticipated to be the most affordable entry in the iPhone 17 series, targeting budget-conscious buyers who want Apple performance and features without the flagship price tag. Price leaks suggest it will be significantly more affordable than the flagship models, continuing Apple’s trend of yearly ‘e’ models.