The iPhone 17 series, launched in 2025, brought a new design, slimmer body, and better battery performance. Market feedback has been very positive, and many users appreciated the fresher look and upgraded camera. With the success of the iPhone 17, attention is now turning to Apple’s next affordable model — the iPhone 17e.iPhone 17e Release DatAccording to well-known analyst Jeff Pu, the iPhone 17e is expected to launch in 2026.
Some leaks suggest a more specific window, saying the release may happen between February and May 2026.
If this is accurate, the iPhone 17e may be one of Apple’s first new products in 2026.
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iPhone 17e Rumours: Design, Specs, Colors, and Hardware
1. Design
Rumours claim that the iPhone 17e will remove the notch and switch to the Dynamic Island for the first time in the “e” series. This means the front design will look more modern.
Other design elements may stay the same, including an aluminum body similar to the iPhone 16e.
2. Colors
Since the iPhone “e” series targets the budget market, analysts believe Apple may keep simple color options.
Current rumours point to black and white as the expected iPhone 17e colors.
3. Display
While the standard iPhone 17 finally introduced a high-refresh-rate screen, Apple is not expected to give the iPhone 17e a high-refresh display.
The iPhone 17e will likely stay at 60Hz, keeping costs down.
4. Camera
Rumours say the iPhone 17e will feature an 18MP Center Stage front camera, giving it the same selfie experience as the flagship models.
5. Chipset and Performance
The iPhone 17e is expected to use an A19-based chip, but possibly a slightly downgraded version compared to the standard iPhone 17.
RAM is expected to remain at 8GB.
6. Connectivity
To control costs, the iPhone 17e may continue using the C1 5G modem from the iPhone 16e.
However, analysts also say Apple may add a new N1 wireless chip to improve efficiency and device-to-device transfer speed.
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iPhone 17e Price: How Much Will It Cost?
Experts widely believe Apple will maintain its competitive pricing strategy. Most reports point toward a starting price of $599 in the United States. This allows Apple to keep a strong presence in the entry-level 5G smartphone market.
For comparison, the iPhone 16e also started at $599 for the 128GB model, so it’s reasonable to expect Apple to keep the same pricing tier for the iPhone 17e.
Conclusion
With growing excitement around the iPhone 17e release date, leaked specs, and rumored color options, it’s clear that Apple is preparing to elevate its budget lineup in 2026. The adoption of the Dynamic Island, a powerful A19-based chip, an improved 18MP front camera, and a new wireless N1 chip shows Apple’s willingness to bring meaningful upgrades to its more affordable models—while still keeping the price approachable at around $599.
As more leaks emerge in the coming months, the iPhone 17e is shaping up to be one of the most interesting entry-level iPhones in years. If you’re looking for a modern design with solid performance at a fair price, the iPhone 17e may be worth the wait.
1 comment
Nick
Currently using the IPhone SE 2022 so will now wait for the 17e release as the current 17 is too expensive an upgrade. I was considering the16e but if cost of the 17e remains the same no point in going with the 16e.