Performance: Apple A19, but slightly scaled down

According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the iPhone 17e will use the same A19 chip found in the standard iPhone 17. However, Apple is expected to throttle the GPU, as it did with the A18 in the iPhone 16e.

This reduced GPU capability will distinguish the 17e from higher-end models while still delivering smooth everyday performance. Importantly, the chip will still include AI and image processing enhancements, as well as power efficiency improvements - key hallmarks of the iPhone 17 series.

Modem: C1 or the faster, more efficient C1X

The iPhone 16e marked Apple’s transition from Qualcomm modems to in-house modem C1. Rumors suggest the 17e could use either the same C1 or upgrade to the new C1X found in the mainline iPhone 17.

Reports indicate that C1X delivers double the data speed and 30% better power efficiency compared to C1. If implemented in the 17e, this would mean significantly improved performance for tasks like FaceTime or HD video streaming.

Display: Dynamic Island makes its way to the budget iPhone

The iPhone 17e is expected to retain a 6.1-inch OLED screen with a 60Hz refresh rate - a noticeable step down from the 120Hz ProMotion displays of higher-end models.

However, a major upgrade lies in the front design. According to sources like Digital Chat Station, Apple is finally removing the notch from the budget line, replacing it with the Dynamic Island - previously exclusive to premium models. This would mark a major leap in visual experience from the 16e.

Camera: Still 48MP, with a significant selfie upgrade

Similar to the iPhone 16e, the iPhone 17e is expected to have a single 48MP rear camera, without telephoto or ultrawide lenses - another intentional move by Apple to segment its product line.

The front camera, however, will likely see a notable upgrade. While the 16e used a 12MP sensor, the iPhone 17 lineup introduces an 18MP front camera with a square sensor, enabling auto-rotation and improved video call performance. The 17e is expected to inherit this feature, enhancing its selfie and video capabilities.

Advanced features like Camera Control or MagSafe may still be omitted to keep the price competitive.

Design: Minimalist and familiar

So far, leaks suggest the 17e will stick to the minimalist design of its predecessor. It will likely come in just two color options - black and white - to minimize production costs.

Externally, the device will retain Apple’s signature flat-edge aluminum frame and glass back, with the only visible change being the adoption of Dynamic Island in place of the notch.

Release date: Spring 2026

If Apple follows the previous timeline, the iPhone 17e will launch in February or March 2026, roughly six months after the main iPhone 17 series. This staggered release helps Apple maintain year-round market presence without overshadowing flagship launches in the fall.

Pricing: Still starts at $599

The iPhone 16e debuted at $599, and insiders expect the 17e to stick with the same pricing.

This price point is designed to attract budget-conscious users while maintaining clear separation from the standard iPhone 17 ($799) and the discounted iPhone 16 ($699 after the 17 launch).

Pricing may vary by region depending on taxes and import duties, but Apple is unlikely to let the 17e surpass the iPhone 17 in cost.

Will iPhone 17e be a breakout hit?

While it may not introduce groundbreaking tech, the iPhone 17e plays a crucial role in Apple’s strategy: sustaining a strong presence in the mid-range market and onboarding new users.

If the rumors are accurate, the 17e will offer a compelling mix of solid performance (A19 chip, possible C1X modem), improved experience (Dynamic Island, upgraded front camera), and accessible pricing.

It’s a proven formula that’s helped Apple grow its ecosystem over time.

Though the iPhone 17 Pro Max and iPhone Air may steal the spotlight at launch, the 17e is poised to become a bestseller over time - especially among users upgrading from older devices or stepping into the Apple ecosystem for the first time.

To summarize: the iPhone 17e is expected to debut in spring 2026 at $599, featuring a 6.1-inch OLED display with Dynamic Island, an A19 chip with reduced GPU, 48MP rear camera, upgraded 18MP selfie camera, and possibly the faster C1X modem. With familiar design and minimal color options, it may not be the flashiest iPhone - but it will likely be the most widely adopted.

Hai Phong