Historically, buying a non-Pro iPhone meant accepting outdated design or older chips. But this year, Apple is rewriting the script.

According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the iPhone 17e is more than a refresh - it’s the centerpiece of a strategy to make the “everyday iPhone” genuinely powerful and modern.

For the first time, Apple will reportedly equip its entry-level “e” model with the same A19 chip used in the standard iPhone 17. That means no performance lag, no artificial gap between tiers - just flagship speed at a non-flagship price.

Even more notably, the 17e will finally support MagSafe, Apple’s magnetic charging and accessory ecosystem. It’s a seemingly small addition, but one that unlocks a whole world of compatible wallets, car mounts, and battery packs that were previously exclusive to higher-end models.

But the biggest shift might be under the surface.

Apple is expected to debut its own in-house 5G and Wi-Fi chips in the iPhone 17e. By developing its own wireless hardware, the company can cut reliance on third-party suppliers, lower production costs, and - crucially - maintain the same $599 price point as last year’s model.

If true, this would mark a critical step in Apple’s long-term plan for hardware self-sufficiency.

For users, the outcome is even better: more power, more features, and better connectivity - without paying the “Pro” premium.

The iPhone 17e is shaping up to be the best bang-for-buck iPhone Apple has ever made.

Gurman calls it a “$599 beast,” and the numbers support that claim. While the iPhone 16e lacked MagSafe and felt dated out of the box, the 17e is poised to be fully integrated into the Apple ecosystem.

The shift isn’t just technical - it’s cultural. The “e” line, introduced just a year ago, has already become a favorite for families, businesses, and first-time iPhone buyers. With this new generation, Apple is clearly acknowledging that these users deserve more.

Performance-wise, the A19 chip ensures smooth AI processing and years of software updates. Compared to rivals like the upcoming Pixel 10a, which is expected to deliver modest improvements, the iPhone 17e is a major leap forward.

At $599, it’s an obvious choice for anyone reluctant to spend $1,000 on a Pro model.

In short: no flashy gimmicks, just the essentials done right - fast processor, solid battery, modern charging, and long-term support.

For many, MagSafe alone will be a game-changer, bringing convenience and compatibility without an extra dollar spent.

If Apple delivers everything rumored, the iPhone 17e won’t just be “the affordable one” - it might be the smartest iPhone to buy in 2026.

Hai Phong