Apple’s iPhone 17e Set for Early 2026 Release Maintaining Budget Appeal
Apple is reportedly preparing to launch the iPhone 17e in early 2026, continuing its budget-friendly iPhone lineup introduced with the iPhone 16e earlier this year. The new model aims to provide an affordable alternative within Apple’s smartphone portfolio, catering to consumers seeking cost-effective options.
Design and Display Features of the Upcoming iPhone 17e
According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the iPhone 17e will retain the same design as its predecessor, the iPhone 16e, which features a 6.1-inch OLED panel with a notch accommodating the Face ID camera. Korean outlet The Elec supports this, reporting the device will utilize the same OLED display, likely preserving the notch to distinguish it from the main iPhone 17 series.
Expected Hardware and Performance Specifications for iPhone 17e
The device may be powered by Apple’s upcoming A19 chipset, potentially configured with fewer CPU or GPU cores to maintain its budget positioning. The current iPhone 16e is equipped with a single rear camera and USB-C port, priced at $599; similar modest upgrades are anticipated for the 17e model.
Broader Apple Product Launch Schedule Including iPhone 17e and Other Devices
Beyond the iPhone 17e, Apple’s early 2026 roadmap reportedly includes an entry-level iPad, a new iPad Air, and an external Mac display, signaling a broader refresh across product categories. Meanwhile, the main iPhone 17 series is expected to debut with a new design and introduce an iPhone Air model, marking a significant update in Apple’s smartphone lineup.