Apple's budget-friendly iPhone lineup is poised for a significant refinement with the upcoming iPhone 17e. Following the release of the iPhone 16e earlier in 2025, which brought features like an OLED display and Face ID to the entry-level segment, attention now turns to its successor. New reports suggest Apple is set to address one of the most notable omissions from the 16e, potentially making the next model a more complete package for cost-conscious consumers seeking the core Apple experience.
The MagSafe Upgrade
According to a report from The Information, the iPhone 17e is expected to finally integrate Apple's MagSafe magnetic charging system. This addresses a key point of feedback from users of the current iPhone 16e, which supports standard Qi wireless charging but lacks the magnetic alignment ring. The absence of MagSafe meant users could not guarantee perfect placement on charging pads and were incompatible with the wide ecosystem of MagSafe accessories, from wallets to car mounts. The inclusion of MagSafe in the 17e would not only simplify wireless charging but also unlock faster, more efficient power delivery compared to basic Qi, bringing the budget model in line with Apple's premium offerings.
Rumored iPhone 17e Specifications vs. iPhone 16e:
| Feature | iPhone 16e (Released Feb 2025) | iPhone 17e (Rumored for Spring 2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Wireless Charging | Qi standard (No MagSafe) | MagSafe magnetic charging |
| Processor | A-series chip (model unspecified in source) | Apple A19 chip |
| Front Display Design | Notch | Dynamic Island |
| 5G Modem | Apple C1 chip | Apple C1X chip (2x speed, 30% lower power) |
| Front Camera | Standard resolution | 18MP (square sensor from iPhone 17 series) |
| Screen Bezels | Standard | Narrower |
| Wi-Fi/Bluetooth | Standard | No N1 chip (likely no Wi-Fi 7/Bluetooth 6/Thread) |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | Expected to remain 60Hz |
Performance and Display Enhancements
Beyond charging, the iPhone 17e is rumored to receive substantial internal upgrades. The most significant is the anticipated inclusion of Apple's next-generation A19 processor, which would match the chip expected in the standard iPhone 17 models. This represents a major leap in performance and efficiency over the chip in the iPhone 16e. On the display front, the familiar "notch" is reportedly being replaced by the Dynamic Island for the first time in Apple's most affordable phone. This interactive area would provide a more modern look and functionality. The device may also feature narrower screen bezels and could inherit the 18-megapixel front-facing camera that debuted on the iPhone 17 series.
Connectivity and Component Details
The report also sheds light on connectivity specifics. The iPhone 17e is tipped to use an upgraded version of Apple's in-house 5G modem, moving from the C1 chip in the iPhone 16e to a new "C1X" variant. This new chip is claimed to offer double the transmission speed with a 30% reduction in power consumption, promising faster data speeds and improved battery life. However, it is suggested that the phone will not include Apple's rumored N1 chip for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, meaning it likely won't support cutting-edge standards like Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, or the Thread networking protocol.
Positioning and Expectations
The iPhone 17e is expected to launch in the spring of 2026, continuing Apple's strategy of offering a more accessible entry point into the iOS ecosystem. By addressing the MagSafe gap and upgrading core components like the processor and display design, Apple appears focused on reducing the perceived compromises in its budget model. While certain advanced connectivity features may be reserved for higher-tier devices, the combination of MagSafe, the A19 chip, and the Dynamic Island could make the iPhone 17e a compelling upgrade over its predecessor, offering a better balance of price and core iPhone functionality.