Apple’s iPhone 17e Could Be the Next Budget iPhone

Apple seems to be preparing to introduce a new budget-friendly device as part of the iPhone 17 lineup, which is slated to hit the market before the anticipated iPhone 18 unveiling later this year. If the latest leaks bear out, the iPhone 17e could follow a release pattern similar to what we saw with the iPhone 16e.

Production and Launch Timing

Leaks from a Weibo user, Smart Pikachu, hint that Apple is set to commence mass production of the iPhone 17e shortly after the close of CES. With CES set to conclude this Friday, the kickoff for production could be just around the corner, expected within the next week or two.

Although Apple’s budget models don’t usually capture sales figures akin to their flagship siblings, the company typically dedicates between four to six weeks to manufacturing before making the product available. Assuming this timeline holds for the iPhone 17e, which might start production by mid-January, we could see it hit the shelves by late February.

Such a timeline would be strikingly similar to the launch of the iPhone 16e, which was announced in early February last year and started shipping on February 28.

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Rumored Specifications

Recently surfaced details and past rumors suggest that the iPhone 17e might come equipped with the following:

6.1-inch display featuring Dynamic Island
A19 chip
MagSafe wireless charging capability
Slimmer bezels compared to the iPhone 16e

It’s also likely to include Apple’s upgraded Center Stage front camera, though ProMotion support may not be part of the package.

A Strong Entry-Level Option

Apple appears to be embracing a strategy to offer a more affordable choice within the iPhone 17 lineup, aiming to strike a balance between cutting costs and delivering robust features. If the timeline and features pan out as predicted, the iPhone 17e could assume a position much like the iPhone 16e did, focusing on accessibility and functionality.

How do you feel about Apple continuing to expand its budget-friendly iPhone series with the iPhone 17e? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.