Apple's Next Budget iPhone Could Launch This Month: All the Rumours
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Apple's next affordable iPhone, the iPhone 17e, might debut this month, bringing long-awaited upgrades like MagSafe wireless charging and a potential selfie camera enhancement. According to leaks, this device could significantly narrow the gap between budget and premium models, offering features previously reserved for higher-end iPhones.
iPhone 17e Release Date: When Could the Phone Launch?
Apple introduced the iPhone 16e last February, and the iPhone 17e is expected to follow a similar timeline. Notorious Apple insider Mark Gurman stated in his PowerOn newsletter on 8 February that the launch is imminent. While an exact date remains unconfirmed, sources suggest a possible unveiling on Thursday 19 February, though this is met with scepticism due to Apple's historical preference for Monday or Tuesday announcements.
Given Google's anticipated Pixel 10a launch on 18 February, Apple might opt for a later date, potentially between 23 and 25 February. Last year, the iPhone 16e was announced via a press release on a Wednesday, so a similar approach could see the iPhone 17e launch on Wednesday 25 February.
iPhone 17e Price: How Much Could the Smartphone Cost?
Pricing rumours for the iPhone 17e indicate it may start at £599 for the 128GB model, with 256GB at £699 and 512GB at £899, mirroring the iPhone 16e's pricing. Mark Gurman reported this on 8 February, noting that Apple has little incentive to increase prices due to the iPhone 16e's underwhelming sales performance.
iPhone 17e Design and Display
The iPhone 17e is not expected to feature dramatic design changes. Reports from The Elec suggest it will retain a 6.1-inch OLED display with a 60Hz refresh rate, similar to the iPhone 16e and iPhone 14. However, thinner bezels might provide a more modern appearance. Disagreements exist over the front-facing design, with some rumours hinting at a Dynamic Island and others, like Macotakara, claiming Apple will stick with a notch. Minor cosmetic upgrades, such as new colours, are likely.
iPhone 17e Specs and Features
Internal improvements are the focus for the iPhone 17e. It is rumoured to include the A19 chip from the flagship iPhone 17, along with Apple's C1X cellular modem and N1 chip for connectivity. A significant upgrade could be the introduction of MagSafe wireless charging, supporting speeds up to 25W, a leap from the current 7.5W Qi charging in the iPhone 16e.
iPhone 17e Cameras
The camera setup may see limited changes. The rear camera is expected to remain a single 48MP sensor, as per Gurman's reports from September. However, analyst Jeff Pu suggested a potential upgrade to an 18MP front-facing camera with Centre Stage, similar to the iPhone 17, though this rumour lacks widespread corroboration.
For context, the iPhone 16e, currently discounted to £499 on Amazon, offers a 6.1-inch OLED display, A18 chip, and features like Face ID and Apple Intelligence, making it a compelling budget option according to tech critic David Phelan.
