With the launch window approaching, buzz around Apple’s next entry-level iPhone is picking up pace. Fresh leaks now suggest that the upcoming iPhone 17e will arrive in the coming months with some noticeable upgrades over the current iPhone 16e. Apple’s “e” lineup has typically focused on affordability, but it looks like the new model may take a small step closer to the premium design language of the main iPhone 17 series.
A More Modern Look and Updated Display
According to a report from Chinese outlet MyDrivers, citing social media sources, Apple is planning a big design change this time. The biggest shift is the possible introduction of the Dynamic Island, which would officially mark the end of the notch for the entire family of iPhones. This is a major upgrade for the entry-level model, especially since the iPhone 16e still uses the wider notch design carried over from the iPhone 14.
Even with the updated front cutout, other display specs are expected to stay familiar. The phone will likely keep its 6.1-inch screen and 60Hz refresh rate — the same setup used in the standard iPhone 16. Apple is also expected to stick with a single rear camera, keeping a clear separation from the dual and triple-camera systems on its higher-priced siblings.
Performance and Who It’s Meant For
Inside, the iPhone 17e is rumored to run on Apple’s next-gen A19 chip. Reports say this version of the chip might come with fewer GPU cores than the one used in the flagship models, helping Apple maintain a performance gap between the tiers. According to the leak, the iPhone 17e is designed specifically for users still holding onto older devices, especially those upgrading from the iPhone 11 era.
As for the launch, the iPhone 17e is expected to arrive in the first half of 2026. This would give Apple a budget-friendly release before its big September event, where the rest of the flagship lineup — including the iPhone 17 Pro and the rumored iPhone 17 Air — is likely to be unveiled.
