The iPhone 17 series is getting a new budget option sooner than expected. According to reports from Macwelt and Mac Otakara, the iPhone 17e could arrive as early as February 19. This date aligns with Apple's pattern from last year when the iPhone 16e dropped in February.
Industry sources claim Apple will unveil the device through a press release rather than a full event. This mirrors how the company handled the iPhone 16e announcement. The move makes sense for budget models that don't carry the same fanfare as flagship releases.
Three Key Upgrades
The iPhone 17e reportedly brings three notable improvements over its predecessor. First, MagSafe makes its return with support for 25W wireless charging. The previous iPhone 16e notably skipped MagSafe entirely, forcing users to rely on slower Qi charging or cables.
Second, the phone will pack the A19 chip. This represents a step up from the A18 found in the iPhone 16e. The A19 should deliver better performance and efficiency for daily tasks and light gaming.
Third, Apple is reportedly including its second-generation C1X modem alongside the N1 wireless network chip. This in-house modem setup could improve connectivity and battery life compared to previous Qualcomm-based solutions.
Design Stays Familiar
Don't expect radical design changes. The iPhone 17e will reportedly stick with a look similar to the iPhone 16e. That means an aluminum frame and a familiar overall shape.
Perhaps more surprising is what won't change. The device is said to keep the notch instead of adopting the Dynamic Island. Earlier rumors suggested Apple might bring the pill-shaped cutout to its budget line, but that doesn't appear to be happening this year.
iPad 12 Gets Different Chip
The same reports also touched on Apple's upcoming tablet plans. The iPad 12 will reportedly use the A18 chip rather than the A19 previously rumored. This positions it as a modest upgrade over current entry-level iPad models while keeping costs down.
The iPhone 17e is shaping up to be a conservative but practical update. It keeps what worked in the iPhone 16e while adding features users actually requested. MagSupport alone could sway buyers who skipped last year's model.
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