Apple is set to unveil the iPhone 17e in early 2026, according to Mark Gurman of Bloomberg. This new model will succeed the iPhone 16e, which was launched in February, marking Apple’s transition to an annual update cycle for its entry-level iPhones. Reports indicate that the iPhone 17e will bear a resemblance to the iPhone 16e, yet will be powered by the new A19 processor, aligning it with the current iPhone 17 lineup, which features the A18 chip. The price for the iPhone 16e starts at $599.
Additionally, it is expected that the iPhone 17e will utilize the same OLED panel as its predecessor, aiming to reduce costs by using established production lines. Gurman’s insights support earlier claims by industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who also predicted a launch for the second-generation iPhone 17e in the first half of 2026. Additionally, an April rumor suggested that the device may have been approaching trial production; however, this claim indicated a release date for May 2026. Looking ahead, Kuo has mentioned that a third-generation “e” model would likely debut alongside the standard iPhone 18 in early 2027.
This change would reflect Apple’s strategic shift to releasing standard and “e” models half a year apart, a notable shift from previous release schedules. As Apple shifts towards an annual update strategy, it diverges from earlier practices regarding its “e” series, which lacked a consistent release timeline. This change suggests an intention to streamline and predict the product lineup for consumers, making it easier to anticipate upcoming releases. In addition to the iPhone 17e, various product updates and features are expected across the Apple ecosystem, underscoring the company’s continued innovation in mobile technology.
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