iPhone 17e: 6 Upgrades Apple may bring to its next mid-range iPhone

iPhone 17e is expected to launch soon, with reports suggesting design changes, charging upgrades, improved performance, and camera updates.

Apple is preparing to expand its mid-range iPhone lineup with the expected launch of the iPhone 17e, which will replace the iPhone 16e. Reports suggest the phone could arrive in February or March. While Apple may not alter the overall approach for this model, several changes are now being discussed by industry watchers and tipsters.

The iPhone 17e is expected to be launched soon, with changes to the design, camera and features. (HT)

By MD Ijaj Khan

Ijaj Khan is a technology journalist and Senior Content Producer at Hindustan Times, with over three years of experience covering the consumer technology industry. His work spans smartphones, laptops, wearables, gaming, appliances and AI - from hands-on reviews, comparison and buying guides to breaking news and in-depth features that help readers cut through the noise and make informed decisions. Before joining HT Tech, he worked with Jagran New Media, where he sharpened his instincts for fast-paced digital reporting. He holds a Post Graduate Diploma in English Journalism and Mass Communication from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), Delhi. Whether he's testing the latest flagship smartphone, tracking a major AI announcement, or putting a gaming laptop through its paces, Ijaj approaches every story with the same goal - making technology feel relevant and easy to understand for everyday users, not just enthusiasts. When he's not in front of a screen for work, he's usually travelling to a new city, hunting for great food, or keeping tabs on what's next in tech before everyone else catches on.

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Dynamic Island may replace the notch

The iPhone 17e is expected to bring a visible design update. Unlike the iPhone 16e, which used the traditional notch, the new model may adopt the Dynamic Island layout for Face ID sensors and the front camera. Some reports disagree on this change, but several sources point toward Apple moving ahead with the newer cutout style. The display size is likely to remain at 6.1 inches with an OLED panel, similar to the iPhone 15 design. The refresh rate is expected to stay at 60Hz.

A19 chip under the hood

Leaks suggest the iPhone 17e may run on the A19 chip, the same processor expected in the standard iPhone 17. A known tipster has indicated that Apple could avoid limiting performance this time. The iPhone 16e used a version of its flagship chip with reduced graphics power, but the next model may receive a more complete version.

MagSafe support expected

One of the main complaints about the iPhone 16e was the absence of MagSafe. Apple may address this by adding magnetic support and wireless charging through MagSafe accessories. Reports suggest wireless charging speeds could rise to 20W or 25W, compared to the 7.5W limit on the previous model.

Front camera upgrade

The iPhone 17e may feature an 18MP front camera, replacing the 12MP unit used earlier. The camera is also expected to support Center Stage, which adjusts framing during video calls and group shots. This feature has already appeared on higher-end models.

Apple's modem is likely to improve efficiency

Apple may equip the iPhone 17e with its in-house C1X modem, though some reports mention the older C1 as a possibility. The C1X modem reportedly offers faster data speeds and lower power use. However, it may still lack 5G mmWave support.

Price and storage to stay unchanged

The iPhone 17e is expected to start at $599, matching the launch price of the iPhone 16e. Storage options may remain the same, with 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB variants likely to be offered.