Apple is expected to launch the iPhone 17e in February 2026, continuing the annual release cycle introduced with the iPhone 16e. The iPhone 16e, launched recently, resembles the iPhone 14 in design but features the A18 chip and Apple Intelligence integration. It is positioned as a more affordable option within the iPhone 16 lineup, replacing the discontinued iPhone SE.
Annual Release Cycle for the "e" Series
Reports from CIRP suggest that the iPhone 17e could follow the same pattern, arriving in February 2026. Apple’s “e” series could become a regular addition to its lineup, similar to Google's Pixel "A" series, which launches months after the main flagship models.
Also Read, What Does the ‘e’ in iPhone 16e Mean?
iPhone 17e: Expected Features and Pricing
While details about the iPhone 17e remain speculative, it is expected to share key hardware elements with the iPhone 17. The iPhone 16e, priced at â‚ą59,900 for the base model, offers many features of the standard iPhone 16 at a lower price. Apple is likely to maintain a similar pricing strategy for the iPhone 17e.
Apple’s Shift from iPhone SE to "e" Series
Apple discontinued the iPhone SE due to lower sales, as it accounted for only 5% of total iPhone sales in 2024. The new "e" series is designed to attract budget-conscious customers while offering modern hardware, much like the iPhone 5c did in 2013. With this shift, Apple aims to strengthen its position in the mid-range smartphone market.