Apple is rumored to have one more iPhone 17 model launching soon in early 2026: the iPhone 17e, which will offer an iPhone 17-like experience at a lower price. Here are three new rumored features that will give it an edge over its predecessor, the iPhone 16e.
#1: A19 chip
One of the best ways to future-proof your iPhone is to buy a model with the latest Apple silicon.
The iPhone 17e fits that bill, as it’s expected to feature Apple’s latest-generation A19 chip.
A19 is a modest improvement over A18 in CPU performance, but where it especially shines is the GPU—particularly for tasks like AI and gaming.
Apple’s flagship iPhone 17 packs the same A19 chip, but you’ll be able to get it at a lower price with the 17e.
#2: Dynamic Island
Last year the iPhone 16e debuted with a design reminiscent of the iPhone 14—including the display notch.
But rumors indicate the new iPhone 17e will transition away from the notch to a Dynamic Island instead.
The Dynamic Island is a smaller cutout than the notch, but it also comes with excellent software features like Live Activities support.
Apple has long made the Dynamic Island standard across its lineup, with iPhone 16e the lone exception. I’m glad it will soon be available on every new iPhone model.
#3: Center Stage front camera
One of the tentpole additions of the iPhone 17 line was a brand new, 18MP Center Stage front camera.
The new camera enables you to take group selfies while holding your iPhone vertically, with the camera auto-adjusting to frame everyone perfectly.
Analyst Jeff Pu recently published a research note saying the iPhone 17e will get this upgraded camera too.
The new front camera is a significant improvement from the iPhone 16e, so it’s great to see Apple bring it to the budget model already.
Are you interested in buying the iPhone 17e? Which features are most important to you? Let us know in the comments.
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