Apple has announced the iPhone 17e, a new lower priced model in the iPhone 17 lineup that starts at $599 and brings flagship level performance to a broader audience. The iPhone 17e combines the A19 chip, 256GB of base storage, MagSafe support, and Apple Intelligence features in a package designed to attract both upgraders and switchers.
With the iPhone 17e, Apple is strengthening its position in the mid tier smartphone segment. By keeping the same $599 starting price while doubling the base storage and adding next generation silicon, the company is making its most affordable iPhone 17 model significantly more competitive in 2026.
“iPhone 17e combines powerful performance and features our users love at an exceptional value, making it a compelling option for customers looking to upgrade to the iPhone 17 family,” said Kaiann Drance, Apple’s vice president of Worldwide iPhone Product Marketing. “We know our customers want a product that will last, and iPhone 17e delivers just that. With A19 for incredible performance, double the entry storage, a smarter camera system, and enhanced durability, iPhone 17e is designed to stay fast, secure, and valuable for years to come.”
A19 chip and Apple Intelligence support
The iPhone 17e is powered by the A19 chip built on advanced 3 nanometer technology. It features a 6 core CPU and 4 core GPU, delivering performance that Apple says is up to 2x faster than iPhone 11. A new 16 core Neural Engine is optimized for large generative models, enabling full support for Apple Intelligence in iOS 26.
Users can access features like Live Translation across Messages, Phone, and FaceTime, enhanced visual intelligence on screen, Call Screening for unknown numbers, and smarter filtering in Messages. Bringing Apple Intelligence to a $599 iPhone 17e expands the reach of Apple’s AI platform across its lineup.
256GB base storage and durable design
One of the most notable upgrades is storage. The iPhone 17e now starts at 256GB, which is double the entry capacity of the previous generation at the same price. This gives users more space for 4K videos, high resolution photos, games, and apps without immediately moving to a higher tier configuration.
The device features a 6.1 inch Super Retina XDR display with OLED technology and up to 1200 nits peak HDR brightness. The front is protected by Ceramic Shield 2, offering three times better scratch resistance than before along with reduced glare. It also carries an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance and uses an aerospace grade aluminum enclosure.
MagSafe, faster charging, and all day battery
MagSafe connectivity returns to the more affordable model, allowing the iPhone 17e to work with magnetic chargers, wallets, stands, and cases. Wireless charging now supports up to 15W, compared to 7.5W on its predecessor.
With a 20W adapter or higher, the iPhone 17e can charge up to 50 percent in around 30 minutes over USB C. Battery life is rated at up to 26 hours, supported by the efficiency of the A19 chip and Apple’s latest C1X cellular modem.
48MP camera and improved connectivity
The iPhone 17e features a 48MP Fusion camera that enables optical quality 2x zoom, effectively delivering two focal lengths in one lens. Users can shoot at 24MP by default for balanced file sizes or capture full 48MP images for maximum detail. Portrait mode benefits from an updated image pipeline with improved subject detection and adjustable depth control.
Video recording supports 4K Dolby Vision at up to 60 fps, along with Spatial Audio capture. The new C1X modem delivers up to 2x faster cellular performance compared to the previous generation while improving energy efficiency. Satellite features including Emergency SOS, Messages, Roadside Assistance, and Find My are supported when outside cellular and Wi Fi coverage.
Pricing and availability
The iPhone 17e starts at $599 for the 256GB model, with a 512GB option also available. It comes in black, white, and soft pink. Preorders begin March 4, with availability starting March 11 in more than 70 countries and regions.
