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Apple is reportedly planning a major upgrade for its budget iPhone lineup. The upcoming iPhone 17e, expected in early 2026, could address one of the biggest complaints about the current model.
The iPhone 16e, launched in February as Apple’s most affordable option, skipped MagSafe support. While it includes wireless charging, it lacks the magnetic alignment that other iPhones offer. This omission puzzled many fans, but Apple may be ready to bring the feature back. According to reports, the iPhone 17e will include full MagSafe compatibility, combining convenience with Apple’s signature wireless ecosystem.
Beyond MagSafe, the iPhone 17e is rumored to feature Apple’s second-generation C1X cellular modem, first introduced in the iPhone Air this September. This is an upgrade over the iPhone 16e, which still uses the older C1 modem.
Design-wise, the iPhone 17e is expected to retain the same screen as its predecessor but with thinner bezels for a more modern look. Camera upgrades are also on the horizon, with an 18MP front-facing camera matching the rest of the iPhone 17 series. The rear setup is likely to stay similar, featuring a single 48MP lens.
The iPhone 17e should be powered by the A19 chip, the same processor found in the standard iPhone 17. These improvements suggest Apple is positioning the 17e as a more capable, budget-friendly option for 2026, appealing to users who want high-end features without a premium price tag.
