The iPhone 17e has appeared in a recent leak, suggesting it could arrive sooner than anticipated.
Andy Boxall / Digital Trends
Although Apple’s iPhone 16e is still relatively new, it has already made a strong impression and is regarded as one of the best budget-friendly smartphones. This has sparked curiosity among Apple enthusiasts about whether the 16e will be a standalone model. A reputable leaker suggests that Apple plans to develop the iPhone 17e and is currently working on this new device.
Those speculating about the future of the iPhone 16e are likely not alone. The 16e has taken the place of the iPhone SE, placing it in a unique position within Apple's smartphone lineup. With the clarification that the 16e is part of the iPhone 16 series, many anticipated it would follow a similar yearly release schedule as the premium models. In contrast, the SE had its own update timetable, which was not synchronized with the other iPhones. This raises questions about the status of the iPhone 16e, which is both part of a new generation and a replacement for the SE.
While it's difficult to forecast the final outcome regarding these inquiries, it appears that Apple is developing an iPhone 17e. As is frequently the case, this information comes from leaks, so it's best to view this with cautious optimism.
According to a leak from Fixed Focus Digital on Weibo, reported by 9to5Mac, the leaker previously mentioned in February that the upcoming “e model” is expected to launch alongside the iPhone 17. This claim was based on a new project code they noticed, although the code itself remains undisclosed.
Recently, the tipster provided further intriguing insights, stating: “The setup of the 17e production line is being planned. […] There will be a 17e next year, and it is now nearing the trial production phase.” This refers to a limited production run that allows Apple and its collaborators to identify potential issues and make improvements before larger-scale production kicks off.
A release next year would align with a yearly launch schedule for the 17e, mirroring the broader iPhone line-up — albeit with a slight delay. However, it's challenging to predict whether Apple will consistently release a new budget-friendly phone annually. Much will hinge on sales performance, meaning even if the iPhone 17e is released, future models such as the 18e may not be guaranteed.
Monica is a computing writer at Digital Trends, specializing in PC hardware. Since joining the team in 2021, she has authored…
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The iPhone 17e has appeared in a recent leak, suggesting it could arrive sooner than anticipated.
A recent leak suggests that the iPhone 16e could have a successor, and possibly sooner than anticipated.