Tech Desk 
Jun 02, 2025
Apple seems to be planning an iPhone 17e launch in 2026, continuing its new ‘e’ series, which started earlier this year with the iPhone 16e.
The latest launched iPhone 16e offers strong performance in a simpler package, replacing the older iPhone SE line.
However, reports suggest Apple might make the ‘e’ iPhone a regular part of its main lineup, with yearly updates. According to a leak shared by Instant Digital, the setup of a production line for the iPhone 17e has already begun. Trial production is said to be near, which strongly hints that the next model is in the works.
It’s still unclear what changes the iPhone 17e will bring, but tech watchers believe it could feature Apple’s new A19 chip, the same one expected in the iPhone 17 series.
Some also hope it will adopt the Dynamic Island, a feature that brings more interactive alerts and controls to the screen. While it’s just a guess, there’s talk it might also debut a new Apple C2 modem for better connectivity.
Trusted analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has also predicted that the iPhone 17e will launch in the first half of 2026, which adds more weight to the yearly refresh rumors.
Looking ahead, The Information reported Apple’s long-term strategy may include launching regular budget iPhones in spring, unlike the older SE models which had long gaps between releases.
