iPhone 17e leaks reveal design and hardware upgrades

Renders of the iPhone 17e have surfaced online, potentially disrupting plans for those eyeing a Pixel 10a pre-order. Positioned as a more affordable entry point into the iOS ecosystem, Apple's upcoming model appears set for notable design and hardware upgrades based on leaks. With the Pixel 10a slated for a February 18th unveiling, Apple seems poised to offer a compelling response in the mid-range segment.

Visually, the biggest change involves ditching the classic notch for a Dynamic Island, giving the iPhone 17e a more contemporary look. However, the bezels around the screen are expected to remain fairly noticeable. The cutout will house a new 18-megapixel front camera with Centre Stage support, a feature that debuted in higher-end iPhone 17 models. For the younger audience typically targeted by more affordable iPhones, this could be a significant selling point.

That said, the display will reportedly stay at 6.1 inches with a 60Hz refresh rate—a specification likely to draw criticism when compared to rivals. The main camera is tipped to retain a 48-megapixel resolution, though image quality should see improvements thanks to a more powerful processor. The smartphone is expected to feature an 'optimized' version of the Apple A19 chip, 8GB of RAM to support Apple Intelligence functions, a C1X modem, and a battery capacity of around 4,000 mAh.

Key additions also include MagSafe support, broadening access to Apple's magnetic accessory ecosystem. Rumors suggest a starting price of $599 for the 128GB version, which is roughly $100 more than the anticipated cost of the Pixel 10a. Nevertheless, with its more powerful chipset and refreshed design, the iPhone 17e could emerge as a serious contender in its class.