Apple iPhone 17e: affordable smartphone with A19 processor and 256GB storage

Apple has unveiled the iPhone 17e, a more affordable version of its iPhone 17 series. The smartphone features the A19 processor, built on a 3-nanometer process, and a new proprietary C1X modem. Apple claims this modem offers higher data transfer speeds and improved energy efficiency. Pre-orders begin on March 4, with sales starting on March 11. The starting price in the U.S. is $599.

The iPhone 17e comes with a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, boasting a peak HDR brightness of up to 1200 nits. The front panel is protected by second-generation Ceramic Shield glass, which offers enhanced scratch resistance. The aluminum body meets the IP68 standard for dust and water resistance. The device supports MagSafe and wireless charging at up to 15W, as well as wired charging via USB-C.

For photography, it includes a 48-megapixel Fusion camera module that can shoot at 24 or 48 megapixels and supports 2x optical zoom without a separate telephoto lens. The smartphone records 4K video with Dolby Vision at 60 frames per second and supports spatial audio. Updated portrait modes and night photography capabilities are also available.

In a significant upgrade, the minimum storage capacity is now 256GB, which is double that of the previous generation while maintaining the same starting price. The device runs on iOS 26 with new Apple Intelligence features, such as real-time translation and intelligent call and message filtering. Additionally, it supports satellite emergency communication functions in regions where they are available.