According to a new consumer report, Apple is likely to launch the iPhone 17e next year, expected in February.
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| Apple may be preparing the next low-cost iPhone model |
References to the iPhone 17e have appeared in the Chinese supply chain, matching a claim from a reputable source. This suggests that Apple is preparing its next low-cost iPhone model, continuing the "e" launch strategy that the company just started with the iPhone 16e.
According to a new report from Consumer Intelligence Research Partners (CIRP), the iPhone 16e is just the start of an annual cycle of more affordable “e” versions. Apple is expected to continue this trend and launch the iPhone 17e in February 2026, about a year after the iPhone 16e is announced.
“ It appears that the ‘e’ models will become part of Apple’s long-term strategy,” the report states. “After the standard iPhone 17 models launch this September, we expect Apple to announce the iPhone 17e at this time next year. This is similar to how Google introduces ‘a’ models in the Pixel line, a few months after the flagship and Pro versions launch each spring .”
With this strategy, Apple can expand its customer base, providing more options for users who want to own a new iPhone at a more reasonable price. Maintaining the "e" product line will help the company compete better in the mid-range smartphone market.
A new source has further reinforced the information about the iPhone 17e, when Fixed Focus Digital on WeChat claimed to have discovered a "new project codename" in Apple's supply chain. According to this source, this is most likely the iPhone 17e model that Apple is expected to launch next year.
It's worth noting that Fixed Focus Digital was the first source to reveal the iPhone 16e back in December last year. At that time, most of the tech world still believed that Apple would continue to maintain the iPhone SE line instead of expanding to a new segment like the iPhone "e".
Last week, MacRumors also speculated that the iPhone 17e could be announced as early as 2026, specifically around February. This prediction matches the iPhone 16e's launch schedule, further strengthening the possibility that Apple will maintain this new product line on an annual cycle.
Releasing a lower-cost iPhone “e” mid-cycle could be a strategy for Apple to refresh its product portfolio and attract more attention from users. Instead of just releasing a standard iPhone version with a new color, Apple could leverage the iPhone “e” line to stimulate demand and compete better in the market.
In addition, launching the iPhone "e" on a fixed cycle also makes it easier for users to plan if they want to own a cheaper device, instead of having to wait uncertainly like with the previous iPhone SE line.
However, all of this will only really matter if the iPhone 16e sells well. If sales don't meet expectations, Apple could kill the "e" line, just like it did with the iPhone "mini." Rumors have even suggested that Apple is considering dropping the "Plus" version from the upcoming iPhone 17 lineup.
Therefore, the sales of the iPhone 16e in the coming time will be the most important factor in determining whether the iPhone "e" line becomes part of Apple's long-term strategy.
The iPhone 16e model is equipped with a 6.1-inch OLED screen with a familiar "rabbit ear" design, integrated Face ID and a powerful A18 chip. The device supports Apple Intelligence, uses a USB-C port, has an Action button and has a single 48MP camera with 2x optical zoom.
Notably, the iPhone 16e is Apple's first device equipped with the company's self-developed 5G C1 modem, promising to bring more optimal connectivity. This is also an important step in the strategy to reduce dependence on external component suppliers.
As planned, the iPhone 16e will officially be on shelves on Friday, February 28. Users can buy directly at Apple stores or receive the device as soon as it is delivered to customers who have pre-ordered.
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