Apple is reportedly in the early development stages of its next entry-level smartphone, the iPhone 17e, which is set to follow the launch of the iPhone 16e. Following the discontinuation of the iPhone SE (2022), the iPhone 16e has become the brand’s new entry-level offering. Despite not having impressed reviewers upon release, it appears that the iPhone 16e has outperformed the iPhone SE (2022) in sales since its introduction. Recent leaks suggest that Apple is planning to unveil the successor, the iPhone 17e, in the coming year.
Information shared in a Weibo post from tipster Fixed Focus Digital indicates that Apple is aiming for an annual release pattern for its ‘e’ series smartphones. The post mentions that trial production for the iPhone 17e is already part of Apple’s plans.
Furthermore, the tipster has revealed that modifications to the production lines for the iPhone 16e are currently underway. The report anticipates that the iPhone 17e will be released next year, marking Apple’s second entry-level model without the SE designation.
The current price of the iPhone 16e in India is set at Rs. 59,900, and the device is available in two color variants. In a shift from its traditional branding, Apple has omitted the SE label in favor of a numbered series, leading to speculation about a possible annual release cycle linked to the upcoming iPhone 17e.
The iPhone 16e stands out as the first model to incorporate Apple’s new C1 modem. Unlike prior SE models, it is powered by the A18 SoC, which is also found in the latest iPhone 16 range. In our evaluation, we noted that the iPhone 16e is relatively future-proof when compared to older models still available in India, such as the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus. These models are priced at Rs. 69,900 and Rs. 79,900 respectively, offering enhanced features such as Dynamic Island, MagSafe support, and faster charging but lacking key Apple Intelligence capabilities.
