In February, Apple phased out the iPhone SE and introduced the iPhone 16e as its new entry-level model. This device boasts a 6.1-inch OLED display, an A18 chip with Apple Intelligence, a 48-megapixel rear camera, an Action button, and a USB-C port. However, it lacks MagSafe wireless charging, a notable limitation.
The upcoming iPhone 17e is set to address this shortcoming by incorporating magnetic wireless charging, suggesting the inclusion of MagSafe technology for faster charging speeds, potentially reaching 20W or 25W. Currently, the iPhone 16e supports only Qi wireless charging, capped at 7.5W, and lacks a magnetic system.
Additionally, the iPhone 17e will feature Apple’s second-generation C1X modem for enhanced cellular connectivity, an upgrade from the first-generation C1 modem found in the iPhone 16e. This modem first appeared in the iPhone Air.
Expected to launch in spring 2026, the iPhone 17e is anticipated to be a gradual improvement over its predecessor. While the iPhone 16e is priced starting at $599 in the United States, the pricing for the iPhone 17e remains uncertain. It is also unclear whether the new model will adopt a pill-shaped Dynamic Island cutout instead of the traditional notch.
