(Image source from: Phonearena.com)
Apple is reportedly in the process of developing the new iPhone 17e model, which is anticipated to follow the iPhone 16e that was unveiled recently, as per information from a source. Following the retirement of the iPhone SE (2022), the iPhone 16e has become the entry-level option within the company's offerings. Although our review of the iPhone 16e revealed it might not have completely met expectations, recent data shows it has surpassed the sales figures of the iPhone SE (2022) since its release. Meanwhile, information regarding the rumored iPhone 17e is emerging online, with the latest insights hinting at a potential launch as soon as next year. A post on Weibo by the source Fixed Focus Digital (translated from Chinese) indicates that Apple plans to institute an annual launch timetable for its new ‘e’ series models. This post asserts that trial production for the iPhone 17e is currently part of Apple’s roadmap.
The source has also mentioned that the transformation of the production lines for the iPhone 16e is already in progress. Furthermore, the information reveals that the iPhone 17e will debut next year as Apple's second entry-level phone that does not feature the SE designation. Presently, the iPhone 16e is priced at Rs. 59,900 in India and is offered in two color variants. By altering the naming strategy for its latest smartphone and eliminating the SE lineup with the release of the iPhone SE (2022), Apple appears to be paving the way for speculation about an annual launch cycle connected to the iPhone 17e.
The iPhone 16e marks the inaugural model to include Apple’s new C1 modem. Unlike its predecessor SE models, the iPhone 16e is powered by the A18 SoC, which is also found in the most recent iPhone 16 devices. In our review, we noted that this device is positioned to be more future-ready compared to older iPhone models still available in India, such as the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus, which start at Rs. 69,900 and 79,900, respectively. While the latter two models offer additional features like Dynamic Island, MagSafe compatibility, and faster charging, they do not support the Apple Intelligence capabilities.
