Apple today announced the iPhone 17e, the latest entry-level addition to its iPhone lineup, via a press release. The device joins the recently refreshed iPad Air powered by the M4 chip in Apple’s early 2026 product updates.
The iPhone 17e brings several upgrades over its predecessor, the iPhone 16e, while maintaining a focus on affordability.
It now includes MagSafe support — finally added to the “e” iPhone this year, enabling sturdier wireless charging and compatibility with a wide range of MagSafe accessories.
It is also now doubled base storage — now starting at 256GB (up from 128GB on the iPhone 16e), with options extending to 512GB. It is now equipped with an A19 chip — the same generation as the one powering the standard iPhone 17, though in a slightly binned version for the e model, and featuring the latest Ceramic Shield 2 front cover, which offers 3x better scratch resistance than the previous generation and reduced glare. The display remains a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR panel with the traditional notch design carried over from earlier models like the iPhone 13 series — a common compromise in Apple’s budget lineup to keep costs down.
Other specs include a 48MP Fusion main camera system with optical-quality 2x telephoto capabilities (unfortunately, no .5x option for obvious reasons) and Apple’s C1X modem for faster cellular performance.
In the Philippines, the iPhone 17e starts at ₱44,990 for the 256GB model (compared to ₱39,990 for the iPhone 16e), reflecting the added storage and features. The 512GB variant is priced at ₱59,990. Available colors include Soft Pink, Black, and White.
No details on local availability or launch timing in the Philippines have been confirmed yet, though pre-orders in other markets begin soon, with general availability expected in mid-March.
The iPhone 17e positions itself as a compelling value option for users aimed for switchers from Android to iOS rather than who are seeking for upgrades, and those who want premium touches like MagSafe without stepping up to higher-tier models. | by Jay-Ar Grate
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