Analyst Jeff Pu of GF Securities states in his latest research report that Apple plans to launch a new entry‑level model, the iPhone 17e, in early 2026. The core strategy of this model appears to strike a balance between hardware upgrades and cost control by reusing mature, existing technology to maintain competitiveness in the entry-level market.
In terms of core performance, the report claims that the iPhone 17e will use the same chip as the standard iPhone 17 — the A19 chip. However, taking into account the precedent set by the previous “e” version (the iPhone 16e), which used the A18 chip with fewer GPU cores than the standard iPhone 16, it remains to be seen whether the A19 in the iPhone 17e will follow a similar differentiation. Additionally, memory is expected to remain at 8 GB.
The report points out that, to strictly control costs, the iPhone 17e will make compromises in connectivity. According to a blog post cited by IT Home, the device will not adopt Apple’s latest C1X 5G modem, which debuted in the iPhone Air model, nor will it use the next-generation C2 modem under development. Instead, it will continue to use the C1 modem chip from the iPhone 16e.
Despite the modem not being upgraded, the report highlights one bright spot: Apple may equip the iPhone 17e with a new N1 wireless chip, designed to improve device efficiency and enable faster, more reliable peer-to-peer data transmission.
iPhone 17e rumour: A19, N1 chip, focusing on great battery life
The report believes the main selling point of the iPhone 17e may centre on outstanding battery life. Thanks to the more efficient A19 chip and the potential addition of the N1 wireless chip, its battery performance is expected to surpass the previous generation.
In terms of exterior design and imaging system, the iPhone 17e is expected to carry over the design language of the iPhone 16e and be equipped with a 48-megapixel single rear camera. As for pricing, the analyst believes Apple is highly likely to maintain a US$599 pricing strategy, ensuring its competitive edge in the entry‑level market.
The above content is compiled by ModeZone, a fashion and entertainment magazine.
