February 7, 2026, 6:49 am | Read time: 2 minutes
The launch of the iPhone 17e is imminent, and industry insiders are still divided on how extensive the changes to the new budget device will be. Recently, sources within Apple’s supply chain suggested that a new, fresher design is planned. However, a current report contradicts this assessment.
Old Case, Old Notch
In January, information from the well-known leaker Digital Chat Station on Weibo indicated that the iPhone 17e would receive a fundamentally new design. While the iPhone 16e still had a display with the classic notch like the iPhone 13/14, its successor might finally get Dynamic Island. The more modern look would align the device with the current iPhone 17 series.
Now, “Mac Otakara,” a Japanese Apple blog with strong connections to the Californian supply chain, has contradicted this portrayal. According to them, the iPhone 17e will adopt the case and basic structure of the iPhone 16e. Significant changes to the external appearance are not expected—including the notch. Dynamic Island would thus remain a premium feature reserved for the iPhone 17, 17 Pro, and Air.
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New Chip and Apple Modem
In terms of hardware, “Mac Otakara” agrees with earlier leaks. The iPhone 17e is expected to feature the same A19 chip used in the iPhone 17 series. It will also include the C1X modem and N1 wireless chip. Both components are already known from the iPhone Air and originate from Apple’s hardware workshop.
It remains unclear whether the iPhone 17e will receive a new camera. A “2-in-1” solution like the one in the iPhone Air, which allows for lossless zoom, is conceivable. It is considered quite certain that the new budget iPhone will finally include MagSafe for faster wireless charging.
Launch Still in February
As “Macwelt” reports, citing its own sources, the iPhone 17e is set to be released on February 19—exactly one year after the iPhone 16e. Like its predecessor, Apple is likely to forgo a major presentation and instead announce the new smartphone in a press release.