According to several reliable sources, including leakers on Weibo, Apple’s upcoming iPhone 17e is reportedly entering mass production, and it brings a mix of modern design and familiar limitations (via MacRumors).
In a new post, leaker “Digital Chat Station” has claimed the iPhone 17e will finally ditch the notch that has defined the entry-level iPhone for years. In its place, Apple is expected to bring the Dynamic Island to its most affordable handset. This move would officially mark the end of the notch era for the new iPhone lineup.
The inclusion of the Dynamic Island is a big win for users who want that “premium” feel without the premium price tag. The interactive cutout will allow budget users to access Live Activities, control music, and track timers just like they would on a flagship model.
However, there is a catch. While the design is getting a facelift, the actual display technology remains stuck in the past. Reports indicate the iPhone 17e will retain a 6.1-inch OLED display with a 60Hz refresh rate. While the rest of the iPhone 17 family has finally moved to 120Hz ProMotion displays, Apple appears to be keeping the 60Hz panel on the 17e to keep costs down.
The iPhone 17e is also tipped to feature the A19 chip, built on TSMC’s third-generation 3nm process. Some rumors suggest this might be a “downclocked” version of the chip found in the standard iPhone 17, but it will still offer a healthy performance boost over the A18.
Perhaps the most exciting news for longtime fans of the budget line is the rumored addition of MagSafe. The current iPhone 16e famously lacks the magnetic ring, limiting users to standard Qi charging and preventing the use of popular magnetic wallets and stands. The iPhone 17e is expected to fix this oversight, finally bringing it into the modern MagSafe ecosystem.
If Apple follows its usual rhythm, we could see the iPhone 17e as early as February or March 2026. The starting price is expected to hold steady at $899 CAD, making it a very tempting option for those who want the latest software and a modern design without spending four figures.
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