Apple seems to be showing serious commitment to its more affordable iPhone lineup. A file from Consumer Intelligence Research Partners (CIRP) indicates that the iPhone 17e should arrive in early 2026, only a 12 months after the release of the iPhone 16e. The move is a stark departure from Apple’s previous approach to budget iPhones.
The iPhone SE models are launched every two to three years, making them seem like an occasional idea rather than a regular part of Apple’s lineup. By refreshing the “e” models annually, Apple is signaling that these devices are now a core part of the iPhone family, not a side project.
iPhone 17e Launch Timeline (Leaked)
- According to a CIRP analysts report, the successor to the iPhone 16e, possibly the iPhone 17e could be launched around this time next year, i.e . in February 2026.
- It will follow the introduction of the standard iPhone 17 models, which will likely launch at this year’s annual September event.
- The report also suggests that more ‘e’ series phones “may be part of the event going forward”, indicating that they could be launched yearly. For reference, the iPhone SE models were not launched every year.
- This strategy could make it similar to Google’s Pixel ‘A’ models, which are usually introduced a few months after the launch of the standard Pixel number series models.
- Given the hardware of the iPhone 16e, it can be speculated that its successor could borrow some hardware specifications from the upcoming primary iPhone 17.
Will the iPhone 17e be a hit?
The achievement of the iPhone 17e will rely upon how nicely the iPhone 16e performs. If sales remain good, Apple will likely stick to the annual cycle. But many believe that unless Apple lowers the price or adds more features, the “e” line will not last. If the 16e struggles, Apple might also additionally ought to reconsider its approach. For now, the idea of an annual “e” iPhone is an interesting change in strategy from Apple. We’ll have to wait and see whether it becomes a long-term success or just another short-term experiment.
Read Also: Apple iPhone 16e: Price, Features, EMI Plans & Pre-Order Details
