Apple’s iPhone 17e Needs More Than MagSafe | One More Thing

Apple is poised to refresh its entry-level smartphone lineup with the imminent release of the iPhone 17e, a device expected to address consumer criticism regarding the value proposition of its predecessor, the iPhone 16e. Rumors suggest the tech giant will reintroduce fan-favorite features like MagSafe and debut the Dynamic Island on its budget tier to justify the $600 price point, potentially launching the device alongside significant updates to Siri later this month.

Key Points

• MagSafe Integration: The 17e is expected to support 15W MagSafe charging, a significant upgrade from the 16e’s slower 7.5W Qi limitation.
• Design Overhaul: The budget model will likely adopt the Dynamic Island and slimmer bezels, replacing the traditional camera notch.
• Performance Specs: Powered by the new A19 chip, the device is expected to retain 8GB of RAM and a 60Hz refresh rate.
• Launch Window: Analysts predict a release in late February or early March, possibly coinciding with a major iOS update for Siri.

Addressing the Budget Value Gap

The upcoming release follows a mixed reception to the iPhone 16e. While serving as Apple’s entry-level offering, the device’s $600 price tag drew sharp criticism for lacking standard features found in previous budget models, which had retailed for as low as $429. Industry observers believe the iPhone 17e aims to rectify this perceived value disparity without lowering the retail price.

According to Bridget Carey of One More Thing, the most notable functional restoration is wireless charging capabilities. While the current model relies on standard Qi charging capped at 7.5 watts, the iPhone 17e is rumored to reintegrate MagSafe, allowing for faster 15-watt charging and magnetic accessory compatibility.

Hardware and Design Upgrades

Beyond charging, the iPhone 17e is expected to bridge the design gap between the budget tier and Apple's flagship models. Reports indicate the device will finally ditch the camera notch in favor of the Dynamic Island—the interactive "pill" cutout that displays system alerts and background activities.

The device will reportedly feature a "Center Stage" capable selfie camera, which uses software to expand the frame and accommodate group shots regardless of device orientation. Internally, the phone will receive a performance boost from Apple's new A19 chip.

"Performance-wise, it'll of course get a boost with the new A19 chip that powers the iPhone 17. The last E model came with one less core... but it's a fine place to cut back for costs."

However, Apple appears to be maintaining strict segmentation between its tiers. The 17e is expected to stick with a single-lens rear camera, 8GB of RAM, and a standard 60Hz refresh rate display, eschewing the 120Hz ProMotion technology found in Pro models.

Launch Timing and Software Synergy

The timing of the iPhone 17e announcement remains a subject of speculation, with history suggesting a release window between late February and early March. Last year’s model was unveiled via a press release on February 19, a strategy Apple may repeat. However, the release could be timed to overshadow competitors, as Samsung is expected to unveil new Galaxy devices in late February, followed by the Mobile World Congress in Spain during the first week of March.

There is also a strong possibility that Apple will tie the hardware launch to major software developments. A Bloomberg report indicates that Apple plans to reveal significant improvements to Siri in the second half of February. These updates, potentially part of an iOS 26.4 release, could provide a marketing hook for the new handset.

In the interim, Apple continues to push its services ecosystem, recently updating the Apple Invites app with Super Bowl and artist-themed content, requiring iCloud+ subscriptions for full host functionality. As the industry turns its eyes toward the spring hardware cycle, the market awaits confirmation on whether the iPhone 17e can successfully redefine what a "budget" iPhone offers.