Apple has expanded its latest smartphone lineup with the iPhone 17e, a device designed to deliver modern iPhone features at a lower starting price. Positioned as the most accessible model in the iPhone 17 series, the phone focuses on delivering performance, camera capability, and Apple’s new AI features without the premium cost of the Pro models.
Starting at £1,199, the iPhone 17e is aimed at users who want a powerful everyday smartphone without stepping into the much higher price bracket of devices like the iPhone 17 Pro or iPhone Air. Despite its lower price, Apple has still packed the device with the A19 chip and support for Apple Intelligence, making it a surprisingly capable addition to the lineup.
Pre orders open on March 11, with buyers able to choose between different storage options, colors, and trade in deals that can significantly reduce the final price.
Clean design with familiar Apple aesthetics
The iPhone 17e sticks closely to Apple’s modern design language, offering a simple and minimal look. It comes in three colors including soft pink, white, and black, giving users a mix of classic and playful options.
The device features a 6.1 inch Super Retina XDR display with slim borders and rounded corners. While it does not include features like ProMotion or an Always On display, the panel still promises bright colors and sharp visuals for everyday use.
Unlike the higher models in the lineup, the iPhone 17e retains the traditional notch design instead of the Dynamic Island. The aluminum frame keeps the phone lightweight and durable, while the overall design remains familiar to anyone who has used a recent iPhone.
Apple has also included the Action button on this model, allowing users to quickly trigger functions such as the camera, flashlight, or shortcuts with a single press.
A19 chip and Apple Intelligence power the experience
Performance is one of the areas where the iPhone 17e still manages to impress. Apple has equipped the device with the A19 chip, the same processor used in the standard iPhone 17.
This chip includes a 4 core GPU and neural accelerators designed to support Apple Intelligence features. These AI driven capabilities help power smart writing tools, improved voice interactions, and enhanced photo processing.
For everyday use, the A19 chip should provide fast performance across apps, gaming, and multitasking. Apple also claims the phone can deliver up to 26 hours of video playback, which places it comfortably within the range of most modern flagship devices.
Charging and connectivity are handled through a USB C port, though the phone supports USB 2 speeds rather than the faster USB 3 technology found in the Pro models.
A capable camera with a simplified setup
Apple has kept the camera system simple but powerful. The iPhone 17e features a 48 megapixel Fusion main camera that supports high resolution photos at 24MP and 48MP.
This camera system includes features such as next generation portrait photography with adjustable focus and depth control. Users can also shoot Dolby Vision video up to 4K at 60 frames per second.
Optical zoom options include 1x and 2x, which should be sufficient for everyday photography. However, the phone does not include an ultra wide lens or macro photography, features that are reserved for higher end models.
On the front, the phone includes a 12MP TrueDepth camera for selfies and Face ID. While it lacks advanced features like Center Stage or dual capture, it should still deliver solid image quality for video calls and social media.
Storage options, pricing, and trade-in offers
The iPhone 17e comes in two storage configurations. The base model offers 256GB of storage and starts at ₹64,900 in India, which is roughly £619 in the UK and about $779 in the United States. For users who need more space, the 512GB version is priced at ₹84,900, approximately £809 and around $1,019.
Apple is also offering flexible payment options. Buyers can choose EMI plans starting at around ₹11,327 per month, with additional benefits such as no cost EMI and instant cashback available through select bank cards and payment partners.
Customers can further reduce the overall cost through Apple’s trade in program. Eligible smartphones can be exchanged for credit ranging from ₹3,100 to ₹62,700 depending on the device model and condition, which can significantly lower the final purchase price of the new iPhone.
Inside the box, Apple includes the iPhone 17e and a USB C to USB C charging cable that supports fast charging. Similar to recent iPhone releases, the company no longer includes a power adapter or EarPods in the box. Apple says this move supports its broader environmental goals by reducing electronic waste and packaging materials.
Follow TechBSB For More Updates
