iPhone 17e is here: Here's what's inside the new model

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With the iPhone 17e, Apple expands the iPhone 17 family with a powerful yet more attractively priced model. It combines the new A19 chip, an improved cellular modem, a 48-megapixel camera, advanced satellite capabilities, and, for the first time, 256 GB of storage in the base version. The starting price is €699. Pre-orders begin on March 4th, with shipping starting on March 11th.

The iPhone 17e is positioned as a more affordable model within the current generation, without compromising on key features. Compared to the previous entry-level version, it offers twice the storage space for the same price. With 256 GB, there's ample room for high-resolution photos, 4K videos, apps, and games. Compared to the iPhone 12, the new model even offers four times the base storage.

According to Apple, the iPhone 17e is aimed at users who want to enter the iPhone 17 series and value performance, durability and modern features.

Design and durability

The iPhone 17e's casing is made of aerospace-grade aluminum. The design is lightweight yet robust and IP68-rated for dust, splash, and water resistance. Apple emphasizes that iPhones retain their value exceptionally well compared to many other smartphones. This model, too, is designed for long-term use.

The front of the phone features Ceramic Shield 2. According to the manufacturer, this new generation of glass cover is three times more scratch-resistant than its predecessor and more durable than any other smartphone glass. Additionally, a special coating reduces reflections and glare.

The iPhone 17e is available in black, white and a new soft pink with a matte finish.

Display and operation

The 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display is based on OLED technology. It supports Dolby Vision and achieves a peak HDR brightness of up to 1200 nits. This ensures that content remains clearly visible even in bright daylight. Colors appear rich in contrast and detail, whether streaming videos or playing games.

Face ID enables secure and seamless authentication when unlocking, making purchases, or logging into apps. Operation is complemented by an action button that allows direct access to frequently used functions such as the flashlight or visual intelligence.

A19 chip and C1X modem: More performance with higher efficiency

Inside, the new A19 chip, manufactured using advanced 3-nanometer technology, powers the device. The 6-core CPU delivers significantly improved performance and is up to twice as fast as the CPU in the iPhone 11. Everyday tasks like scrolling through photos run just as smoothly as computationally intensive Apple Intelligence features, including Clean Up.

The quad-core GPU enables console-level gaming. It supports demanding AAA titles as well as hardware-accelerated ray tracing, which provides more realistic lighting and reflection effects. The system is complemented by a 16-core Neural Engine, optimized for large generative models. Combined with Neural Accelerators in the GPU, AI models run faster than in the previous generation.

Also new is the C1X cellular modem. It's up to twice as fast as the C1 in the iPhone 16e and reaches the speed of the iPhone Air. At the same time, it consumes 30 percent less power than the modem in the iPhone 16 Pro. This contributes significantly to the improved battery life.

Battery life, charging and MagSafe

Thanks to the efficiency of the A19 chip, the power-saving C1X modem and the energy management of iOS 26, the iPhone 17e achieves all-day battery life.

Charging is done via USB-C. The battery can be charged to up to 50 percent in about 30 minutes. The device also supports MagSafe and the Qi2 standard for wireless charging up to 15 watts. For comparison, the iPhone 16e only offered 7.5 watts for Qi charging. MagSafe enables the use of a wide ecosystem of accessories, including chargers, cases, stands, wallets, and camera accessories.

48MP Fusion camera and 4K video

A key feature of the iPhone 17e is its 48-megapixel Fusion camera. It enables high-resolution photos up to 48 megapixels, or standard 24-megapixel shots with optimized file size. The integrated 2x telephoto zoom operates at optical quality, effectively combining two cameras into one.

Portrait mode has been further developed. The camera automatically recognizes people, dogs, and cats and saves depth information while taking the photo. This allows images to be converted into portraits with natural background blur even after the fact. The focus point can also be adjusted later.

The latest generation of HDR technology ensures realistic skin tones, balanced midtones, bright highlights, and detailed shadows. Even in low light conditions, the night mode delivers impressive results.

The iPhone 17e records videos in 4K with Dolby Vision at up to 60 frames per second. It also records spatial audio, which, when used with AirPods or Apple Vision Pro, enables an immersive sound experience. Audio Mix provides advanced audio editing options. Automatic wind noise reduction uses machine learning to filter out distracting background noise.

Satellite functions and safety

Even outside of cellular and Wi-Fi coverage, the iPhone 17e remains functional. Messages can be sent, emergency SOS calls made, and roadside assistance services contacted via satellite. Additionally, the location can be shared via satellite using "Find My" to inform contacts of the user's whereabouts.

The safety concept is complemented by an accident detection system. In the event of serious car accidents, the device can automatically notify emergency services if there is no response.

Sustainability and environmental goals

As part of its Apple 2030 initiative, the company aims to become carbon neutral by the end of the decade. The iPhone 17e is made from 30 percent recycled materials. This includes 85 percent recycled aluminum in the casing and 100 percent recycled cobalt in the battery.

The supply chain uses 55 percent renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power. The packaging is made entirely of fibers and is recyclable. At the same time, the device meets high standards in terms of energy efficiency and safe chemicals.

Price and Availability

The iPhone 17e is available in black, white, and light pink. It comes in 256GB and 512GB storage options. The starting price is €699 for the 256GB version.

Pre-orders start on March 4th, delivery begins on March 11th.

iPhone 17e: Powerful technology at a fair entry-level price

The iPhone 17e combines the latest chip technology, an energy-efficient modem, a high-resolution 48MP camera, improved durability, long battery life, MagSafe support, and comprehensive satellite capabilities. With 256GB of base storage and a starting price of €699, this model positions itself as a technically well-equipped option within the iPhone 17 family. (Image: Apple)