Apple surprises fans with the iPhone 17e

Apple surprises fans with the iPhone 17e
Source: Daily Mail Online

Apple has surprised fans with a brand new iPhone, called the iPhone 17e.

The tech giant usually hosts elaborate launch events at its Apple Park headquarters in Cupertino, California.

However, it skipped the fanfare this year, simply announcing the device via a post on its newsroom.

Priced at £599/$599, the iPhone 17e is the same price as last year's iPhone 16e - but comes with twice the amount of storage.

There's also a stunning new 'soft pink' colour option, which is bound to be a hit with the Instagram generation.

'iPhone 17e combines powerful performance and features our users love at an exceptional value, making it a compelling option for customers looking to upgrade to the iPhone 17 family,' said Kaiann Drance, Apple's vice president of Worldwide iPhone Product Marketing.
'We know our customers want a product that will last, and iPhone 17e delivers just that.
'With A19 for incredible performance, double the entry storage, a smarter camera system, and enhanced durability, iPhone 17e is designed to stay fast, secure, and valuable for years to come.'

The iPhone 17e features Apple's latest-generation A19 chip, which delivers 'exceptional performance', according to Apple.

In terms of camera, the device has a 48MP Fusion camera, although Apple's describes this as 'two cameras in one'.

'The 48MP Fusion camera enables an optical-quality 2x Telephoto, giving users two cameras in one so they can get closer to the subject and easily frame their shot,' the tech giant explained.
'Users can shoot sharp photos at up to 48MP resolution, or capture in the 24MP default for incredible image quality at a file size perfect for storing and sharing.'

One of the most exciting new features is support for MagSafe charging, which many fans were disappointed was missing in the iPhone 16e.

This not only allows for fast wireless charging up to 15W, but also opens the door to a range of new accessories, including chargers, wallets, and camera accessories.

The iPhone 17e is available in three colours - black, white and a new soft pink - and in two storage options.

While last year's device cost £599/$599 for 128GB, you'll be able to get twice the storage for the same price this year - ideal if you're always running out of space on your iPhone!

One of the most exciting new features is support for MagSafe charging, which many fans were disappointed was missing in the iPhone 16e. This not only allows for fast wireless charging up to 15W, but also opens the door to a range of new accessories, including chargers, wallets, and camera accessories

The new iPhone isn't the only device Apple has announced today. The company also treated fans to a new iPad Air, powered by M4

iPhone 17e: Key specs

  • Display: 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR
  • Camera: 48MP Fusion
  • Colours: Black, white, and soft pink
  • Price: $599 for 256GB of storage
  • Charging: MagSafe and Qi2 for fast wireless charging
  • Availability: Pre-order March 4, with availability starting March 11

Pre-orders don't begin until Wednesday 4 March, with availablity from Wednesday 11 March.

However, the announcement has already generated huge excitement across social media.

'Slam dunk on that feature set and price point,' one delighted fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
Another added: 'Excellent value with the addition of MagSafe.'
And one said: 'Wait, 256GB base storage for $599? If that's real, Apple is finally listening.'
'The A19 chip in a budget model is actually insane value.'

The new iPhone isn't the only device Apple has announced today.

The company also treated fans to a new iPad Air, powered by M4.

The new device is priced at $599 for the 11-inch model and $799 for the 13-inch model, and is also available for pre-order on March 4, with availability beginning March 11.

'iPad Air gives users more ways than ever to be creative and productive, offering powerful performance and incredible versatility to help them turn their ideas into reality,' said Bob Borchers, Apple's vice president of Worldwide Product Marketing.
'With its blazing performance thanks to M4, incredible AI capabilities, and game-changing iPadOS 26 features, there's never been a better time to choose or upgrade to iPad Air.'