iPhone 17e Expected to Launch in February With MagSafe and Major Hardware Upgrades
Apple appears ready to establish a new early-year release tradition for its more affordable iPhone lineup. According to reports from German tech outlet Macwelt, the iPhone 17e is expected to be officially unveiled on February 19, 2026, exactly one year after the debut of the iPhone 16e.
Interestingly, the report suggests Apple may choose a quieter launch approach this time. Instead of a full-scale keynote event, the iPhone 17e could be announced via a website update and press release—a strategy Apple has increasingly used for mid-cycle and budget-focused products.
MagSafe Finally Comes to the e-Series
One of the most anticipated upgrades is the addition of MagSafe support, a feature notably missing from the iPhone 16e. With MagSafe included, the iPhone 17e will be compatible with Apple’s magnetic accessories and faster wireless charging solutions, reportedly supporting charging speeds of up to 25W.
This change addresses one of the biggest criticisms of the previous model, especially for users already invested in Apple’s accessory ecosystem.
Powered by the New A19 Chip
Internally, the iPhone 17e is expected to receive a substantial performance boost. Reports from Macotakara indicate the device will run on Apple’s new A19 processor, enabling smoother performance and full support for Apple Intelligence features.
The phone is also rumored to include Apple’s latest in-house modem, the C1X, which is said to deliver up to twice the data speeds of the previous C1 modem while offering improved power efficiency.
Faster Wireless Connectivity
To further improve connectivity, Apple is expected to equip the iPhone 17e with the N1 networking chip, enhancing support for Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6. These upgrades would benefit features such as AirDrop, Personal Hotspot, and other data-heavy wireless functions that rely on stable and fast connections.
Familiar Design, Affordable Price
Those hoping for a major design refresh may want to manage expectations. Most reports suggest the iPhone 17e will retain the classic notch display rather than adopting Dynamic Island, along with a single rear camera, in order to maintain its position as the most affordable model in the lineup.
The price is expected to remain around USD 599, reinforcing the e-series role as an entry point for users who want a modern iPhone experience without flagship pricing.
A Strategic Early-Year Release
Launching the iPhone 17e in February highlights Apple’s broader strategy to keep momentum throughout the year rather than relying solely on its traditional September releases. If this pattern continues, the e-series could become a regularly updated annual model, making it easier for budget-conscious users across SEA to choose a new iPhone without long waits.
Source: 9to5mac
