iPhone 17e Rumors: Expected Features, Key Upgrades, and What Apple Might Keep Exclusive

Apple’s iPhone 17 has already impressed users with a wave of new upgrades, but the spotlight is now shifting toward what could be the company’s next mid-range release — the iPhone 17e, reportedly planned for May 2026. For years, Apple’s affordable lineup (previously the iPhone SE, now the “e” series) has borrowed many core features from its flagship siblings, while still cutting back in certain areas to keep the price competitive.

So, what features from the iPhone 17 could realistically make their way to the upcoming iPhone 17e? At El-Balad, we break down the most likely upgrades — and the features Apple may hold back for its higher-end models.

iPhone 17e Expected to Feature the A19 Chipset

One thing feels certain: the iPhone 17e will likely ship with Apple’s new A19 chip. Apple has consistently equipped its entry-level iPhones with the same CPU as the previous year’s flagships, although with minor tweaks.

• iPhone 16e had the same A18 processor as the iPhone 16 but with slightly reduced GPU power.

• Expect the iPhone 17e to follow the same pattern — powered by the A19, but possibly with a GPU core removed to create differentiation.

Chances of happening: Almost guaranteed

Will the iPhone 17e Get a Bigger Display?

Apple expanded the standard iPhone 17 display to 6.3 inches, matching the smaller Pro model. The iPhone 16e, however, stayed at 6.1 inches.

• A jump to 6.3 inches on the iPhone 17e seems unlikely, as Apple may reserve larger screens to push customers toward higher-priced models.

• A more realistic expectation is for the iPhone 17e to adopt Dynamic Island, replacing the old notched design.

Chances of happening: Slim, unless Apple fully ditches the notch

Faster Display Refresh Rate Still Out of Reach

The iPhone 17 now features an adaptive refresh rate up to 120Hz, aligning with its Pro counterparts and rival Android phones. However, Apple has kept this premium feature exclusive to its flagship models since the iPhone 13 Pro.

• The iPhone 17e is expected to remain at 60Hz, keeping ProMotion as a major incentive to upgrade to pricier models.

Chances of happening: Very unlikely

Storage Upgrades: Will 256GB Become Standard?

For the first time, the entire iPhone 17 lineup starts at 256GB storage, leaving the iPhone 16e’s 128GB base model looking outdated.

• Apple could stick to 128GB for the iPhone 17e to maintain product segmentation.

• A jump to 256GB would be welcome, but don’t count on it.

Chances of happening: Possible, but not highly likely

Ceramic Shield 2 for Stronger Durability

Apple introduced Ceramic Shield 2 on the iPhone 17, boasting three times more scratch resistance.

• Durability features have historically trickled down to Apple’s mid-range models.

• Expect Ceramic Shield 2 and IP68 water resistance on the iPhone 17e as well.

Chances of happening: Very likely

Faster Charging Speeds Could Arrive

The iPhone 17 lineup now supports 35W wired charging, offering a 50% charge in just 20 minutes. By comparison, the iPhone 16e tops out at 27W.

• Apple may well bring the faster charging standard to the iPhone 17e.

• Wireless charging enhancements, like full MagSafe support, are less certain.

Chances of happening: Likely

Camera Upgrades Remain Limited

The iPhone 17 introduced major camera leaps, including a 48MP primary sensor and a telephoto lens for Pro models. But don’t expect similar advancements for the iPhone 17e.

• The iPhone 17e will almost certainly stick to a single-lens setup, with possible tweaks like a larger sensor or improved computational photography.

• Ultrawide or telephoto cameras are unlikely to appear.

Chances of happening: Minimal

iPhone 17e Rumors: Early Takeaways

Based on Apple’s track record, here’s a quick outlook for the iPhone 17e: