Will There Be an iPhone 17e?

iPhone 17e? Rumors are rife after the success of the iPhone 16e, but Apple has yet to confirm it. Bloomberg's Gurman leaves the door open. Learn about the future of the "e" line and Apple's big plans for the 20th anniversary iPhone!

Many rumors suggest that Apple may launch the iPhone 17e next year due to the positive sales performance of the iPhone 16e.

Back of the iPhone 16e. Photo: Cult of Mac.

Many rumors suggest that Apple may launch the iPhone 17e next year due to the positive sales performance of the iPhone 16e.

In the Power On newsletter from Bloomberg, analyst Mark Gurman noted that Apple is still uncertain about releasing the iPhone 17e, even though the iPhone 16e has seen relatively strong sales.

The iPhone 16e was launched by Apple in mid-February. With a starting price of $600, the device features a 6.1-inch OLED display, Face ID, an A18 processor, and a USB-C port. Apple positioned the product as a budget-friendly version of the iPhone 16.

Recently, several rumors have indicated that Apple may introduce the iPhone 17e next year. Leaker Fixed Focus Digital emphasized that Apple is nearing the trial production phase of the iPhone 17e, which is expected to debut in May 2026.

At the end of February, Fixed Focus Digital also revealed a “new project codename” within Apple’s supply chain, likely linked to the iPhone 17e. However, Bloomberg’s Gurman suggested that the possibility of the iPhone 17e is still unclear.

“Basically, the iPhone 16e is a scaled-down version of the iPhone 16 and a new iteration of the iPhone SE 3. Apple’s leverage with this product is in positioning it as a variant of the iPhone 16 rather than an upgrade to the SE line,” Gurman said.

“This approach increases its appeal, making the iPhone 16e more attractive to users in markets like China. The big question is whether Apple will upgrade the ‘e’ series annually. The company has not made a final decision, and the necessary timing is still a few months away.”

According to data from Counterpoint Research, Apple held the number one spot in global smartphone market share for Q1 (19%) for the first time. The iPhone 16e is seen as a major contributing factor, alongside high demand in emerging markets.

In fact, launching a more affordable iPhone ‘e’ model can help Apple refresh its core product line and draw user interest. Previously, the company only introduced new color options for certain iPhones mid-cycle.

According to Gurman, many competitors are following similar strategies. Samsung releases new smartphones multiple times per year, and Google launches the Pixel “a” models months after unveiling its flagship Pixel devices.

iPhone 16e. Photo: The Verge.

In addition to the iPhone 17e, Gurman also shared insights on a special iPhone model to commemorate the brand’s 20th anniversary, expected to launch in 2027.

Specifically, the device is anticipated to be more expensive than current models. One reason could be the U.S. tariff policy on products made in China.

According to the Bloomberg writer, Apple may shift some iPhone production to India, but not all. With rumors that the 2027 iPhone will include many new technologies, manufacturing it outside China currently seems unfeasible.

“Although Apple’s production in India is now nearly on par with China in terms of iPhone quality, the 20th anniversary model is expected to be extremely complex. The device will require new components and techniques, making initial production outside China unlikely,” Gurman emphasized.

“This situation might change at some point, but not in 2027. It’s worth noting that Apple has never produced a new design outside China from the start.”