Apple has launched the new iPhone 17e, featuring the A19 chip and starting at $599. The company is also updating the iPad Air models with new technology.
The new iPhone 17e. (Source: Apple)
The new iPhone 17e. (Source: Apple)
Apple announced the iPhone 17e on Monday, positioning the new smartphone as a successor to the iPhone 16e as the company’s entry-level model.
For its most affordable iPhone, Apple is focusing on internal improvements and addressing one of the biggest criticisms of its predecessor. The iPhone 17e includes the latest A19 chip, the same processor found in the iPhone 17 series.
Starting at $599
Perhaps the most significant updates for everyday use: Apple is equipping the 17e with MagSafe, the magnetic charging connector, and doubling the base storage to 256GB – all at the same starting price of $599. This move demonstrates Apple’s commitment to providing increased value to consumers.
The iPhone 17e supports MagSafe for fast wireless charging. (Source: Apple)
The iPhone 17e is available in black, white, and soft pink, with storage options of 256GB and 512GB. According to an Apple release, online pre-orders will commence on Wednesday, March 4 at 3:15 PM, with shipping starting on Wednesday, March 11.
Thanks to the A19 chip and the new C1X modem – Apple’s own cellular chip – the iPhone 17e is expected to be future-proof. The 6.1-inch display, however, remains at 60Hz and does not offer an adaptive refresh rate, known as “ProMotion” by Apple. The new budget iPhone features a single camera lens on the rear (48 megapixels, with 2x optical zoom).
New iPad Air
In addition to the entry-level iPhone, Apple is also updating the iPad Air models with new technology. The design and display size (11 and 13 inches) remain unchanged. In terms of processor performance, Apple is skipping its M3 chip and directly incorporating the M4 chip, previously reserved for the much more expensive iPad Pro. The manufacturer is also increasing the RAM to 12 GB.
The new iPad Air comes with the M4 chip. (Source: Apple)
The 11-inch iPad Air is available starting at $579 (Wi-Fi model) or $729 (with cellular). The 13-inch iPad Air starts at $749 (Wi-Fi model) or $899 (cellular). Pre-orders begin Wednesday, with shipping starting on March 11.
Notably, a new standard iPad (12th generation) was not announced on Monday. However, Apple is expected to unveil further product announcements later this week, which may include another iPad model with an A18 or A19 chip.
This post first appeared on “watson.ch“.
