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Apple Poised to Launch iPhone 17e as Early‑2026 Hardware Wave Nears

Reports point to a budget model featuring A19, in‑house connectivity chips, MagSafe, priced at $599.

Overview

  • Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman says the iPhone 17e launch is imminent, with some reports pointing to a February 19 press‑release announcement that remains unconfirmed.
  • Core upgrades reportedly include the A19 processor, MagSafe charging, Apple’s C1X cellular modem, and the N1 wireless chip for Bluetooth, Wi‑Fi, and Thread.
  • Multiple outlets say Apple plans to hold the U.S. starting price at $599, positioning the phone for cost‑conscious buyers.
  • Design details are unsettled, with several reports expecting a 6.1‑inch notched display and single rear camera while others claim a shift to the Dynamic Island and possible storage changes.
  • The phone is described as the opening move in a broader push that includes refreshed iPads and M5 Pro/Max MacBook Pros as early as the week of March 2, plus an iOS 26.4 developer beta in late February that begins rolling out Siri and Apple Intelligence improvements.