Apple Unveils iPhone 17e and Upgraded iPad Air Models
Apple has announced the iPhone 17e, its latest entry-level smartphone, alongside upgrades to the iPad Air lineup. The iPhone 17e addresses previous criticisms by boosting storage and incorporating key features while maintaining the $599 starting price. Simultaneously, the iPad Air receives a significant processor upgrade with the introduction of the M4 chip.
iPhone 17e: A Step Up for Apple’s Most Affordable iPhone
The iPhone 17e replaces the iPhone 16e as Apple’s most affordable iPhone model. A key improvement is the doubling of base storage to 256GB, a direct response to feedback on previous models. The fresh device also features the A19 chip, the same processor found in the standard iPhone 17 series, and introduces MagSafe wireless charging compatibility.
The iPhone 17e is available in black, white, and a new light pink color option, with storage configurations of 256GB and 512GB. Pre-orders begin on Wednesday, March 4th, with delivery scheduled for Wednesday, March 11th.
Apple has equipped the iPhone 17e with its own C1X modem, designed to enhance wireless performance and future-proof the device. Yet, the display remains a 6.1-inch panel with a 60Hz refresh rate, lacking the adaptive “ProMotion” technology found in higher-end models. The iPhone 17e features a single 48-megapixel rear camera with 2x optical zoom.
iPad Air Gets an M4 Boost
Alongside the iPhone 17e, Apple is upgrading the iPad Air. The design and display sizes (11-inch and 13-inch) remain unchanged, but the processor receives a substantial upgrade to the M4 chip – a leap from the M3 chip previously expected. RAM has also been increased to 12GB.
The 11-inch iPad Air is priced starting at $579 (Wi-Fi) or $729 (cellular), while the 13-inch iPad Air starts at $749 (Wi-Fi) or $899 (cellular). Pre-orders begin on Wednesday, March 4th, with delivery scheduled for March 11th.
What Wasn’t Announced
Notably, Apple did not announce a new standard iPad (12th generation) during this presentation. The company indicated that further product announcements are expected later this week, potentially including additional iPad models.
Compare iPhone Models on Apple’s Website
Read more about the iPhone 17e on Engadget
AppleInsider’s Comparison of iPhone 17e and iPhone 16e