TLDR
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Apple unveiled the iPhone 17e starting at $599 with 256GB storage, doubling base capacity at the same price.
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The device features Appleās new A19 chip and C1X modem for faster speeds and improved efficiency.
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MagSafe support arrives in the āeā lineup for the first time with faster wireless charging.
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The launch signals Appleās push to defend global smartphone market share amid rising component costs.
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Apple also introduced a redesigned iPad Air powered by its new M4 chip.
Apple introduced its new iPhone 17e on Monday, expanding its lower-priced lineup with upgraded hardware and higher storage while keeping the starting price unchanged. The device begins at $599 and now includes 256GB of base storage, double the previous entry capacity.
iPhone 17E is official
– A19 chip
– C1X modem
– Doubles to start at 256GB(!!)
– Adds Magsafe (finally)
– Still $599https://t.co/V1UFu3V4JS pic.twitter.com/1h7c44em3i— Marques Brownlee (@MKBHD) March 2, 2026
The move comes as Apple looks to maintain its global smartphone market share in a competitive environment marked by rising memory chip prices and supply constraints. Some analysts view the added storage at the same price as an effective price reduction for customers.
The new iPhone 17e is feature stacked and value packed!
With faster performance and twice the starting storage, an advanced camera system, enhanced durability, and the magic of MagSafe, itās an exceptionalĀ value. pic.twitter.com/EaCQahepKN
— Greg Joswiak (@gregjoz) March 2, 2026
The iPhone 17e will be available for pre-order in more than 70 countries starting Wednesday, with sales beginning March 11. Apple is positioning the model as a stronger value option for users seeking a lower-cost entry into its latest iPhone lineup.
Hardware upgrades and performance improvements
The iPhone 17e is powered by Appleās latest A19 chip built on 3-nanometer technology, offering improved performance and efficiency for the entry-tier lineup. The device also includes Appleās new C1X modem designed to deliver faster cellular speeds with lower power consumption.
MagSafe support is included in the āeā series for the first time, enabling compatibility with Appleās magnetic accessories and wireless charging speeds of up to 15 watts. Apple said the upgrades are designed to provide long-term performance and improved user experience for customers upgrading to the iPhone 17 family.
Broader product updates and ecosystem focus
Alongside the new smartphone, Apple introduced a redesigned iPad Air powered by its M4 chip. The updated tablet lineup includes an 11-inch model starting at $599 and a 13-inch version starting at $799.
The announcements come as Apple continues to expand its device ecosystem and integrate its latest silicon across product lines. Reports also indicated that Google has explored hosting servers to support a future version of Siri powered by Gemini, though both companies have not commented publicly.
Apple stock moved slightly lower in premarket trading following the announcements as investors assessed the companyās latest hardware updates and market positioning.
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