Apple Set To Launch IPhone 17e With MagSafe Upgrade

Apple is stirring anticipation in the smartphone world once again, as industry insiders and accessory makers point to a February 19, 2026 launch date for the iPhone 17e. If the rumors hold true, this release would mark exactly one year since the introduction of the iPhone 16e, signaling Apple’s commitment to an annual spring refresh for its budget-friendly “e” series. The timing itself is a curiosity—February 19 falls on a Thursday, a day rarely chosen for Apple product announcements, which traditionally occur earlier in the week. According to reports from MacDailyNews, Macworld, and Mashable, this unorthodox scheduling might indicate a low-key rollout, perhaps via a press release rather than Apple’s signature media spectacle.

The iPhone 17e is shaping up to be more than just a minor update. One of the most significant changes, confirmed by several leaks and industry sources, is the addition of MagSafe wireless charging. This feature, which enables magnetic alignment for faster, more reliable wireless charging and compatibility with a range of accessories, has been standard on most iPhones since 2020—but was conspicuously missing from last year’s iPhone 16e. The new model is expected to support up to 25W wireless charging, a substantial leap from the 7.5W Qi wireless charging on its predecessor. As Macworld notes, "the new smartphone is reportedly equipped with MagSafe (wireless charging up to 25W), whereas the 16e missed MagSafe altogether and used the slower 7.5W Qi wireless standard."

This improvement addresses one of the most common criticisms leveled at the iPhone 16e, which, despite its modern USB-C port and capable A18 processor, felt compromised by its lack of MagSafe and reliance on standard Qi charging. The move not only brings the iPhone 17e closer in functionality to Apple’s flagship lineup but also opens the door for users to take advantage of a broader ecosystem of magnetic accessories—everything from wallets to battery packs and stands.

On the design front, the iPhone 17e is rumored to take cues from the iPhone 15, boasting a 6.1-inch display with thinner bezels and, perhaps, a smaller Dynamic Island cutout for notifications and app alerts. However, there’s some debate among sources about whether the “e” series will embrace the Dynamic Island this year or stick with the traditional notch for another generation. According to MacDailyNews and Macworld, analysts are split: some expect the Dynamic Island to make its way to the 17e, while others believe it’s still a generation or two away for Apple’s entry-level models.

What seems certain is that the iPhone 17e will retain a single rear camera—likely a 48-megapixel wide-angle lens, similar to the one found on the 16e. This cost-conscious approach allows Apple to keep the price down while still delivering impressive photo quality through advanced computational photography. The front-facing camera may also get a slight bump in quality, catering to the ever-growing demand for better selfies and clearer video calls.

Under the hood, the iPhone 17e is expected to sport Apple’s next-generation A19 processor, promising improved performance and efficiency. There’s also talk of a new C1 modem, which would enhance 5G connectivity and potentially extend battery life—a detail that remains unconfirmed but could be a significant draw for users seeking faster, more reliable connections. Additionally, speculation abounds about the inclusion of an ultra-wideband (UWB) chip, a feature that would enable Precision Finding for AirTags and other devices, something the iPhone 16e lacked. As Macworld reports, "the device may incorporate a next-generation C1 modem and possibly an ultra-wideband (UWB) chip for Precision Finding."

One area where the iPhone 17e may lag behind its more expensive siblings is display technology. While higher-end iPhones have embraced 120Hz ProMotion displays for smoother animations and always-on functionality, the 17e is rumored to stick with a 60Hz refresh rate. For many users upgrading from older models like the iPhone SE or iPhone 14, this may not be a dealbreaker, but it’s a reminder that the “e” series is designed to balance affordability with modern features.

Price is always a hot topic when it comes to Apple’s budget offerings. So far, there have been no credible leaks suggesting a price increase, with most sources expecting the iPhone 17e to launch at $599 for the 128GB base model—the same starting price as the iPhone 16e. This positions the 17e as a compelling entry point into the Apple ecosystem, especially now that it gains MagSafe and potentially other sought-after features. As MacDailyNews puts it, Apple is expected to "stick to $599 for the 'e is for entry-level' 128GB base model to keep the iPhone 17e as an accessible entry point into the ecosystem— even more appealing now that it gains MagSafe, addressing a major 16e drawback."

The shift to a twice-yearly iPhone release schedule—spring for the “e” series and fall for flagship models—appears to be more than a passing experiment. With the 16e and 17e both launching in February, Apple is giving users more frequent upgrade options and maintaining momentum in the competitive midrange market. According to Macworld, “Apple is establishing a twice-yearly iPhone release schedule with ‘e’ models launching in spring and flagship devices in fall.” Looking further ahead, some rumors suggest that Apple may even move to launch both the entry-level iPhone 18 and 18e in the first half of 2027, though those plans remain speculative.

Accessory makers are already gearing up, preparing cases and chargers based on leaked specs—a sign that the February 19 date has some credibility, even if Apple remains tight-lipped. The company’s penchant for secrecy hasn’t stopped the rumor mill, and the growing chorus of leaks from sources like The Information, 9to5Mac, and The Elec only adds fuel to the fire.

For users who found the iPhone 16e’s omissions puzzling—particularly the lack of MagSafe—the iPhone 17e could be the device that finally checks all the right boxes. It promises a blend of modern conveniences and familiar simplicity, all at a price that keeps it within reach for a wide audience. As always, the final word rests with Apple, and until the company makes an official announcement, everything is subject to change.

Still, if the leaks and rumors are any indication, Apple’s next entry-level iPhone is poised to deliver meaningful improvements without straying from the core values that have made the “e” series a popular choice. For now, all eyes are on February 19—and the next chapter in Apple’s evolving iPhone lineup.