Apple launches lower cost iPhone 17e and a new iPad Air powered by its M4 chip

Apple kicked off its latest wave of product announcements on Monday with the introduction of an economical iPhone and an upgraded iPad Air. The spotlight is on the newly launched iPhone 17e, which joins the iPhone 17 lineup as a budget-friendly option starting at $599, undercutting the standard iPhone 17 priced at $799. This latest model retains the popular 6.1-inch display size but boasts improved durability with tougher glass. It is equipped with Apple’s A19 chip and the advanced C1X modem, along with MagSafe charging capabilities. Notably, the 17e offers a starting storage capacity of 256GB, doubling that of its predecessor. Consumers will have the choice of colors, including pink, black, and white, with pre-orders set to begin on March 4 and retail availability starting on March 11. In addition to the iPhone, Apple has also refreshed the iPad Air, which continues with its existing design and price points. The 11-inch variant remains at $599, while the 13-inch model stays priced at $799. The significant upgrade lies in the transition from the M3 chip to the new M4 chip, which Apple claims delivers up to 30% improved performance compared to the previous generation. With a series of product launches planned for the coming days, Apple is preparing for a significant influx of customers, according to Bloomberg reports.