Apple’s new iPhone 17e has an A19 chip, MagSafe, and 256GB of storage for $599

In a surprising move, Apple has decided to expand its iPhone lineup with the introduction of the iPhone 17e, marking the second consecutive year that the tech giant has released a new model in March. This latest addition replaces the iPhone 16e and will be available for pre-order starting March 4, with official sales commencing on March 11 at a price of $599. The iPhone 17e is powered by the Apple A19 chip, which shares similarities with the chip found in the more premium iPhone 17. While both models feature six CPU cores, the 17e is equipped with four GPU cores compared to the five in its pricier counterpart. Additionally, the device sees improvements in its cellular modem, transitioning from the original Apple C1 to the faster Apple C1X, enhancing connectivity speeds. Furthermore, the iPhone 17e boasts an 8GB RAM capacity, aligning it with the specifications of the iPhone 17, thanks to its support for Apple Intelligence. Apple has also introduced a new Ceramic Shield 2 front glass, which is expected to offer improved durability and a display coating that is three times more resistant to scratches than that of the iPhone 16e, while also minimizing glare and reflections. Two standout features elevate the iPhone 17e’s appeal: the inclusion of MagSafe charging, previously missing from the iPhone 16e, and a significant storage upgrade from 128GB to 256GB in the base version. This enhancement makes the iPhone 17e a compelling option for consumers at its $599 price point. For those seeking additional space, a 512GB variant will also be available for $799.