Apple May Have Already Started Developing the iPhone 17e

Apple appears to be planning an annual release cycle for its iPhone "e" series, as a new leak suggests that development for the iPhone 17e is already underway.

In a recent post on Weibo, leaker Fixed Focus Digital—who correctly predicted the launch of the iPhone 16e—shared that a new project codename has surfaced, believed to be linked to the next-generation iPhone 17e.

What This Means for Apple's iPhone Lineup

The iPhone 16e, set to release on February 28, is marketed as a more affordable, streamlined version of the iPhone 16. It features a full-screen design, a toned-down A18 chip, and Apple’s in-house developed baseband—making it a strong choice for budget-conscious consumers.

If Apple sees success with the iPhone 16e, it would make sense for the company to adopt an annual spring release cycle for the "e" model. This strategy would:

• Keep excitement alive for new iPhone launches mid-cycle
• Offer a budget-friendly alternative to the fall lineup
• Help boost sales across all iPhone models

A Closer Look at the iPhone 16e

The iPhone 16e has been positioned as the "youth version" of the iPhone 16, offering premium Apple features at a lower price point. Early reviews dropped last night, giving consumers a first look at the device’s performance, display, and overall value.

To check out what reviewers are saying, take a look at our iPhone 16e Review Roundup here:
● New iPhone 16e Review Roundup

What to Expect from the iPhone 17e

While no official details have surfaced yet, we can expect the iPhone 17e to continue in the same direction as its predecessor. If Apple keeps the same design philosophy, the 17e may feature:

• A refined A19 chip
• Continued cost savings with a mix of new and previous-gen hardware
• Potential improvements in battery life and connectivity

Apple’s approach to budget-friendly iPhones could prove to be a smart move, helping the company attract a wider audience while keeping its product lineup fresh throughout the year. If the iPhone 16e proves successful, we may see "e" models become a permanent fixture in Apple’s annual release cycle.