iPhone 17e leak reveals spring 2026 release window

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Apple is reportedly preparing the iPhone 17e, a possible follow-up to its recent budget-friendly model, the iPhone 16e. 

According to a reliable leaker, Fixed Focus Digital on Weibo, Apple has already begun early production planning for the device, with trial production, a small-scale test phase, nearly underway. 

If true, the iPhone 17e could be released next year, suggesting Apple may be moving toward an annual release cycle for this more affordable iPhone line.

The iPhone 16e made waves by offering solid performance at a lower price, gaining popularity among budget-conscious Apple users. 

This success sparked questions: Was the iPhone 16e a one-time experiment, or the start of a new line? 

Based on current leaks, it looks like Apple is leaning toward the latter, with the iPhone 17e appearing to be on track for a 2025 release.

The iPhone 16e’s place in Apple’s lineup has been a bit of a puzzle. It replaced the iPhone SE, Apple’s previous budget option, but unlike the iPhone SE, it was officially part of the iPhone 16 series.

This made some expect it would follow the same yearly release rhythm as the flagship iPhones. 

However, the iPhone SE had its own irregular update cycle, leading to uncertainty about what to expect from the 16e going forward.

Now, with news of the iPhone 17e’s development, it seems Apple may be planning to stick with an annual update, though that’s not guaranteed. 

The leaker who shared the update cautioned that plans could still change, and long-term decisions will likely depend on how well the iPhone 16e sells.

As noted by Digital Trends, if trial production goes smoothly and the iPhone 16e continues to perform well in the market, the iPhone 17e could be part of a new, consistent release schedule for Apple’s budget smartphones. 

However, whether that will extend to a future “iPhone 18e” remains to be seen.

Are you looking forward to the iPhone 17e? Anything you think Apple needs to drastically improve over the 16e? Tell us what you think in the comments below, or via our Twitter or Facebook.