iPhone 17e

Apple just dropped the iPhone 17e — the new budget entry point for the iPhone 17 lineup. At $599 for 256GB (double the storage of last year's iPhone 16e at the same price), it's a solid upgrade for anyone holding onto an older iPhone or switching from Android.

The iPhone 17e features Apple's A19 chip (one generation behind the A19 Pro in the 17 Pro models), which is still blazing fast for everyday tasks, gaming, and photography. It also introduces Apple's new C1X cellular modem, the company's first in-house 5G chip — promising better power efficiency and coverage.

The design is familiar but refined: a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display with a notch (no Dynamic Island here), aluminum frame, and ceramic shield glass. It's available in three colors: black, white, and pink. The pink is a standout — subtle but eye-catching.

Camera-wise, you get a 48MP main sensor (up from 12MP on the 16e) with computational photography features like Night mode, Smart HDR, and Photonic Engine. The front-facing camera is 12MP with Face ID support. Video recording tops out at 4K60 with Cinematic mode.

Battery life is solid — Apple claims all-day battery, and the A19 chip's efficiency should help. Charging options include 20W wired (50% in 30 minutes), 15W MagSafe wireless, and 7.5W Qi wireless.

At $599, the iPhone 17e undercuts most flagship Android phones while delivering the Apple ecosystem advantage. The only real compromises are the 60Hz display (no ProMotion) and the lack of a telephoto lens.

If you've been waiting for an affordable iPhone with modern specs and plenty of storage, this is it.