Apple Unveils iPhone 17e in India with Enhanced Features and Higher Price
Apple has officially launched the iPhone 17e, positioning it as the most affordable model in the iPhone 17 series while introducing significant upgrades. In India, the device is priced at Rs 64,900, marking a Rs 5,000 increase compared to last year's starting price for the iPhone 16e. However, this higher cost is offset by a substantial improvement in base storage, which has been doubled to 256GB.
Key Upgrades: MagSafe, A19 Chip, and Expanded Storage
One of the most notable enhancements in the iPhone 17e is the inclusion of MagSafe with Qi2 wireless charging support, capable of delivering up to 15W—double the 7.5W wireless charging available on the iPhone 16e. Additionally, the phone supports fast wired charging via USB-C, with Apple claiming that a 20W or higher adapter can achieve up to 50 percent charge in approximately 30 minutes.
Powering the device is Apple's current-generation A19 chip, built on a 3nm architecture. Apple asserts that this chip offers up to twice the CPU performance compared to the iPhone 11, along with improved power efficiency. The new C1X modem is also featured, claimed to be up to two times faster and more energy-efficient than its predecessor, contributing to an all-day battery life rated at up to 26 hours of video playback.
Storage has been significantly upgraded, with the base model now offering 256GB, a jump from the 128GB available on the iPhone 16e. For users needing more space, a 512GB option is available at Rs 84,999, which is Rs 20,000 higher than the base price.
Design and Display: Familiar Yet Refined
The iPhone 17e retains a familiar design, featuring an aerospace-grade aluminium frame and an IP68 dust and water resistance rating. It sports a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with up to 1200 nits peak HDR brightness, now protected by Ceramic Shield 2 for enhanced scratch resistance and reduced glare. However, the display continues with a 60Hz refresh rate, lacking the ProMotion technology found in higher-end models.
Camera System: 48MP Fusion with Advanced Features
The camera system sees a major upgrade with the introduction of a 48MP Fusion camera, enabling high-resolution shots and an optical-quality 2x telephoto function—effectively providing two cameras in one. Users can capture images at the full 48MP resolution or use the default 24MP setting for a balance of detail and file size.
Portrait mode has been enhanced with next-generation depth capture that automatically works on people, dogs, and cats, allowing users to add background blur after taking a shot. Video recording capabilities include 4K Dolby Vision at 60fps, complemented by Spatial Audio and wind noise reduction features.
Additional Features and Availability
The iPhone 17e includes satellite features such as Emergency SOS, Roadside Assistance, and Messages via satellite. The Find My app now allows users to share their location via satellite, which is particularly useful when traveling off the grid.
Pre-orders for the iPhone 17e will open on March 4, with the phone going on sale from March 11. It is available in three colour options: black, white, and a new soft pink finish.
This launch underscores Apple's strategy to bring premium features to its more accessible models, catering to a broader audience in the competitive smartphone market.
