Preorders are now live for Apple's iPhone 17E budget smartphone, launching March 11 at $599. Following its March 2 announcement, early reviews praise its value with MagSafe, 256GB storage, and A19 chip, while noting 60Hz display and single-camera limits compared to pricier iPhone 17 or rivals like Pixel 10a.
Building on the iPhone 17E announcement last week—which detailed its A19 chip (six-core CPU, quad-core GPU), C1X modem, 15W MagSafe, Ceramic Shield 2 display, 48MP rear camera, and iOS 26 support—the device is now available for preorder ahead of its March 11 store launch. This annual update to the budget line (after 2025's iPhone 16E) undercuts the iPhone 17 by $200, targeting ecosystem newcomers or everyday users for tasks like email, social media, and light photo editing.
Reviewers highlight strong value for basic needs, with the 6.1-inch 60Hz OLED (1,200 nits HDR, notch design) offering solid protection but lagging behind Dynamic Island models. The single 48MP rear camera excels in portraits (natural bokeh for people/pets, post-editing) and 2x telephoto via crop, paired with a 12MP front camera sans Center Stage. Battery lasts up to 26 hours video playback (4,005 mAh), matching the predecessor, aided by efficient modem and USB-C (50% in 30 min).
At 169g (5.78 x 2.82 x 0.31 inches), it includes the Action button for AI features like image cleanup, Emergency SOS satellite, but skips ultra-wideband for AirTags, ultrawide lens, ProMotion, and always-on display. Colors: black, white, soft pink (matte glass back). Upgraders from iPhone 11/12/SE see big leaps; iPhone 16E owners may find increments minor. Critics call the 60Hz screen and solo camera outdated vs. $499 Pixel 10a, but praise accessibility.