Apple is preparing to strengthen its budget smartphone portfolio. According to the report of The Verge, the company may introduce iPhone 17e in March, which will be an upgraded version of the iPhone 16e released last year. The special thing is that despite the low price, it is expected to get flagship-level performance.
Latest A19 chip can be found in iPhone 17e
If leaks and reports are to be believed, the same A19 chipset can be given in iPhone 17e, which is being used in other models of iPhone 17 series. Despite rising component costs, Apple is likely to price it around $599 (approximately ₹50,000), making it the most affordable iPhone with premium features.
Possibility of getting in-house cellular chip for the first time
Apple can use its own cellular chip (modem) in the iPhone 17e. Till now the company was dependent on Qualcomm for this. Apart from this, the phone is also expected to have MagSafe wireless charging support, which will give it a distinct identity in the budget iPhone segment.
New iPad and iPad Air may also be launched in March event
Apple’s March event will not be limited to just iPhone. According to reports, the new base model iPad may come with A18 chip, which will have Apple Intelligence (AI) support. Apart from this, the new iPad Air may launch with M4 chip and OLED display.
Apple’s focus on emerging markets like India
According to the report, Apple believes that there is currently no tough competition in the price segment of around ₹ 50,000. There is little hope of a major upgrade in Google’s upcoming Pixel 10a. Whereas Samsung’s focus remains on premium smartphones. For this reason, Apple wants to present iPhone 17e as a strong option in emerging markets like India.
