tech

iPhone 17e review: Apple upgrades its cheapest new smartphone

Mid-range handset gets chip, storage and MagSafe upgrades to offer more essential iOS features for less

iPhone 17e review: Apple upgrades its cheapest new smartphone

TL;DR

  • The iPhone 17e is the cheapest new iPhone from Apple, starting at £599.
  • It features an upgraded A19 chip, double storage (256GB standard), and MagSafe compatibility.
  • The design is similar to the iPhone 14, with a 6.1-inch OLED screen and Ceramic Shield 2 glass.
  • Battery life is strong, lasting approximately 52 hours with general usage.
  • The 48MP rear camera captures good photos and now includes automatic portrait mode.
  • It lacks advanced features such as Wi-Fi 7, Thread, and Ultra Wideband (UWB).
  • The phone received a 7/10 repairability score from iFixit and contains over 30% recycled material.
  • The single rear camera limits photographic versatility, lacking ultrawide, telephoto, and macro modes.