In a surprise move for budget-conscious Apple fans, the upcoming iPhone 17e is rumored to feature an 18MP Center Stage front camera – a high-end upgrade typically reserved for the pricier iPhone 17 series. According to fresh leaks from analyst Jeff Pu, this entry-level model will bring premium selfie capabilities to the masses, launching as early as February 2026.
The iPhone 17e, positioned as Apple’s most accessible smartphone in the 2026 lineup, won’t skimp on camera tech. The new 18MP selfie sensor introduces a square design that allows effortless switching between portrait and landscape modes without rotating the device. It also includes AI-powered Center Stage, which automatically expands the field of view to capture group shots seamlessly – perfect for social media reels, video calls, or casual portraits. This marks a significant leap from the 12MP front camera in predecessors like the iPhone 16e, delivering sharper details, better low-light performance, and more dynamic framing.
On the backend, expect a single 48MP Fusion main rear camera with familiar features like Night Mode, Deep Fusion, and 2x digital zoom – solid for everyday photography without the multi-lens complexity of Pro models. Powering it all is the A19 chip, the same Bionic processor found in the iPhone 17, promising snappier multitasking, enhanced gaming, and improved battery efficiency. Design-wise, the iPhone 17e ditches the outdated notch for Dynamic Island, giving it a modern iPhone 15-inspired look with a polished aluminum frame and Ceramic Shield protection.
Priced starting at around $599 for the 128GB variant, the iPhone 17e targets users seeking flagship performance on a budget. It retains 8GB of RAM and standard connectivity like sub-6GHz 5G and Wi-Fi 6, but skips advanced modems like the C1X found in higher-end models. Storage options are expected to go up to 512GB, making it versatile for content creators and casual users alike.
This refresh comes hot on the heels of the iPhone 17’s fall 2025 debut, where the entire lineup adopted the 18MP selfie camera as a universal upgrade. Apple rarely trickles down such features to its “e” series so quickly, signaling a push to compete in the value smartphone market against rivals like Samsung’s Galaxy A-series.
While Apple hasn’t commented on the rumors, the iPhone 17e could redefine entry-level iPhones by blending affordability with pro-grade selfies. Mark your calendars for mid-Q1 2026 – this might just be the steal of the year for selfie enthusiasts. Stay tuned for more updates as supply chain whispers turn into official announcements.
Read More : Apple May Launch iPhone Air 2 and 20th-Anniversary iPhone In 2027
