What Happened: It looks like Apple is planning a serious camera upgrade for its next budget-friendly phone, the iPhone 17e.
- According to a new report from analyst Jeff Pu, this upcoming model – which we expect to see in early 2026 – is going to get the exact same 18MP Center Stage front camera that just launched on the pricey iPhone 17 lineup.
- If you haven’t used it yet, this new camera is a big step up. It uses a special square sensor that lets you take photos or videos in portrait or landscape without awkwardly twisting your wrist. It also has that “Center Stage” magic that automatically zooms and pans to keep you in the frame during video calls.
- This is happening because Apple is shifting its release schedule. Instead of dropping everything in September, it’s moving some models to winter and spring releases. The 17e fits right into this new pattern.
Nirave Gondhia / Digital Trends
Why Is This Important: Historically, the “e” series (or SE, as it used to be known) always got the hand-me-down cameras. It was the place where old parts went to live.
- But putting this brand-new 18MP sensor into the 17e is a huge shift in strategy.
- Combined with the rumored A19 chip (the same brain as the standard iPhone 17), Apple is narrowing the gap between its cheapest phone and its flagships.
- It suggests Apple is trying to raise the baseline quality for its entire lineup, making the “budget” option feel a lot less… budget.
Nirave Gondhia / Digital Trends
Why Should I Care: If you’re someone who wants great selfies and video calls but hates the idea of spending $800+ on a phone, this is fantastic news.
- That Center Stage camera is a genuine quality-of-life upgrade. It makes Facetime calls feel way more natural and ensures your group selfies actually fit everyone in.
- Getting that kind of flagship feature on the most affordable iPhone makes the 17e a killer option for students, parents, or anyone who just wants a solid phone that takes great pictures of them.
What’s Next: We’re expecting the iPhone 17e to land in early 2026 (likely February).
- While it will probably still stick to a single camera on the back and skip the fancy 120Hz screen to save costs, Apple seems determined to pack serious value into it this time.
- As we head into late 2025, keep an eye out for more leaks. With Apple now staggering its launches, this new spring release could totally redefine what we expect from a “cheap” iPhone.
