Apple’s new “e” series seems to be part of a long-term strategy that could establish a strong foothold in the tech industry. According to a recent consumer report, the company is highly likely to release the iPhone 17e in 2025. This claim coincides with a credible leak indicating that references to the device have already been detected in China’s supply chain.
A report from Consumer Intelligence Research Partners (CIRP) suggests that Apple plans to launch affordable “e” models on an annual basis. Following this year’s introduction of the iPhone 16e, the iPhone 17e is expected to be announced in February next year.
This strategy closely resembles Google’s approach with the “a” models in its Pixel series, which focus on affordability and performance. Apple may aim to expand its product lineup by unveiling its main iPhone series in September and then introducing a more budget-friendly “e” model a few months later.
Adding further weight to this claim, new information from Apple’s supply chain suggests that the iPhone 17e is already in development. WeChat-based leak source Fixed Focus Digital has indicated that these details likely pertain to the upcoming model. This same source was the first to correctly predict the iPhone 16e’s name back in December 2024.
However, the future of this strategy largely depends on the sales performance of the iPhone 16e. Apple has a history of swiftly discontinuing models that fail to meet expectations. The cancellation of the iPhone “mini” series due to low consumer demand is a recent example. If the iPhone 16e receives a positive reception, the “e” series could very well become a long-term fixture in Apple’s lineup.