Apple iPhone 17e: Leaker shares expectations for new budget iPhone launch following iPhone 16e failure

In recent years, Apple has struggled to find a commercially successful alternative iPhone to its base, Pro and Pro Max segments. Since the iPhone 11 series debuted in 2019, Apple has experimented with 'mini' and 'Plus' models. With both of these variants proving comparatively unpopular, Apple has now pivoted to the iPhone Air, which is falling so far short of expectations that Apple is allegedly considering postponing the iPhone Air 2.

According to Fixed Focus Digital, the iPhone 16e can now be added to the list of Apple's commercial failures (curr. $389 on Amazon). Although the popular Weibo account has not provided any clarity in this regard, Counterpoint Research found earlier this year that iPhone 16e sales were falling short of prior iPhone SE models. Citing a high launch price as one of the reasons behind poor sales, Counterpoint Research added that the iPhone 16e accounted for a mere 8% of Apple's sales during its first full month of being available.

With all that mind, Fixed Focus Digital reports that Apple remains on track to launch the iPhone 17e. If the company's past behaviour is anything to go by, then the iPhone 'e' will only receive one more chance at selling well before being shelved. Currently, Fixed Focus Digital expects Apple to launch the iPhone 17e in spring 2026, with the iPhone Air 2 remaining delayed for the time being.