Apple’s upcoming iPhone 17e is expected to bring a noticeable camera upgrade, according to a new research note from analyst Jeff Pu.
The entry-level model will reportedly feature the same 18MP front camera found on the rest of the iPhone 17 lineup.
Apple introduced the 18MP selfie camera with the iPhone 17 series, making it surprising to see the company extend this upgrade to its most affordable model so quickly.
The new camera uses a square sensor, which allows users to take vertical or horizontal selfies without rotating the phone.
Jeff Pu says the iPhone 17e will launch “in mid–first quarter 2026,” pointing to a February release window.
Alongside the improved front camera, the iPhone 17e will also get the A19 chip, the same processor used in the standard iPhone 17. This makes the chipset and front camera the biggest upgrades over its predecessor.