Apple is preparing for its first iPhone launch of 2026 with the alleged iPhone 17e. This device will be the second device in the affordable iPhone e series of the Cupertino giant. Ahead of its alleged release, leaks have emerged indicating last-minute changes to the iPhone 17e. The affordable iPhone, which was previously expected to use the same A19 chip from the vanilla iPhone 17, is now believed to use a downclocked version of the processor. Here’s what that means for you.

Why would Apple use a downgraded A19 chip in the iPhone 17e?

According to tipster Smart Pikachu on Weibo, Apple may use a downclocked version of the A19 chipset in the iPhone 17e. Although we don’t know the official reason behind such a move, it would not only save costs but also give the affordable iPhone a better differentiation from its more expensive counterparts.

How will the downgraded A19 chip affect performance?

If the leak is accurate, you can expect the iPhone 17e to be less powerful than the base iPhone 17. However, the A19 chipset is still one of the most powerful processors out there, and even a downclocked version would still be quite capable. The real-world performance of the iPhone 17e with this chipset is said to be similar to the iPhone 15 Pro, which used the A17 Pro. Thus, in daily use, you will hardly notice any difference compared to the iPhone 17.

The iPhone 17e will likely offer better performance and efficiency compared to the iPhone 16e.

Will the iPhone 17e still support iOS 26?

Yes, the iPhone 17e is expected to launch on Apple’s latest iOS version – iOS 26. The device will likely pack all the latest iOS features and themes, including Liquid Glass. You can also expect the iPhone 17e to support Apple Intelligence like its predecessor.

The iPhone 17e is said to be set to enter mass production in the coming days, rumored to be launched in February. Although we don’t know the official price of the device, Apple may keep it similar to the iPhone 16e, which was launched in India for Rs 59,900.