Apple is expected to launch its next budget offering, the iPhone 17e, in the coming weeks, and the rumor mill is predictably gaining steam, with the latest report disclosing some design changes and component upgrades sans the much-vaunted display upgrade.

The Weibo-based tipster Digital Chat Station is out with another tidbit today, noting that the upcoming Apple iPhone 17e, which is expected to launch in the spring of 2026, is expected to retain a 6.1-inch LTPS (low-temperature polycrystalline silicon) OLED screen with a disappointing 60Hz refresh rate.

Do note that the base iPhone 17 now features a ProMotion display with a 120Hz refresh rate that makes for a superior scrolling and visual experience.

Of course, Apple's upcoming budget offering is finally jettisoning the aged notch for the Dynamic Island, unifying the design language across the entire iPhone lineup.

Also, the iPhone 17e will be powered by the A19 chip that is around 5-10 percent faster than the A18 chip in the iPhone 16e.

Do note that the iPhone 17e has likely entered its mass production phase given the fact that recent reports indicated that Apple's upcoming budget offering would do so after the conclusion of the CES 2026 in early January .

Moreover, the iPhone 17e is expected to feature the C1-series modem, sans the N1 chip. The budget offering from Apple is also expected to sport "magnetic wireless charging ," a 12MP selfie camera, a Face ID module, and a 48MP rear camera.

Finally, Apple is expected to price the iPhone 17e at the same $599 price of the iPhone 16e, but could further sweeten the deal by upgrading the base storage to 256GB.

Follow to get more of our news coverage in your feeds.