Apple has unveiled the iPhone 17e, a significant upgrade to its most affordable smartphone, now available for pre-order in the UK with compelling deals starting from just £28.99 per month. This launch marks a bumper week for the tech giant, bringing premium features to a budget-friendly device.
Key Features and Specifications
The iPhone 17e retains a familiar exterior with the classic display notch, similar to the iPhone 14 and iPhone 16e, but packs a powerful internal overhaul. It is equipped with the latest A19 processor, identical to the standard iPhone 17, ensuring top-tier performance. Additionally, it includes the new C1X cellular modem, first seen on the iPhone Air, which promises twice the speed and improved efficiency over previous models.
A major highlight is the introduction of MagSafe support, enabling 15W wireless charging and access to a wide range of magnetic accessories. This feature has been long-awaited by budget iPhone users. The phone features a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, enhanced with Apple's tougher Ceramic Shield 2 on the front and an aluminium frame for increased durability.
Camera and Battery Life
On the rear, the iPhone 17e sports a single 48MP fusion camera with optical 2x zoom, supported by improved image processing for better photo quality. The front houses a 12MP camera for selfies and Face ID. While wireless charging is limited to 15W via Qi2, rather than the 25W found in the regular iPhone 17, the inclusion of MagSafe is a notable advancement. The efficient A19 chip also contributes to longer battery life on a single charge.
Pricing and Availability
Pre-orders for the iPhone 17e opened on Wednesday, 4 March 2026, at 2:15 PM GMT, with general sales commencing on Wednesday, 11 March. The handset is available in two storage options: a 256GB model starting at £599 and a 512GB model at £799. Colour choices include white, black, and soft pink.
Best Pre-Order Deals in the UK
Several attractive contract deals are available for the iPhone 17e, offering substantial value for consumers.
- Carphone Warehouse with iD Mobile: This 24-month contract includes 100GB of data for £28.99 per month with a £9 upfront fee. Over the contract, the total cost is just over £700, effectively making the airtime plan about £4.50 per month after subtracting the phone's retail price. An extra £50 is offered for trading in an iPhone XS or later.
- Carphone Warehouse with Vodafone: For £32 per month and a £9 upfront fee, this deal provides 100GB of 5G data. Over 24 months, the total cost is under £800, equating to roughly £7.50 per month for the data plan alone.
- Mobile Phones Direct with O2: This 36-month contract offers 400GB of monthly data for £33 per month with a £19 upfront fee. It includes bonuses like a free case of wine, a cafetière, and an Amazon Prime Video trial. The airtime cost works out to approximately £17 per month, making it a solid option for high-data users.
These deals highlight the iPhone 17e as a cost-effective choice, blending advanced technology with affordable pricing. For more options, consumers can also explore pre-order deals for other devices like the Samsung Galaxy S26.
