Are you in the market for a compact, affordably priced iPhone without sacrificing quality? The iPhone 17e might be exactly what you’re looking for in 2026. Unlike the trend of ever-larger phones, the iPhone 17e appears ready to embrace a smaller form factor combined with smart new features, making it an enticing choice for fans of compact devices.
The Return of the Compact iPhone
While flagship models like the iPhone 17 have grown to a sizeable 6.3-inch display, the iPhone 17e is rumored to maintain a smaller screen around 6.1 inches, similar to the iPhone 16e. This size hits the sweet spot for users looking for ease of use and pocket-friendly dimensions. Apple’s previous attempts at slim, light phones such as the iPhone Air pushed screen sizes to 6.5 inches, which many don’t consider truly compact.
Compact Design with Modern Touches
The 17e is expected to borrow design elements from the iPhone 15, sporting more comfortable tapered edges instead of the boxier silhouette found on older models like the iPhone 14. While it likely won’t feature premium materials reserved for Pro versions, the emphasis on clean, familiar, and functional design fits well with its allusion to “e” model affordability and simplicity.
Features Tailored for Convenience
A standout rumored feature for the iPhone 17e is the inclusion of a Center Stage selfie camera. This new tech lets users take landscape selfies by simply holding the phone vertically, making it super convenient for everyday use. This little upgrade shows Apple’s commitment to enhancing user experience even in its more budget-conscious lineup.
Filling a Unique Niche
With most phones continuously growing in size, the iPhone 17e fills an important market gap — the compact smartphone segment. For users wanting a smaller, practical device without the hefty flagship price tag, the 17e could become the only viable Apple option.
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Looking for alternatives? Check out our lists of the best Android phones and best foldables if you want something different, or explore best compact phones to compare.
At its core, the iPhone 17e isn’t meant to be flashy. Instead, it champions restraint and usability in a market obsessed with bigger and more elaborate smartphones. In 2026, this approach might just be Apple’s winning hand for those who value compactness above all.
