The iPhone 17e is here, and it solves the iPhone 16e’s biggest problem – 9to5Mac

Apple announced the iPhone 17e today with a number of major updates, including increased core space, the A19 chip and the C1X modem.

For me, however, one update stands out from the rest: MagSafe.

Best iPhone 17e update: MagSafe

I never understood why Apple decided MagSafe was a smart feature to remove from the iPhone 16e. I understand making compromises and balancing compromises with keeping the price down. MagSafe, however, is such a large part of the iPhone ecosystem and not offering it on the iPhone 16e felt punitive.

For example, imagine an iPhone 12 user who wanted to upgrade to the iPhone 16e. If that person already had an ecosystem of MagSafe accessories (like a charger, wallet, and car mount), all those accessories would be useless with newer ones iPhone 16e. It just never made sense.

Fortunately, that has changed. iPhone 17e it still has its limitationsbut I think it’s a much more compelling option than its predecessor — especially when you consider that you get twice the storage for the same $599 starting price.

I’m honestly not sure if this is more praise for the iPhone 17e or more of an indictment of the iPhone 16e. However, I’m glad I won’t have to point out this limitation when people ask me if they should buy the iPhone 17e.

What do you think of the value proposition of the iPhone 17e? Tell us below in the comments.

Must-have MagSafe accessories for your iPhone:

Follow Chance: fibers, Bluesky, InstagramAND Mastodon.