iPhone 17e to Fix Major Wireless Charging Limitation of Current Model

Apple’s upcoming iPhone 17e will reportedly add a key feature missing from its predecessor. According to a new report from The Information, the next-generation entry-level iPhone will support MagSafe wireless charging. This addresses a significant limitation of the current iPhone 16e model.

The iPhone 16e, launched earlier this year, is limited to standard Qi wireless charging. This omission has been a point of criticism for the budget-friendly device. The new MagSafe capability would be a major upgrade for users.

MagSafe and Modern Connectivity Coming to Budget iPhone

The new report is specific. It states the iPhone 17e will support “magnetic wireless charging.” This confirms the integration of Apple’s proprietary MagSafe ecosystem. MagSafe allows for faster, more secure charging up to 15W.

It also enables a wide range of magnetic accessories. The current iPhone 16e is restricted to slower Qi charging at 7.5W. The upgrade will significantly improve the user experience for budget-conscious buyers.

The report also notes a modem upgrade. The iPhone 17e will feature Apple’s second-generation C1X cellular modem. This should provide improved connectivity and efficiency over the first-gen chip in the iPhone 16e.

A Strategic Incremental Upgrade for Spring 2026

Apple is targeting a spring 2026 release for the iPhone 17e. Analysts view the device as an incremental update over the current model. The core upgrades appear focused on connectivity and charging.

This strategy helps maintain a compelling entry point into the iPhone ecosystem. Adding MagSafe aligns the budget model more closely with Apple’s premium offerings. It enhances accessory compatibility across the entire iPhone lineup.

The starting price is expected to remain competitive. The iPhone 16e currently starts at $599 in the United States. Maintaining this price point with new features would strengthen its market position.

The addition of MagSafe charging to the iPhone 17e represents a direct response to user feedback. It fixes the most notable hardware shortcoming of the popular budget model. This move will likely make the next affordable iPhone a more versatile and attractive option.

Info at your fingertips

What is MagSafe charging?

MagSafe is Apple’s magnetic wireless charging system. It uses magnets to align the iPhone perfectly with a charger or accessory. This allows for faster charging speeds and a secure connection.

What charging does the iPhone 16e have now?

The iPhone 16e only supports standard Qi wireless charging. This is slower than MagSafe and is not magnetic. The device is also limited to a maximum of 7.5W charging speed.

When will the iPhone 17e be released?

Based on the report, Apple is expected to release the iPhone 17e in the spring of 2026. This follows the typical release pattern for this entry-level series.

Will the iPhone 17e have a better modem?

Yes. The report states it will use Apple’s second-generation C1X modem. This should offer better cellular performance and battery efficiency than the current model.

Why is adding MagSafe a big deal?

It brings the budget iPhone into Apple’s full accessory ecosystem. Users gain access to a wide range of magnetic wallets, chargers, and stands. It also future-proofs the device with faster charging technology.