It's been a great time for the iPhone. In September of last year, Apple released the new iPhone 17, which is easy to recommend thanks to its improved ProMotion display, extra space, and powerful A19 chip that handles tasks with ease.
A super-thin iPhone Air and 17 Pro with a striking Cosmic Orange design also attracted attention, creating one of Apple's strongest lineups in recent years.
Now the American company is back with another update for the iPhone, and the iPhone 17e is another pleasant surprise.
I've been testing it since its introduction in March, and it addresses many of the criticisms I had about its predecessor, the iPhone 16e, released in February last year.
At a reasonable price of £599, you now get a phone with a faster A19 processor, a brighter 6.1-inch display with Ceramic Shield Glass 2, and double the storage – 256GB standard.
One of the improvements that pleased me the most is the inclusion of MagSafe technology, which was missing from the 16e. Now, in addition to facilitating wireless charging, MagSafe also allows accessories, such as wallets, to be attached to the back of the phone.
Apple's C1X modem also delivers twice the mobile download speed while consuming less power — ideal for watching movies or downloading files off Wi-Fi. Like the 16e, the 17e can send messages without a signal via satellite and includes Crash Detection, which calls emergency services after an accident.
The single Fusion rear camera takes good photos and has features like 2X zoom, portrait mode, and low-light settings. For video, the 17e records in 4K, offers Spatial Audio, Noise Reduction, and an Audio Mix function for a more cinematic effect.
The camera can't rival the power of the iPhone 17 Pro, but as the test photos show, it produces beautiful, Instagram-ready images with good colors and detail.
The return of the customizable Action Button is also useful, allowing quick access to functions like the light or camera, without having to delve into lengthy menus.
Although it lacks Dynamic Island technology, Face ID works quickly and securely to unlock the phone, and you can use Apple Pay without a password. Battery life is satisfactory, and fast charging is always available.
Despite the lower price, the 17e has Apple's premium feel thanks to its high-grade aluminum and frosted glass.
However, a few things are missing: the screen is only 60Hz, there's no wide-angle option, the zoom is limited to 2X "optical quality" and there's no dedicated photo button.
Apple has added a light pink color this year, but for more color options you have to pay for the iPhone 17 at £799.
Even the iPhone 16e is now £100 cheaper, but it's not worth buying, as it lacks the new improvements of the 17e.
Although £599 is not a cheap price, Apple usually retains the value of its devices better than Android competitors.
In conclusion, the iPhone 17 remains the best choice for a non-Pro smartphone, but the 17e is a solid option for those on a budget: fast, with MagSafe, more space, good battery, and a solid design that will last years in your pocket.
The iPhone lineup is stronger than ever, and users have tough choices to make at the famous Apple stores. /GazetaExpress/
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