Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 17e, a new entry-level model in its flagship lineup, at a special event on March 4, 2026, marking the company’s first major hardware launch of the year and introducing an affordable 2026 iPhone positioned between the standard iPhone 17 and the previous-generation iPhone 16e.

The iPhone 17e—also referred to in leaks as the successor to the iPhone 16e—aims to broaden Apple’s reach in the midrange segment while maintaining premium features and seamless integration with the iOS 19 ecosystem. Industry analysts and supply chain reports indicate the device will carry a starting price around $599, undercutting the standard iPhone 17 expected to launch in September 2026 at $799 or higher.

Leaked specifications, compiled from Weibo tipsters, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, and analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, point to a 6.1-inch OLED display with Dynamic Island (replacing the notch), powered by the A19 chip manufactured on a 3-nanometer process by TSMC. The device is rumored to feature 8GB of RAM—matching the iPhone 17 series—to support advanced Apple Intelligence features, including on-device generative AI tools introduced in iOS 18 and expanded in iOS 19.

Camera upgrades are anticipated to include a 48-megapixel main sensor with a new variable aperture system for better low-light performance and depth control, paired with a 12-megapixel ultra-wide lens. The front-facing camera is expected to remain at 12 megapixels but benefit from improved processing for selfies and video calls. The iPhone 17e is also rumored to include the Action Button, USB-C port, and a redesigned aluminum frame with enhanced durability.

Battery life is projected to improve significantly over the iPhone 16e, thanks to efficiency gains from the A19 chip and a larger internal battery. Leaks suggest up to 20-22 hours of video playback, positioning the model as a strong contender for users prioritizing longevity without the premium price of Pro variants.

Color options are expected to include classic tones—Black, White, Blue, Green, and Pink—with a potential deep red or burgundy finish tested internally for the 2026 lineup. The device will ship with iOS 19, featuring expanded Apple Intelligence capabilities, improved Siri conversational abilities, and enhanced privacy controls.

The March 4 event, dubbed “Spring Loaded” or a similar branding, is anticipated to focus on accessibility and affordability. Apple is expected to highlight the iPhone 17e alongside software updates for existing devices, potential new color variants for iPhone 16 models, and expanded Apple Intelligence availability in additional languages and regions. Some analysts speculate a low-cost iPad or Mac accessory could join the lineup, though the iPhone 17e remains the centerpiece.

The timing reflects Apple’s strategy to refresh its entry-level offerings mid-cycle, capitalizing on demand for 5G-capable, AI-ready devices at lower price points. The iPhone 17e is positioned to compete with Android midrange flagships from Samsung, Google, and Xiaomi, offering a balance of performance, ecosystem integration, and longevity through extended software support—likely seven years of major iOS updates.

Pre-order details have not been officially confirmed, but Apple typically opens reservations shortly after the event, with devices shipping within one to two weeks. Carriers and retailers, including Best Buy, Amazon, and Samsung’s competitors, are expected to offer trade-in credits, carrier deals, and bundled accessories to drive early adoption.

Analysts project the iPhone 17e could account for 15-20% of total iPhone 17-series shipments in calendar 2026, helping Apple maintain market share in price-sensitive regions like India, Southeast Asia, and Latin America. The model also addresses demand for a compact, powerful iPhone in markets where larger screens are less popular.

While official details remain under wraps—Apple rarely comments on unreleased products—leaks suggest the iPhone 17e will emphasize practical upgrades over flashy gimmicks. The smaller Dynamic Island, faster chip, improved camera, and longer battery life aim to deliver a refined experience at an accessible price, reinforcing Apple’s strategy of tiered offerings across the lineup.

As March 4 approaches, anticipation is building for Apple’s first major hardware announcement of 2026. The iPhone 17e launch could set the tone for the year, bridging the gap between entry-level and premium devices while expanding Apple Intelligence access to a broader audience.

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In a conversation with ET Now, Dipan Mehta, Director, Elixir Equities shared a constructive but selective outlook across sectors, expressing optimism on NBFCs and pharma, caution on metals, and a clear avoid stance on certain largecaps.

On the lending space, Mehta believes the clean-up in microfinance and MSME unsecured portfolios has strengthened the NBFC segment. “I think that for investors who want to buy lenders, NBFC is a great segment… a lot of NBFCs now have cleaned up their books… whatever the NPA they had are well behind them.”

He emphasised a preference for diversified lenders rather than niche players. “Our preference is for NBFCs which are doing multi-product… not just housing or automobile loans or microfinance or gold loan.” He cited Bajaj Finance, Chola and L&T Finance as preferred names, while disclosing investments in them.

Turning to solar equipment manufacturers, Mehta acknowledged that the bullish call has not played out immediately. “We have been very positive on all solar equipment manufacturing companies… that call is not proving right so far.” However, he maintained that long-term investors could benefit. “If you have a longer-term view… this is a nice sustainable compounding industry and can deliver good returns.” On the recently imposed 126% customs duty, he said, “This… will not impact India’s solar equipment industry to any major extent… Waaree included,” adding that valuations have turned attractive, even as he disclosed existing investments in the space.

On the underperformance of Reliance Industries, Mehta offered a structural explanation. “I have a different view and that is that it is slowly going to become a holding company.” He suggested that investors may be uncomfortable with the prospect of IPOs for Jio and retail without a clear vertical split. “We would have preferred a vertical split… given free shares to all the shareholders.” Until there is clarity on restructuring, he believes the stock could remain subdued, though he reiterated that it remains a great company.

In real estate, Mehta advised patience and selectivity, favouring larger developers with rental income streams. “I would prefer the larger ones, especially those which have got some annuity assets as well.” He referred to companies like Prestige and DLF as examples and added that investors should broadly focus on players with rental assets, given the supply of new listings and valuation adjustments underway.
On tobacco counters, particularly ITC Limited, his stance was unequivocal. “Yes, we have a view and it is an avoid. It is not an FMCG stock. It is a tobacco stock and it is valued accordingly.” He said growth visibility remains limited. “I do not see ITC growing at double digit type of growth rates in the foreseeable future.” Instead, his focus is on small and midcap companies with unique business models and more reasonable valuations after the recent correction.Discussing the GLP-1 opportunity in pharma, Mehta acknowledged its potential but warned about competition. “You are right, it is a good opportunity. But just too many players over there.” Even so, he remains constructive on the broader sector. “On the whole investors should be overweight pharma.” He noted that CDMO companies have seen sharp corrections and should be on investor watchlists for a potential turnaround.

On new-age digital firms such as Eternal, he said investor patience appears to be wearing thin. “Investors are losing patience… when they will turn to profitability.” However, he added, “We remain very positive on Eternal… we have a longer-term view,” signalling continued conviction despite volatility.

Finally, on metals, Mehta struck a cautious tone after a prolonged rally. “It is a cyclical industry and now it has been a great outperformer.” While he would remain invested, he is not keen on fresh entries at current levels. “At some point the cycle certainly will turn… right now I do not see the outperformance continuing.”

Overall, Mehta’s approach reflects a preference for diversified financials, an overweight stance on pharma, selective exposure in real estate and solar, caution in metals, and a clear avoidance of slow-growth largecaps — all anchored in a long-term investment perspective.