iPhone 17e and iPad 12: What the Latest Reports Reveal
Fresh reports from Japanese publication Mac Otakara suggest that Apple is preparing to introduce the iPhone 17e and iPad 12 within the next few months. While neither device is expected to undergo a dramatic redesign, both appear set to receive meaningful internal upgrades.
Let’s break down what’s reportedly coming.
iPhone 17e: A Familiar Look With Smarter Internals
When Apple discontinued the iPhone SE in early 2025 and introduced the iPhone 16e, it marked a new direction for the company’s entry-level lineup. Now, the iPhone 17e is expected to build on that foundation rather than reinvent it.
According to the report, the iPhone 17e will retain the same overall design as the iPhone 16e, including a traditional notch instead of the Dynamic Island. Some earlier rumors hinted at a display change, but this latest information suggests the notch is here to stay.
Expected Upgrades for iPhone 17e
Here are the three major improvements reportedly coming:
A19 Chip
The iPhone 17e is expected to run on Apple’s new A19 chip, offering better performance and improved power efficiency compared to the A18 chip in the iPhone 16e.
C1X Modem
Apple’s second-generation C1X modem is said to deliver up to twice the speed of the original C1 modem, while also improving energy efficiency for 5G and LTE connectivity.
N1 Network Chip
Like the iPhone Air, the iPhone 17e may include Apple’s N1 chip for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Thread connectivity. In other devices, this chip supports Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6, while improving reliability for features like AirDrop and Personal Hotspot.
MagSafe Returns to the Entry-Level iPhone
A separate report from Macwelt claims Apple could announce the iPhone 17e on February 19, possibly via press release. While Thursday launches are uncommon for Apple, the date would align exactly one year after the iPhone 16e debut.
One major change expected this time around is the return of MagSafe. Unlike the iPhone 16e, which was limited to standard Qi wireless charging at 7.5W, the iPhone 17e is rumored to support 20W to 25W magnetic wireless charging. This would also allow users to attach accessories like Apple’s MagSafe Wallet.
The device is still expected to feature a single rear camera, maintaining its straightforward design philosophy.
iPad 12: A Subtle Performance Boost
The same report suggests the upcoming iPad 12 will closely resemble the iPad 11 in design. The main difference will likely be the addition of an A18 chip, bringing support for Apple Intelligence features.
With the A18 chip, the iPad 12 is expected to include 8GB of RAM, up from 6GB in its predecessor. This upgrade would enhance multitasking and future-proof the tablet for software updates.
Planning Your Upgrade and Data Transfer
Whether upgrading to the iPhone 17e or switching to a new iPad, preparing your data in advance can make the process smoother. Apple provides built-in tools to help users move to iOS, but many people prefer having additional flexibility when transferring apps, files, and personal data.
This is where Smart Transfer, a third-party file sharing app, becomes useful. Smart Transfer allows users to wirelessly move content between devices, making it easier to share apps, photos, contacts, and documents during setup. For users switching ecosystems or upgrading multiple devices at once, having a reliable transfer option can simplify the entire transition.
What About Pricing?
The iPhone 16e launched in the United States starting at $599. While there is no confirmed pricing yet for the iPhone 17e, Apple is expected to maintain a similar entry-level positioning to remain competitive.
Until Apple makes an official announcement, all details remain subject to change. Still, based on current reports, the iPhone 17e and iPad 12 appear to focus on internal refinement rather than visual redesign.
Final Thoughts
The iPhone 17e looks set to deliver smarter performance, faster connectivity, and the welcome return of MagSafe, all while keeping a familiar design. Meanwhile, the iPad 12 aims to strengthen Apple’s mid-range tablet offering with upgraded processing power.
If these reports hold true, Apple’s early 2026 lineup will be about polish and reliability rather than dramatic transformation.

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