Apple’s iPhone 17e: Embracing Dynamic Island While Retaining 60Hz Display
Apple’s forthcoming iPhone 17e is poised to introduce the Dynamic Island feature, marking a significant design evolution from its predecessor, the iPhone 16e. This enhancement aligns the 17e with the aesthetic of higher-end models, offering users a more immersive interface.
The Dynamic Island, first unveiled in 2022, replaces the traditional notch with a versatile, interactive area that adapts to various notifications and activities. Its inclusion in the iPhone 17e signifies Apple’s commitment to bringing premium features to its more affordable lineup.
Despite this advancement, the iPhone 17e will maintain a 6.1-inch OLED display with a 60Hz refresh rate, mirroring the screen specifications of the iPhone 16e. This decision means the device will not support ProMotion technology, which offers adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz, nor will it feature an always-on display.
Under the hood, the iPhone 17e is expected to be powered by Apple’s A19 processor, promising enhanced performance over its predecessor. Benchmark tests indicate a substantial improvement, with the iPhone 17 scoring 37,014 in Geekbench 6’s Metal testing, compared to the iPhone 16e’s 22,478. However, the absence of a higher refresh rate may affect the perceived smoothness during regular use.
The leaker Digital Chat Station, who has a mixed track record regarding Apple predictions, suggests that the iPhone 17e will retain the same screen as the iPhone 16e, with the notable addition of the Dynamic Island. This aligns with previous reports indicating that the device will not receive ProMotion support.
As for other features, there is no confirmation on whether the iPhone 17e will incorporate MagSafe technology, a magnetic attachment system introduced in earlier iPhone models. Users have expressed interest in this feature, but current leaks do not provide clarity on its inclusion.
Apple is anticipated to announce the iPhone 17e in the near future, potentially as early as February 2026. This timeline is consistent with previous release patterns for the company’s more budget-friendly models.
