One more iPhone 17 model is coming, with big camera upgrade rumored

Apple has started shaking up its iPhone release schedule, shifting certain models out of the fall and into the following winter and spring. There’s an iPhone 17e expected to launch in early 2026, and the latest rumor indicates it will pack a big camera upgrade.

iPhone 17e might gain new 18MP Center Stage front camera

When Apple’s flagship iPhone 17 line arrived this fall, it came with a variety of camera improvements that varied by model.

But one common upgrade across all models was the new 18MP Center Stage front camera.

The new camera is a major improvement over previous iPhone models, letting you take selfies that fit everyone into the shot with zero effort on your part.

Apple added the Center Stage camera to its full flagship lineup: iPhone 17, iPhone Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max.

And according to a new report, it’s coming to the low-cost iPhone 17e too.

Analyst Jeff Pu, in a research note seen by 9to5Mac, says the iPhone 17e will launch “in mid-1Q26,” and one of its key improvements over the 16e will be the upgraded 18MP front camera.

This is a surprise move considering the low-cost ‘e’ line is also getting the iPhone 17’s A19 chip. Add in the new Center Stage front camera, and the number of differentiators between models shrinks.

The rear of the iPhone 17e is still expected to include only a single main camera. And it’s not likely to gain ProMotion support like the iPhone 17.

But the new 18MP Center Stage front camera sounds like a great addition for Apple’s lowest-cost model.

Are you surprised Apple might give the iPhone 17e the latest Center Stage front camera? Let us know in the comments.

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