- The iPhone 17e display details confirm slimmer bezels while keeping the same LTPS OLED panel used in the 16e.
- BOE secures most of the display orders for the 17e, supported by Samsung and LG to maintain stable panel supply.
- Apple aims for around 8 million units in early 2026, showing strong confidence in the refreshed budget model.
A new report out of South Korea offers an early preview of what Apple may be planning for the iPhone 17e, expected to launch in the first half of 2026. The update centers on the iPhone 17e display, and it seems Apple is working on refreshing the look of its budget-friendly model, without radically increasing production costs.
iPhone 17e leak points to slimmer bezels and new supply chain change
According to The Elec, Apple is preparing to shrink the bezels around the iPhone 17e’s display. It’s a small design tweak on paper, but even a slight reduction in the frame can make the phone look noticeably more modern. What makes this interesting is that Apple is reportedly keeping the same LTPS OLED panel used in the current iPhone 16e.
In other words, the internals of the screen may stay the same, but the refreshed front design could help the new model feel updated and more premium, without Apple having to redesign the hardware from the ground up.
LTPS OLED continues, likely at 60Hz
Despite recent trends toward high-refresh-rate displays, Apple appears to be sticking with LTPS OLED for the iPhone 17e. Unlike the more advanced LTPO panels used in the flagship iPhones, LTPS displays usually stay at a standard 60Hz refresh rate.
This isn’t necessarily a drawback. LTPS technology still delivers strong color accuracy and contrast, and by avoiding pricier LTPO components, Apple can keep the 17e affordable for consumers who want an iPhone without paying premium prices.
BOE gains ground as a key display supplier
One of the most notable parts of the report involves Apple’s supply chain. The Elec claims that BOE has secured a larger share of the panel orders for the iPhone 17e. Samsung Display and LG Display are also supplying panels, giving Apple multiple sources and helping to stabilize production.
This three-supplier approach helps Apple manage costs and reduce risks caused by potential shortages or manufacturing issues.
Rumored specs hinting an A19 chip and camera upgrades
Outside of the display, leaks point to a few hardware improvements as well. The iPhone 17e is rumored to come with:
- Apple’s upcoming A19 chip
- A new 18MP front camera
- A 48MP main rear camera, likely carried over from the iPhone 16e
Apple reportedly expects to ship around 8 million units in the first half of 2026, suggesting the company is confident about demand for the updated model.
Overall, the early details paint a picture of a device that doesn’t aim to reinvent the wheel but instead focuses on meaningful refinements. Thinner bezels, a reliable LTPS OLED screen, a faster chip, and upgraded cameras all point toward a more polished and capable entry-level iPhone.
