Apple Expands Product Lineup With New Devices, here’s the complete details.
Apple introduced the iPhone 17e, a more affordable model within the iPhone 17 series, alongside a redesigned iPad Air powered by the M4 chip.
The launch reflects Apple’s strategy to expand access to flagship-level features while strengthening its tablet lineup with higher-performance hardware.
The new devices will be available for pre-order starting March 4, with sales beginning March 11, including in India.
iPhone 17e Brings Satellite Connectivity to a Lower Price Tier
The iPhone 17e starts at Rs 64,900 and comes in 256GB and 512GB storage variants. The device is available in black, white, and soft pink finishes.
One of the most significant additions is satellite connectivity, enabling users to remain connected when cellular networks or Wi-Fi are unavailable.
Through satellite support, users can access services including:
- Emergency SOS
- Roadside Assistance
- Messages via satellite
- Find My location tracking
These features provide communication capabilities in remote locations or emergencies.
Display, Performance, and Camera Upgrades
The iPhone 17e features a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with up to 1200 nits HDR brightness. Apple protects the display with Ceramic Shield 2, designed to improve scratch resistance and reduce glare.
The device runs on the A19 chip, Apple’s latest processor, paired with the C1X cellular modem, which Apple says delivers speeds up to twice as fast as the previous generation modem.
Camera capabilities include:
- 48MP Fusion main camera
- 2x optical-quality telephoto lens
- 4K Dolby Vision recording
- 10x digital zoom
- 12MP TrueDepth front camera
The system also supports enhanced portrait photography, improved low-light performance, and audio tools for clearer voice capture.
Software and Battery Features
The smartphone ships with iOS 26, which introduces the Liquid Glass interface along with several Apple Intelligence features.
These include:
- Visual Intelligence via the Action button
- Live Translation
- Call Screening
- Hold Assist
- AI-powered photo cleanup
Apple says the iPhone 17e can reach a 50 percent charge in about 30 minutes and deliver up to 26 hours of video playback. The device supports MagSafe and Qi2 wireless charging up to 15W.
New iPad Air Powered by the M4 Chip
Apple also unveiled an updated iPad Air (M4), available in 11-inch and 13-inch models.
Pricing begins at:
- Rs 64,900 for the 11-inch model
- Rs 84,900 for the 13-inch model
Education customers can purchase the devices starting at Rs 59,900 and Rs 79,900, respectively.
The new iPad Air runs on iPadOS 26 and features the M4 chip with:
- 8-core CPU
- 9-core GPU
- 16-core Neural Engine
Apple says the tablet delivers up to 30 percent faster performance compared with the previous M3-powered model, with 50 percent more unified system memory.
Designed for Creative and AI-Driven Workflows
The upgraded iPad Air targets creative professionals and students who require strong processing power for tasks such as video editing and AI-assisted workflows.
Apps like Final Cut Pro benefit from the M4 chip’s improved graphics performance and higher memory bandwidth.
The tablet also introduces updated multitasking tools, including:
- A redesigned menu bar
- Improved file management in the Files app
- Advanced audio capture features
- Background task support
Apple’s New Product Launch Strategy
Apple appears to be shifting its launch strategy this year.
Instead of a single keynote presentation, the company plans multiple announcements across a week, culminating in a major event on March 4.
Additional products expected during the announcement cycle include:
- A new entry-level iPad
- An upgraded MacBook Air
- Updated MacBook Pro models
This staggered approach allows Apple to spotlight each device separately while maintaining attention across the product lineup.
Source: Business Connect
