I switched from iPhone 16 Pro to iPhone 17e: Why this is the iPhone most people actually need

We all have that friend who is absent on social media and seldom uses their smartphone the way most of us do—watching shows, playing games, streaming music, or doomscrolling. When asked why they barely use instant messaging apps or stream videos on their phones, the reply is: “The purpose of a phone is to stay connected.” No argument there, as this is a sentiment shared by millions. And, perhaps, this is why smartphones designed mindfully to keep things simple continue to find takers.

In an era where smartphones try to do everything, the iPhone 17e quietly asks a different question: what if a phone simply did enough and did it well? I have been using the iPhone 17e for the past few weeks. As a great admirer of compact phones, I am having a great time playing with Apple’s latest addition to the iPhone 17 lineup. It doesn’t have four cameras; it fits snugly in your hand and vanishes into your pockets, and there are no overbearing weight issues. This is one of the simplest yet most utilitarian devices I have tried in a long time. It is not only an affordable iPhone but also an entry point for all those who have been eager to experience the Apple ecosystem.