Apple could bring a major display upgrade to its entry-level iPhone lineup with the iPhone 19e, according to a report by ZDNet Korea. The device, rumoured to launch in 2028, may feature an LTPO OLED display that supports 120Hz refresh rate, a feature currently limited to higher-end iPhone models. If introduced, this would mark the first time Apple offers ProMotion technology on its more affordable iPhone. Currently, the iPhone 17e uses a 60Hz LTPS display, and the upcoming iPhone 18e is also expected to continue with the same technology.
According to the report, the shift to LTPO panels may depend on Apple’s development of a new LTPO+ display technology, which is expected to improve power efficiency.
Apple is reportedly planning to use LTPO+ in its premium devices first, including future versions of the iPhone Air and foldable iPhones.
This could allow standard LTPO panels to be used in more affordable models like the iPhone 19e.
The report suggests the upgrade could happen in 2028, but it is not confirmed. If the new display technology is delayed, the rollout of LTPO panels to lower-cost models could also be pushed further.
Apple iPhone 17e launched
Earlier this month, Apple launched iPhone 17e – its most affordable member of its iPhone 17 family. Priced at Rs 64,900 in India, the phone brings MagSafe wireless charging, the A19 chip, and double the base storage compared to its predecessor, making it a meaningful step up from last year’s iPhone 16e.
The iPhone 17e comes in black, white, and a new soft pink colour, and is offered in 256GB and 512GB storage options.
The handset has a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display and boasts of a single 48MP Fusion camera, offering an optical-quality 2x telephoto crop alongside improved Portrait mode with automatic depth capture. Video recording supports 4K Dolby Vision at up to 60fps. The selfie camera stays at 12MP—no upgrade to the 18MP sensor on the iPhone 17 and iPhone Air.
The biggest addition is MagSafe with Qi2 support, enabling 15W wireless charging—double the 7.5W on the iPhone 16e.
