iFixit exposed the iPhone 17e – the back cover with MagSafe works on the iPhone 16e

iFixit disassembles the new iPhone 17 e: what’s changed and which parts can be replaced

The iPhone 17 e has recently hit the market – a model that is almost identical to its predecessor, but now comes with a MagSafe panel for Qi wireless charging. iFixit specialists have taken the phone apart and found that many components remain interchangeable with the iPhone 16 e.

1. Design and MagSafe
* The appearance is nearly identical to the iPhone 16 e.
* The rear panel is the same size as last year’s model, so it can be used in both devices.
This allows you to “upgrade” an older phone by installing a MagSafe panel and adding wireless charging support.

2. Component interchangeability
* Battery – replaceable without removing the display. An electric pulse separates it from the adhesive, simplifying the procedure.
* MagSafe module – compatible with the iPhone 16 e, but accessory‑recognition software is missing, so it’s unclear whether the 16th model can charge at full 15 W power.
* Motherboard – can be transferred from an iPhone 16 e into a 17 e chassis without major difficulties. However, the TrueDepth ID camera stops working after such a swap.

3. New chips and modem
* CPU – Apple Silicon A19 replaces the A18.
* Modem – C1 has been replaced with the faster C1X.
* Minimum storage capacity is now 256 GB.

4. USB‑C port
The USB‑Type‑C port sits deep inside the chassis, behind other components. This makes DIY repair more difficult compared to Apple’s flagship models where the port is more accessible.

iFixit conclusions
* Repairability – 7 out of 10 points.
The specialists highly rated part compatibility and the potential for repairs using used components.
* Internal components (memory, processor, modem) are also compatible with both the iPhone 16 e and 17 e, making upgrades more affordable.

Key takeaway:

“Cross‑compatibility matters – it simplifies repair, eases parts sourcing, and reduces upgrade costs,” note iFixit experts.