Apple has launched the iPhone 16e, a budget-friendly smartphone featuring the powerful A18 chip and the new C1 5G modem. This model includes a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display, a 48 MP rear camera, and comes with iOS 18, integrating advanced AI features. It adopts USB-C connectivity and offers a sleek design in black and white. Pre-orders start on February 21, 2025, with prices beginning at 719 euros for the 128 GB version.
Introducing the iPhone 16e: Apple’s New Entry-Level Marvel
Apple has unveiled the iPhone 16e, its latest budget-friendly smartphone that promises to redefine value for money. Unlike the iPhone SE, the iPhone 16e presents a fresh approach, boasting impressive specifications that may even overshadow the more expensive iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 models.
A New Era of Performance and Features
Initially, many anticipated the launch of an iPhone SE 4 or an iPhone SE 2025. However, Apple has chosen to introduce the iPhone 16e instead. This name holds significance, as this entry-level model comes closer than ever to matching the performance of its flagship counterparts. The iPhone 16e is equipped with a robust technical configuration and is priced more competitively than its predecessors.
Part of the iPhone 16 series, the device is powered by the same A18 chip found in the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus. Significantly, it features Apple’s first-ever 5G modem, known as the C1. This modem is touted as the “most energy-efficient modem ever installed in an iPhone,” contributing to enhanced battery life alongside the low consumption rates of the SoC and modem. Apple claims that the battery endurance is comparable to that of the iPhone 15 and slightly lower than that of the iPhone 16.
The iPhone 16e sports a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, moving away from the smaller LCD screens of the iPhone SE. The refresh rate is set at 60 Hz, with the 120 Hz option reserved for Pro models. Notably, the device does not include Touch ID; instead, it utilizes Face ID facial recognition. The design returns to the traditional notch, with the Dynamic Island feature reserved for higher-end models.
As anticipated, the smartphone adopts USB-C connectivity, aligning with European regulations that phase out the Lightning port for new products. The innovative Action button is present, enabling users to create convenient shortcuts, replacing the less versatile silent mode switch. However, the new Photo button for adjusting the camera with a physical button is not included.
On the rear, the iPhone 16e features a single 48 MP wide-angle camera with pixel fusion technology for improved low-light photography. Apple highlights that this lens offers a 2-in-1 function, providing a 2x “optical quality” telephoto zoom, though it does not include an ultra-wide-angle sensor. Video capabilities are impressive, allowing 4K recording with Dolby Vision at 60 frames per second along with spatial audio support.
Shipped with iOS 18, the iPhone 16e comes equipped with Apple Intelligence features. The Clean Up tool simplifies the removal of unwanted elements from photos, and users can utilize natural language search in the Photos app to easily locate images. The new generative AI feature, Image Playground, allows users to create unique images, while Genmoj enables the generation of custom emojis. Writing Tools enhance text creation, and Siri’s interactions become more intuitive as it remembers contextual details for a personalized user experience.
Integrating ChatGPT directly into system applications allows users to engage with advanced AI without needing an OpenAI account, and they have the option to disable this feature if preferred. Apple has also confirmed that Apple Intelligence will support the French language by April 2025, coinciding with the launch of iOS 18.4.
Available in sleek black and white matte finishes, the iPhone 16e will commence pre-orders on Friday, February 21, 2025, with availability starting February 28. The pricing structure begins at 719 euros for the 128 GB model, with an upgrade to 256 GB costing 849 euros and a 512 GB option available for 1,099 euros.