Apple is shaking things up again with the release of the iPhone 16e, its new “affordable” iPhone that aims to deliver high-end features without the hefty price tag. Skipping the usual keynote, Apple unveiled the iPhone 16e via a press release, and it’s already sparking debates. So, what’s the deal? Let’s break it down.
A Larger, More Affordable iPhone
First things first: the iPhone 16e isn’t a mini-phone. With a 6.1-inch OLED display, it’s almost the same size as the iPhone 16 (and it’s practically identical in size to the iPhone 14). Apple’s previous affordable iPhones, like the iPhone SE, were known for their smaller form factor, but the iPhone 16e embraces a larger screen that’s more in line with the standard iPhone lineup.
Design and New Features
When it comes to looks, the iPhone 16e borrows a lot from the iPhone 14. It’s got that signature edge-to-edge display, a notch housing the selfie camera, and Face ID. However, gone are the days of the Home button with Touch ID—Apple’s future is all about Face ID and sleek, bezel-less designs. There’s also a new Action button, although it’s not the same as the Camera Control button found in the iPhone 16.
One big change: the iPhone 16e is the first affordable iPhone to feature Apple’s own C1 cellular 5G modem, which is a big leap forward from the Qualcomm chips used in past iPhones. Plus, it supports USB-C and wireless charging, which were previously missing from the SE models.
Battery Life That Won’t Quit
Battery life is where the iPhone 16e really shines. Thanks to its A18 chip and the new C1 modem, Apple claims it offers the best battery life on a 6.1-inch iPhone to date. It supports up to 26 hours of video playback, which beats the iPhone 16’s 22 hours. So, whether you’re catching up on Netflix or attending back-to-back Zoom calls, this phone’s got your back.
Apple also boasts that the iPhone 16e lasts up to 12 hours longer than any previous iPhone SE, and up to six hours more than the iPhone 11. That’s a significant leap for users who are upgrading from older models.
The Camera: A Mixed Bag
Now, let’s talk about the camera. The iPhone 16e comes with a 48MP main camera, but there’s no ultra-wide lens like on the iPhone 16. While it still supports Portrait Mode and includes a built-in 2x telephoto lens, it lacks the versatility of the iPhone 16’s dual-camera setup. Don’t expect macro shots or spatial photos for the Vision Pro, either. If you’re after a top-tier camera, the 16e might fall a bit short.
Pricing & Availability: Budget-Friendly, but Not Cheap
The iPhone 16e is priced at $599 for the 128GB model, making it more affordable than the iPhone 16 by $200. It’s available in black or white, with options to upgrade to 256GB or 512GB for an extra $100 and $300, respectively. While it’s a better deal than the more expensive models, the iPhone 16e is still pricier than the previous iPhone SE, which started at $429.
Pre-orders start on February 20th, and the phone will ship by February 28th.
The Final Word: Is the iPhone 16e for You?
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing too many features, the iPhone 16e is a solid choice. It combines the power of Apple’s A18 chip, impressive battery life, and a larger display, but with some compromises, particularly in the camera department.
Are you planning on upgrading to the iPhone 16e? Or is there another iPhone that has your attention? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!