Apple has officially unveiled the iPhone 16e, a new addition to the iPhone 16 lineup that replaces the SE branding. With a starting price of $599, the iPhone 16e introduces significant upgrades, bringing it closer to Apple’s flagship models while maintaining a more affordable price point.
“iPhone 16e packs in the features our users love about the iPhone 16 lineup, including breakthrough battery life, fast performance powered by the latest-generation A18 chip, an innovative 2-in-1 camera system, and Apple Intelligence,” said Kaiann Drance, Apple’s vice president of Worldwide iPhone Product Marketing. “We’re so excited for iPhone 16e to complete the lineup as a powerful, more affordable option to bring the iPhone experience to even more people.”
Design
The iPhone 16e features an all-new design, ditching the traditional SE aesthetic for a modern look that aligns with the rest of the iPhone 16 lineup. It comes in black and white with a matte finish, offering a premium feel. The device also includes the Action Button, which allows users to customize various shortcuts, though it lacks the Camera Control button available on the higher-end models. The iconic Home button is gone, replaced by Face ID for seamless authentication.
Display
The iPhone 16e boasts a 6.1-inch OLED display with Ceramic Shield protection, the same size as the standard iPhone 16. Unlike the higher-end models, it retains a notch at the top for Face ID and the front-facing camera, rather than adopting the Dynamic Island. The OLED panel delivers deep blacks, high contrast, and vibrant colors, offering an immersive viewing experience.
Action button
The iPhone 16e retains the Action button, allowing users to customize it for quick access to functions such as launching the camera, activating shortcuts, or toggling silent mode. This feature, introduced in the iPhone 15 Pro lineup, adds an extra layer of convenience and personalization for users who rely on shortcuts and automation.
A18 chip
Powering the iPhone 16e is Apple’s A18 chip, ensuring top-tier performance. The 6-core CPU delivers up to 80% faster processing speeds compared to the A13 Bionic found in older models. The device also includes a 16-core Neural Engine optimized for large generative AI models, significantly enhancing machine learning capabilities. Battery efficiency has improved, offering up to 26 hours of video playback, making it the longest-lasting 6.1-inch iPhone yet.
Camera
The iPhone 16e features a 48-megapixel rear camera with Apple’s Fusion technology. While it lacks a dedicated wide-angle lens, the primary sensor includes a 2x telephoto option by cropping into the central 12 megapixels, ensuring high-quality zoomed images. The front-facing 12-megapixel camera supports autofocus, ensuring sharp selfies and video calls. Users can record 4K video with Dolby Vision at up to 60 frames per second, with advanced audio mixing and wind noise reduction features enhancing the recording experience.
Speakers, microphone, and connectivity
The iPhone 16e supports Spatial Audio recording and playback, delivering an immersive listening experience when paired with AirPods or Apple Vision Pro. It is also the first Apple device to feature the C1 chip, Apple’s in-house 5G modem, ensuring fast and reliable connectivity while improving power efficiency. Additionally, the device supports USB-C, marking a shift away from the Lightning connector and complying with European Union regulations. Satellite connectivity is included for Emergency SOS, Roadside Assistance, and Find My tracking in remote areas.
Apple Intelligence
A major highlight of the iPhone 16e is its support for Apple Intelligence, the company’s AI-powered software suite. Features such as Genmoji, Writing Tools, Clean Up in Photos, and ChatGPT integration enhance the user experience. The Action Button can be customized to activate Visual Intelligence, allowing users to interact with AI-driven functionalities quickly. These AI capabilities make the iPhone 16e a future-ready device, even as Apple continues rolling out new features across its lineup.
Battery life
Apple claims that the iPhone 16e delivers the best battery life ever in a 6.1-inch iPhone. The device reportedly lasts up to six hours longer than the iPhone 11 and up to 12 hours longer than previous iPhone SE models. It supports up to 26 hours of video playback, making it a solid choice for users who prioritize battery longevity. Wireless charging is supported, but MagSafe remains exclusive to the higher-end iPhone 16 models.
Software and features
The iPhone 16e ships with iOS 18, bringing a range of new features to the device. This includes an upgraded Photos app with AI-powered editing, enhanced customization options for the lock screen and Control Center, and improved security measures. Additionally, the device is expected to receive multiple years of software updates, ensuring longevity.
Build and durability
Apple has reinforced the iPhone 16e with Ceramic Shield on the front and the toughest back glass in a smartphone. It features an aluminum frame for durability and remains water and dust-resistant with an IP67 rating. These enhancements make the device more resilient to everyday wear and tear.
Price and availability
The iPhone 16e starts at $599 for the 128GB model, with 256GB and 512GB options available at higher price points. Pre-orders begin on February 21, with official availability starting on February 28.
Apple has also discontinued the iPhone SE and iPhone 14, reinforcing the iPhone 16e’s role as the new entry-level iPhone for consumers looking for advanced features at a more affordable price.
