Apple has introduced the iPhone 16e, expanding its iPhone 16 lineup with a more budget-friendly option. The iPhone 16e offers several features found in higher-end models, including the A18 chip, Apple Intelligence integration, and a 48 MP Fusion camera system. Preorders begin on February 21, with availability starting February 28.
Design and Display
The iPhone 16e features a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with a resolution of 2,532 by 1,170 pixels at 460 pixels per inch. The device is available in matte black and white finishes. It maintains a durable design with an aluminum chassis and reinforced glass back, and is rated IP68 for water and dust resistance.
Performance and Battery Life
Powered by the A18 chip, the iPhone 16e includes a 6-core CPU and a 4-core GPU, delivering enhanced performance and efficiency. The device also incorporates Apple's C1 modem, the company's first in-house cellular modem, which supports 5G connectivity. Battery life has been significantly improved, offering up to 26 hours of video playback, which is up to 12 hours longer than previous iPhone SE models.
Camera System
The iPhone 16e is equipped with a 48 MP Fusion camera system that combines a wide-angle lens with a 2x telephoto capability, effectively providing two focal lengths in one camera. The front-facing TrueDepth camera offers 12 MP resolution with autofocus, enabling sharper selfies and group photos. Video recording supports up to 4K resolution at 60 frames per second, with Dolby Vision HDR.
Apple Intelligence and Additional Features
Built for Apple Intelligence, the iPhone 16e offers features such as the Clean Up tool for photo editing and natural language search in the Photos app. The device includes a customizable Action Button, allowing quick access to functions like the camera, flashlight, or specific app shortcuts. Safety features include satellite-based Emergency SOS, Roadside Assistance, and Messages, enabling users to stay connected even without cellular or Wi-Fi coverage.
Technical Specifications
- Display: 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED
- Resolution: 2,532 by 1,170 pixels at 460 ppi
- Processor: A18 chip with 6-core CPU and 4-core GPU
- Storage Options: 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB
- Rear Camera: 48 MP Fusion system with 2x telephoto
- Front Camera: 12 MP TrueDepth with autofocus
- Video Recording: Up to 4K at 60 fps with Dolby Vision HDR
- Battery Life: Up to 26 hours of video playback
- Connectivity: 5G support with Apple C1 modem
- Water and Dust Resistance: IP68 rating
- Colors: Matte black and white
Pricing and Availability
The iPhone 16e is available in three storage capacities:
- 128 GB: $599
- 256 GB: $699
- 512 GB: $899
Pre-orders start on February 21 at 5 a.m. PST, with general availability beginning February 28. The device will be accessible in 59 countries and regions, including the United States, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Japan, and the United Kingdom.
I was considering the iPhone 16e as an "upgrade" from my iPhone 13 Pro, mainly as a stopgap until Apple releases a more interesting premium device like an iPhone Air or Flip. The idea of a larger OLED display, improved battery life, and a 48MP camera made it seem like a decent option.
However, the missing features and price point make this a non-starter for me. The lack of MagSafe is disappointing, and while the new C1 modem sounds promising, I’d rather wait and see how it performs in real-world use before making the jump. The binned GPU is another concern, especially when coming from a Pro model.
As for Apple Intelligence support, it’s just not that interesting to me—at least for now. I don’t see it offering anything compelling enough to justify an upgrade. Starting at $599, the iPhone 16e doesn’t strike the right balance of price and features, so I’d rather stick with my iPhone 13 Pro and wait for something truly innovative.
Paul Tocatlian
Kisau Photography
www.kisau.com