Apple has unveiled the iPhone 16e, a mid-range smartphone designed to offer an affordable alternative within the iPhone lineup.
Priced at £599 for the 128GB model, the device aims to provide premium features at a lower cost.
Unlike previous SE models, the iPhone 16e eliminates the home button and Touch ID, relying on Face ID for unlocking. Apple claims that this facial recognition system is more secure, reducing the likelihood of errors.
The iPhone 16e boasts a 6.1-inch display, a durable aluminium frame, and a glass back available in black and white.
The Action Button, replacing the traditional ring/silent switch, allows users to launch apps or perform quick actions.
As part of the iPhone 16 series, the 16e is powered by Apple’s A18 chip and integrates the company’s AI system, Apple Intelligence.
This new technology can summarise notifications, help compose messages, and generate images. Apple’s virtual assistant, Siri, will receive an AI-driven upgrade, incorporating ChatGPT-like problem-solving capabilities.
The device is also the first iPhone to feature Apple’s C1 modem, ensuring 5G connectivity for faster network speeds.
Addressing one of the biggest concerns for users, Apple has equipped the iPhone 16e with a larger, longer-lasting battery, promising six hours more battery life than the iPhone 11 and 12 hours more than previous SE models.
However, the iPhone 16e lacks MagSafe compatibility, meaning it cannot use Apple’s wireless magnetic chargers. Instead, it supports standard wireless charging at a 7.5W speed, which is slower than MagSafe-supported devices.
One key similarity to the iPhone SE is its camera system. Unlike modern iPhones with multiple lenses, the iPhone 16e features a single 48-megapixel lens capable of 2x telephoto zoom. While not offering an ultrawide lens, Apple ensures it delivers high-quality images.
Apple announced the iPhone 16e through a 13-minute film featuring CEO Tim Cook. Speaking about the new model, Kaiann Drance, Apple’s VP of iPhone Product Marketing, stated:
“The iPhone 16e offers the features users love from the iPhone 16 lineup—breakthrough battery life, fast performance with the A18 chip, an innovative camera system, and Apple Intelligence. We’re excited for the iPhone 16e to bring the iPhone experience to more people at an affordable price.”
The iPhone 16e is available for pre-order starting tomorrow, with its official release set for February 28.
