TECH – Apple has officially introduced the iPhone 16e, effectively discontinuing the iPhone SE and removing sub-$500 options like the iPhone 14 from its lineup. Priced at $599, the iPhone 16e is available for preorder starting February 21, with general availability commencing on February 28. The iPhone 16e marks a significant departure from the traditional design of the iPhone SE, adopting a modern, all-screen front with a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. This design incorporates Face ID technology, eliminating the need for the Touch ID home button and reducing bezel size. However, unlike the iPhone 16 series, the 16e does not feature the Dynamic Island; instead, it retains a static notch for the front-facing camera.
Under the hood, the iPhone 16e is powered by Apple’s A18 chipset paired with 8 GB of RAM, ensuring robust performance for everyday tasks and applications. The device offers storage options of 128 GB, 256 GB, and 512 GB. Notably, Apple has transitioned from the Lightning port to a USB-C port with this model, aligning with universal charging standards. Despite this change, data transfer speeds remain at 480 Mbps, consistent with previous models. Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the 48-megapixel main camera, which supports high-resolution photos and 4K video recording at 60 frames per second. The camera system also includes a 2x telephoto lens, enhancing versatility in capturing images. On the front, a 12-megapixel selfie camera is housed within the display notch.
The iPhone 16e introduces an Action Button, allowing users to customize quick access to specific functions, a feature previously reserved for higher-end models. However, it lacks MagSafe compatibility, which may influence accessory choices for some users. Battery life has seen a notable improvement, with claims of up to six hours longer usage compared to the iPhone 11 and twelve hours more than all iPhone SE generations. Available in black and white matte finishes, the iPhone 16e offers a sleek aesthetic. The base model with 128 GB storage is priced at $599, while the 256 GB and 512 GB variants are priced at $699 and $899, respectively. Preorders begin on February 21, with official sales starting on February 28.
This release signifies Apple’s strategic shift in its product lineup, phasing out the iPhone SE and standardizing features across its devices. The iPhone 16e aims to provide consumers with a balance of modern features and affordability, appealing to a broad audience seeking a capable yet cost-effective smartphone.
