USB-C and Face ID come to Apple’s cheapest iPhone that starts at $599, but it’s missing MagSafe.
The era of the home button is officially over. Apple has launched the highly anticipated iPhone 16E, marking a major departure from the classic Touch ID interface and embracing the future with Face ID technology. The 16E not only introduces a refreshed design but also packs in powerful internals, including the cutting-edge A18 chip and Apple Intelligence capabilities. Starting at $599, this latest addition to the iPhone lineup redefines affordability and performance in a modern smartphone.
A Modern Successor to the iPhone SE
For those who loved the iPhone SE for its compact form factor and budget-friendly pricing, the iPhone 16E serves as its spiritual successor. However, Apple has taken a bold step forward by ditching the traditional home button in favor of a sleek, notch-based design reminiscent of 2022’s iPhone 14. Unlike the flagship iPhones that sport the Dynamic Island, the 16E incorporates a notch that houses its advanced Face ID sensors and front-facing cameras, ensuring a seamless and secure authentication experience.
Bigger, Brighter, and More Immersive Display
Equipped with a stunning 6.06-inch OLED display, the iPhone 16E is now almost identical in size to Apple’s standard iPhone 16, which features a 6.12-inch screen. This move means that Apple no longer offers a significantly smaller iPhone than its default model—at least until the rumored iPhone 17 Air arrives. With its crisp resolution and vibrant color accuracy, the OLED panel ensures an immersive viewing experience whether you’re streaming videos, gaming, or scrolling through social media.
Key Features and Notable Changes
The iPhone 16E borrows several high-end features from Apple’s flagship models while making strategic trade-offs to maintain an accessible price point:
- Action Button: The customizable Action Button makes its way to the 16E, allowing users to assign shortcuts and functions for quick access.
- USB-C Port: In compliance with EU regulations, Apple has finally ditched the Lightning port in favor of USB-C, providing a universal charging and data transfer solution.
- No MagSafe Support: Unlike the higher-end iPhones, the 16E does not support MagSafe accessories or fast wireless charging. Instead, it offers standard Qi wireless charging at up to 7.5W, which is noticeably slower than the 25W fast charging found on premium models.
- Water Resistance: The iPhone 16E retains an IP rating for water and dust resistance, ensuring durability against everyday spills and splashes.
Powering the Future: A18 Chip and Apple Intelligence
Under the hood, the iPhone 16E is powered by Apple’s latest A18 chipset, the same processor found in the standard iPhone 16. This means users can expect industry-leading performance, efficient power consumption, and support for advanced AI-driven features under Apple Intelligence. Even the iPhone 15 lacks these capabilities, making the 16E a surprisingly future-proof choice in Apple’s lineup.
Apple has previously stated that 8GB of RAM is the minimum requirement for Apple Intelligence features, suggesting that the 16E also boasts at least that much memory. Additionally, the base storage capacity has been bumped up to 128GB, officially retiring the outdated 64GB option.
Camera: A Streamlined Yet Capable Setup
Photography enthusiasts may notice a significant change in the camera department. The iPhone 16E features a single 48-megapixel rear camera—an upgrade in terms of megapixels but a downgrade compared to the dual or triple-camera systems on Apple’s other models. While it lacks ultra-wide or telephoto lenses, the primary sensor is expected to deliver sharp, high-quality images with Apple’s advanced computational photography.
A Game-Changer in Connectivity: Apple’s First In-House Modem
One of the most groundbreaking aspects of the iPhone 16E is its modem. For the first time, Apple has integrated a self-developed modem, moving away from reliance on Qualcomm’s connectivity hardware. This shift marks a significant milestone in Apple’s long-term strategy to gain full control over its hardware ecosystem. While the real-world performance of this modem remains to be seen, it could pave the way for further in-house advancements in the iPhone 17 series and beyond.
Pricing and Availability
The iPhone 16E is available for preorder starting this Friday at a price of $599. While this is a noticeable jump from the $429 price tag of the 2022 iPhone SE, Apple justifies the increase by offering more storage (128GB as the base model), a significantly more modern design, and access to next-generation features. The 16E will officially hit the market on February 28th, giving Apple fans an exciting new option in the mid-range smartphone segment.
Final Thoughts
The iPhone 16E is a bold step forward for Apple, blending affordability with flagship-level features. By embracing Face ID, the powerful A18 chip, and Apple Intelligence while maintaining a competitive price, the 16E is positioned as a strong contender for those seeking a budget-friendly yet powerful iPhone. While it lacks some high-end features like MagSafe and a multi-lens camera system, it compensates with performance, longevity, and a fresh design. Whether you’re upgrading from an older iPhone or considering switching to Apple’s ecosystem, the iPhone 16E is a compelling choice that delivers impressive value for its price.
Get ready to experience the future—preorders start this Friday!
