Apple has just introduced the iPhone 16e, a new and (surprisingly) more affordable version of the iPhone 16 series. After years of ignoring the budget segment, Cupertino has apparently just accepted reality: not everyone wants to take out a loan just to get the latest iPhone. But is the iPhone 16e really worth its hype? And isn't the price a little high?! Is this the iPhone SE for 2025? Or just Apple's ploy to keep you in their ecosystem?
Apple did not decide to make radical changes. The iPhone 16e looks like a typical iPhone, with a glass back and an aluminum frame. It will be available in two classic matte colors – black and white.
Ahead awaits us 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, the same as the one in the iPhone 16. The picture is sharp, the colors are vibrant, the blacks are deep. But without ProMotion – the screen refresh rate remains at the standard 60 Hz, which means that scrolling through menus and applications will not be as smooth as on the Pro models.
The back side hides a single camera – but Apple markets it as “two in one", as the 48 MP sensor allows 2x optical zoom without loss of quality. There is no ultra-wide-angle camera here, which means that fans of landscape photos or group selfies will be somewhat deprived.
Connectivity? USB-C remains, meaning you can finally use a single cable for all your devices for charging and data transfer.
Performance: The latest A18 and Apple's AI magic
Apple on the processor did not save. iPhone 16e is powered by A18 chip, the same as that in the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus. This means that the performance will be extremely smooth, without any problems when multitasking, playing games or editing photos.
A special role is also played by Apple C1, Apple's first proprietary 5G modem, bringing more stable connection and improved energy efficiencyThis is Apple slowly freeing itself from its dependence on Qualcomm modems, which could lead to even better integration between hardware and software in the long term.
The biggest news is Apple Intelligence – Apple’s artificial intelligence system, which enables advanced photo processing, smarter Siri responses, image creation, and even advanced text editing. While it sounds revolutionary, it’s important to note that Apple Intelligence initially available only in English, which means the rest of the world will have to wait a little longer.
Battery: Apple is finally listening to users
Apple promises that the iPhone 16e will have longest battery life of any 6.1-inch iPhone everSpecifically: 6 hours longer battery life than iPhone 11, 12 hours longer battery life than iPhone SE (2022).
This means you'll easily get through a full day without having to search for a charger - especially when combined with the improved power efficiency of the new processor and modem. Wireless charging remains, but Apple didn't mention MagSafe, which raises questions about whether it will remain part of their future strategy.
Camera: Fewer lenses, more Apple software magic
Apple is known for making up for lacking hardware with advanced software – and the iPhone 16e is a great example of this.
- 48MP Fusion Camera – enables high-resolution photos and improved performance in low light conditions
- 2x optical zoom – no loss of quality thanks to the large sensor
- Night mode and portrait mode – expected but still welcome features
- 4K Dolby Vision video recording – top-notch video quality, which Apple still manages better than the competition
Front TrueDepth camera it remains at 12 MP, with autofocus for sharper selfies and FaceTime calls.
But despite everything: no ultra-wide-angle lens, no telephoto cameraIf you're used to the iPhone Pro models, you might miss this.
Key features that will convince you
- Action Button – a button that you can customize to quickly open the camera, turn on the flashlight, or any other function
- Satellite functions – messages and emergency assistance via satellite in places without signal
- iOS 18 – more personalization, better privacy, and improved messaging features
But it is not Always-On display, it is not Dynamic IcelandThis remains reserved for more expensive models.
Price: Apple (almost) becomes wallet-friendly
iPhone 16e costs 599 $ (probably around €699 in EuropeIt will be available in three versions: 128GB, 256GB, 512 GB
Is the iPhone 16e worth buying?
If you want a new iPhone, but you don't want to spend your wealth, the iPhone 16e is one of the better choices in Apple's lineup. It offers a powerful processor, long battery life, a good camera and some AI tricks. But at the same time, it is clear that Apple is targeting a specific segment with this move – users who want authentic iPhone experience, but don't need all the advanced features of the Pro models.
If you are a fan the best cameras, ProMotion display or premium materials, then you will still have to go for more expensive models.
For everyone else: The iPhone 16e is probably the most sensible choice in Apple's lineup - finally an affordable iPhone that doesn't feel like a compromise. 🎉 Although it's not cheap anymore. You can buy it via this link!
