Amanda Castro

By Amanda Castro

Associate News Editor

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Apple has launched a new, lower-priced iPhone model called the iPhone 16e, aimed at expanding its customer base and boosting sales. Priced at $599, the new device will go on sale later this month and comes with a modern design and Apple's latest A18 chip.

"iPhone 16e packs in the features our users love about the iPhone 16 lineup, including breakthrough battery life, fast performance powered by the latest-generation A18 chip, an innovative 2-in-1 camera system, and Apple Intelligence," said Drance, Apple's vice president of Worldwide iPhone Product Marketing. "We're so excited for iPhone 16e to complete the lineup as a powerful, more affordable option to bring the iPhone experience to even more people."

What to know:

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Feb 19, 2025 at 04:57 PM EST

iPhone 16e lacks Dynamic Island despite Face ID upgrade

Face ID

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The iPhone 16e features a 6.1-inch OLED display with a notch at the top, housing the necessary components for Face ID, which replaces the Touch ID found in previous models.

However, the device does not include Apple's Dynamic Island, a feature that debuted with the iPhone 14 Pro and 14 Pro Max. Dynamic Island offers enhanced functionality for notifications and widgets, providing more interactive user experiences.

Given the similarities between the iPhone 16e and the standard iPhone 14, the absence of Dynamic Island is unsurprising. Still, some users may find it disappointing, especially for a feature that adds convenience and versatility.

Feb 19, 2025 at 04:45 PM EST

Action button replaces Ring/Silent switch on new iPhones

The Action Button, a programmable button located on the left side of the iPhone, featured on iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max models, replaces the traditional Ring/Silent switch and allows users to customize a side button for various tasks.

Users can configure it for actions such as:

Feb 19, 2025 at 04:28 PM EST

Visual Intelligence available on iPhone 16e without camera button

Visual Intelligence, a feature of Apple Intelligence previously tied to the Camera Control button on iPhone 16 models, is now accessible on the iPhone 16e despite its lack of a dedicated camera button.

According to Apple's website, Visual Intelligence can be activated on the iPhone 16e using the Action button or through the Control Center.

While the Camera Control button was initially used to justify the feature's absence from older iPhones like the iPhone 15 Pro, its availability via the Action button on the iPhone 16e suggests it could work on older devices as well.

Feb 19, 2025 at 04:10 PM EST

iPhone 16e lacks MagSafe support for charging and accessories

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The new iPhone 16e will not support Apple's MagSafe, the magnetic charging and accessory system first introduced with the iPhone 12.

MagSafe uses built-in magnets to align wireless chargers and attach compatible cases, wallets, and other accessories to the back of the device. Without this feature, iPhone 16e users will need to rely on traditional charging methods and standard accessories.

Feb 19, 2025 at 03:59 PM EST

Price gap between iPhone 16e and iPhone 15 sparks tough choice

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With the release of the iPhone 16e, Apple now offers its cheapest new iPhone, following the retirement of the iPhone SE 2022. The price difference between the iPhone 16e and the iPhone 15 is just $100, making it a challenging decision for buyers.

The iPhone 15 includes a 12MP ultrawide camera and features like Action and Cinematic modes for video capture, both absent on the 16e. However, the iPhone 16e boasts the newer A18 chip and Apple Intelligence, unlocking advanced functionality that may sway potential buyers.

Feb 19, 2025 at 03:43 PM EST

New iPhone 16e requires immediate software update

Customers receiving the new iPhone 16e will need to download a software update to install iOS 18.3.1, the latest version of iOS 18. The device will ship with iOS 18.3, but users must update to iOS 18.3.1 to ensure smooth data migration from older iPhones already running that version.

Although iOS 18.3.1 doesn't add new features, it addresses a critical security vulnerability that Apple reports was actively exploited. Preorders for the iPhone 16e begin this Friday, with its official launch scheduled for February 28.

Feb 19, 2025 at 03:30 PM EST

Apple discontinues iPhone SE after new 16e release

Apple has confirmed that the iPhone SE will be discontinued with the launch of the iPhone 16e. The iPhone 14 Plus is also expected to be phased out.

The iPhone SE was priced at $429, offering a $170 price difference from the new iPhone 16e. Apple's decision aligns with its strategy to streamline product lines while still offering devices at various price points to suit different budgets.

Feb 19, 2025 at 03:16 PM EST

iPhone 16 vs. iPhone 16e: What’s the difference?

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While both models share a similar design and some core functionalities, they differ in several key aspects:

Display:

Camera:

Chipset:

Battery Life:

Storage Options:

Price Estimation:

Device Color:

Read the full story by Kate Nalepinski on Newsweek.

Feb 19, 2025 at 03:04 PM EST

Upgraded features include larger display and Face ID

The iPhone 16e, available for preorder on February 21 and shipping on February 28, introduces several upgrades over the previous iPhone SE. It features a larger 6.1-inch OLED display, Face ID for secure unlocking, and a switch from the Lightning port to USB-C for charging.

Unlike its predecessor, the iPhone 16e eliminates the Touch ID home button and thick bezels, creating a more modern design. However, it retains a static camera notch and a 60 Hz screen refresh rate, which is lower than the 90 or 120 Hz common in other smartphones at this price point. Powered by Apple's A18 chipset, the device delivers strong performance comparable to the iPhone 16, though it has one less GPU core, slightly affecting graphics performance.

Feb 19, 2025 at 01:56 PM EST

New phone include action button for quick functionality access

Apple debuts iPhone 16e

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The iPhone 16e features a new Action button, providing users with fast access to a variety of functions with just a press. Once customized in Settings, the button can be used to open the camera, switch between Ring and Silent modes, recognize music with Shazam, or activate Voice Memos, Focus, Translate, and accessibility features like Magnifier. It can also be tailored for in-app functions like launching the camera in Snapchat, unlocking a car door with FordPass, or tracking a child's sleep schedule with Napper.

In addition to its versatile utility, the Action button enhances the iPhone 16e with visual intelligence features powered by Apple Intelligence. It enables users to identify objects and places, summarize and translate text, detect phone numbers or emails, and even search for items online. With privacy in mind, users have full control over when third-party tools like ChatGPT are used and what information is shared.

Feb 19, 2025 at 01:45 PM EST

iPhone 16e enhances user experience with Apple Intelligence

Examples of iPhone 16's Apple Intelligence

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The iPhone 16e is designed for Apple Intelligence, offering a range of powerful features to make everyday tasks easier and more creative. Users can now remove distractions from images with the Clean Up tool and search photos simply by describing them using natural language.

The new Image Playground allows for creative expression through themes, costumes, and accessories, while Genmoji lets users create personalized emojis. Siri has become more conversational, capable of following up on previous requests and offering extensive Apple product knowledge.

The iPhone 16e also integrates ChatGPT into Writing Tools and Siri, enabling users to access its expertise seamlessly. This integration allows users to get things done faster without switching apps, and they can use ChatGPT for free with privacy protections in place. With on-device processing and Private Cloud Compute, Apple Intelligence ensures data privacy at every step, offering a secure, personalized experience.

Feb 19, 2025 at 01:33 PM EST

iPhone 16e delivers fast performance with A18 chip

The iPhone 16e is powered by Apple's advanced A18 chip, featuring a 6-core CPU that is up to 80% faster than the A13 Bionic chip in iPhone 11, ensuring smooth performance for both everyday tasks and intensive actions with Apple Intelligence.

The 4-core GPU enhances mobile gaming with stunning graphics and supports AAA titles and ray tracing for more realistic visuals. Additionally, the 16-core Neural Engine speeds up machine learning tasks, performing up to six times faster than the A13 Bionic for larger generative models.

Feb 19, 2025 at 01:25 PM EST

iPhone 16e offers durability, display, and long battery life

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The iPhone 16e is built for durability with an IP68 rating for splash, water, and dust resistance, and features the toughest front and back glass in a smartphone. Its 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display offers an edge-to-edge design for vibrant videos, games, and text.

The device also boasts the longest battery life ever on a 6.1-inch iPhone, lasting up to six hours longer than the iPhone 11 and 12 hours longer than previous iPhone SE models. With Face ID for secure access and wireless or USB-C charging, the iPhone 16e is designed for both convenience and performance.

Feb 19, 2025 at 01:12 PM EST

Apple unveils iPhone 16e

Apple announced the new iPhone 16e, offering fast performance with its A18 chip and Apple-designed C1 cellular modem. The device features Apple Intelligence, providing privacy-focused personal AI assistance.

Its 48MP Fusion camera with integrated 2x telephoto allows for high-quality zoom, and satellite-based features like Emergency SOS and Roadside Assistance enhance connectivity in remote areas.

Available in matte black and white, the iPhone 16e will open for pre-orders on February 21, with sales beginning February 28. Apple VP Kaiann Drance said the 16e offers breakthrough battery life and fast performance for more users.

"iPhone 16e packs in the features our users love about the iPhone 16 lineup, including breakthrough battery life, fast performance powered by the latest-generation A18 chip, an innovative 2-in-1 camera system, and Apple Intelligence," said Drance, Apple's vice president of Worldwide iPhone Product Marketing. "We're so excited for iPhone 16e to complete the lineup as a powerful, more affordable option to bring the iPhone experience to even more people."

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