Cupertino, CA, February 19, 2025 – Apple has announced the iPhone 16e, its new entry-level model that replaces the iPhone SE, priced at $599. The device adopts the modern full-screen design of the iPhone 14, marking the first time an entry-level iPhone includes Face ID and a 6.1-inch display.
The iPhone 16e is powered by the A18 chip, which now enables Apple Intelligence - a suite of generative AI features that includes writing tools, Genmoji, Image Playground, Visual Intelligence, ChatGPT integration, and updated notification summaries. Apple Intelligence is activated by default during the device’s initial setup, though users can disable the feature in Settings.
Key hardware updates include a USB-C port replacing the traditional Lightning connector and a single 48MP "2-in-1" rear camera with integrated 2x zoom capabilities. The device also introduces the Action Button, a customizable physical shortcut that debuted on the iPhone 15 Pro. However, the iPhone 16e does not support MagSafe charging and only offers Qi wireless charging up to 7.5W - a notable drawback compared to more expensive models.
Internally, the A18 chip in the iPhone 16e is the same processor found in the higher-end iPhone 16 and 16 Plus models, though it is configured with four GPU cores, compared to five or six in other models within the series. In a further differentiation, the iPhone 16e is the first to feature an in-house modem, known as C1, replacing Qualcomm’s modems. This change means the device lacks ultra-wideband 5G and Wi-Fi 7 support, though it remains compatible with sub-6GHz 5G and Wi-Fi 6 networks.
Available in storage configurations of 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB and offered in black and white finishes, the iPhone 16e positions itself as a competitive option against similarly priced devices such as Google’s $499 Pixel 8a and Samsung’s $400 Galaxy A35. Pre-orders begin on February 21 at 8AM ET, with shipping scheduled to start on February 28.
By integrating advanced AI capabilities into an affordable model, Apple aims to attract users interested in next-generation features while expanding its market reach in the entry-level segment.
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