Apple has officially unveiled its first product of the year, the iPhone 16e, adding a new member to its smartphone lineup. This launch coincides with the discontinuation of three existing models: the iPhone SE, iPhone 14, and iPhone 14 Plus.
For years, Apple's budget-friendly option in the iPhone series was the iPhone SE, which retained the design of older iPhones while incorporating updated processors. Many industry analysts and consumers anticipated that Apple would continue using the SE brand for its next affordable device (the presumed iPhone SE 4). However, instead of releasing a fourth-generation SE, Apple introduced the "iPhone 16e." This move effectively replaces the iPhone SE, as well as the iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus, which previously served as more affordable alternatives to the latest flagship models.
Prior to this change, the iPhone SE was Apple's most cost-effective smartphone, priced at $429, while the iPhone 14 and 14 Plus were positioned as mid-range options. With the discontinuation of these models, the starting price for new iPhones has now increased to $599, making the iPhone 16e the most affordable option currently offered by Apple. This shift could impact budget-conscious consumers, particularly in markets like China and India, where users have favored the compact form factor and lower price of the iPhone SE. Additionally, the removal of the iPhone 14 Plus means that customers seeking a larger screen at a lower price point must now opt for the iPhone 15 Plus or pricier models.
"The iPhone 16e integrates the beloved features of the iPhone 16 series, including groundbreaking battery life, fast performance powered by the latest A18 chip, an innovative 2-in-1 camera system, and Apple’s smart technologies," commented Kaiann Drance, Apple's Vice President of Global iPhone Product Marketing. "We're thrilled that the iPhone 16e serves as a powerful yet more affordable option, rounding out our lineup and bringing the iPhone experience to even more people."
Unlike previous SE models, the iPhone 16e features a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display, sharing a similar appearance and size with the iPhone 14. This decision marks the end of the last iPhone model with a Home button, meaning users who prefer Touch ID will need to rely on older models or explore alternative authentication methods.
One of the most notable changes in the iPhone 16e is the introduction of the A18 chip, Apple's latest processor built on second-generation 3-nanometer technology. The chip delivers enhanced performance, energy efficiency, and better support for AI-driven functionalities within Apple's smart suite. Additionally, the device includes Apple's new C1 modem, marking the company's first rollout of its own cellular modem, reducing reliance on Qualcomm components. The iPhone 16e also features a single 48MP rear camera with integrated 2x zoom functionality.
The device will support Apple Smart (and its range of AI-driven features), offering multiple storage configurations, including 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB, in black and white finishes. Pre-orders for the iPhone 16e will begin on February 21, with official sales starting on February 28. Apple confirmed that the iPhone 16e will be available in 59 countries and regions, including the United States, Canada, India, and various European and Asian nations. Furthermore, the Cupertino-based tech giant will provide extended language support for Indian users, allowing them to set their iPhone's primary language to several Indian languages starting in April.
