Apple Unveils the iPhone 16e Featuring Apple Intelligence at $599

After three years, Apple has introduced its new entry-level iPhone, the iPhone 16e, which replaces the iPhone SE in its product line. This model takes inspiration from the iPhone 14, enhancing it with an updated processor that supports Apple Intelligence. Priced at $599, it is the most affordable iPhone equipped with AI, being $200 cheaper than previous models.

The iPhone 16e features a design similar to the iPhone 14, Apple's 2023 mainline model that is not part of the Pro series. For the first time, an entry-level iPhone possesses a modern full-screen design and introduces Face ID for secure unlocking. Its 6.1-inch display is the largest ever for an entry-level model, compared to the 4.7-inch screen of the 2022 iPhone SE. However, unlike higher-end models, it retains the notch at the top and does not include the Dynamic Island feature.

External differences from the iPhone 14 include a USB-C port replacing the Lightning connector. Similar to previous iPhone SEs, the iPhone 16e is equipped with a single rear camera, which boasts a 48MP lens capable of 2x zoom—an impressive upgrade from its predecessor.

Additionally, the new iPhone features an Action button, a customizable shortcut button that first appeared on the iPhone 15 Pro. However, it does not support MagSafe charging found in more premium models. Instead, it offers Qi wireless charging at a maximum of 7.5W, aligning with the previous iPhone SE's capabilities but possibly disappointing some users.

On the inside, the iPhone 16e is powered by the A18 chip, the same chip that drives the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus. While it contains four GPU cores—fewer than those in the higher-end models—it is notably the first iPhone to feature an in-house modem, termed C1. With this switch from Qualcomm modems, the iPhone 16e lacks support for ultra-wideband 5G and Wi-Fi 7 found in other iPhone 16 versions. Nevertheless, it remains compatible with more commonly used sub-6GHz 5G and Wi-Fi 6.

With the A18 chip, users can access Apple Intelligence, which the company has recently been activating by default during setup, though it can be disabled in settings. Features include generative AI writing tools, Genmoji, Image Playground, Visual Intelligence, integration with ChatGPT, and enhanced notification summaries, all offered within a budget-friendly price range.

The new iPhone 16e will be available with storage options of 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB, and will come in black and white finishes.

At $599, the iPhone 16e offers competitive pricing alongside models like Google's $499 Pixel 8a and Samsung's $400 Galaxy A35, catering to those who seek flagship-like features without the associated costs. Pre-orders for the iPhone 16e will start on February 21 at 8 AM ET, with shipping commencing on February 28.

Correction, Feb 19 2025, 3:50 PM ET: An earlier version mistakenly stated that the iPhone 16e was $300 cheaper than the iPhone with Apple Intelligence. The correct difference is $200. We apologize for any confusion.

Apple, iPhone, AI