Apple iPhone 16e Review: Unleashing the A18 Chip and Smart Features for Just $599!

Apple quietly launched its new budget phone, the iPhone 16e, priced at $599. There was no grand event, just a simple tweet from CEO Tim Cook about the upcoming device. The official announcement came via a press release, rather than the usual media frenzy.

The iPhone 16e isn’t designed to dazzle; it’s a practical choice. It combines features from previous models, mainly resembling the iPhone 13 and 14. This phone includes a display notch and the Action button from the iPhone 15, but it lacks the Camera Control feature found in the newer models.

One notable feature of the 16e is its custom C1 modem. While modems may not seem exciting, this one is special because it’s Apple’s first. Many users only notice modems when they malfunction, but the introduction of Apple’s own technology is significant.

The 16e borrows heavily from older phones, yet it offers something new: the A18 chip, which is also in the iPhone 16. This chip sets the 16e apart and offers a more affordable entry point into Apple’s newest technology, especially since it’s $200 less than the iPhone 16. Plus, Apple is likely to support the A18 longer than the older A16 chip in the iPhone 15.

Apple is also pushing its generative AI features with this model, which were previously available only on pricier devices. This move highlights the company’s focus on AI as a key part of its future.

A “modern” take on a familiar form factor

The pricing of the 16e is key. It may not seem like much to drop $200 from the entry-level iPhone price, but in markets like China and India, even small changes matter. However, Apple faces tough competition in these regions, which adds to the challenge of attracting new users.

In India, the iPhone 14 and 15 are still available, complicating choices for buyers. The 16e’s positioning in the lineup is tricky, as it’s only $100 cheaper than the iPhone 15, which makes it less of a bargain compared to some Android options.

While the design of the 16e is similar to the iPhone 14, it doesn’t feel outdated. Many buyers may miss the Touch ID feature or the compact size of the last SE model, as the 16e does not offer a smaller screen option.

All three models — the iPhone 15, 16, and 16e — have a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display. They share a similar look, but the 16e has some differences, including a notch instead of the Dynamic Island. The brightness level also varies, with the 16e maxing out at 1,200 nits compared to 2,000 nits for the other two.

All models come with a USB-C port, but the 16e lacks the MagSafe connector. It supports Qi charging but at a lower speed. Interestingly, the 16e promises the best battery life among the three due to its efficient modem and a larger battery.

The 16e has the A18 chip and a six-core CPU, though it has a four-core GPU compared to the 16’s five-core. They all start with 128GB storage, with options to upgrade. The extra RAM in the 16e may help with Apple’s AI features.

Intelligent design

Apple is focusing on its generative AI features, which allow tasks like text rewriting and image creation. The usefulness of Apple Intelligence will depend on individual needs, especially in its early stages. This technology is set to grow and may be essential in the near future.

The 16e also includes Visual Intelligence, a feature similar to Google Lens, although it requires the Action Button for access. One camera on the back uses computational photography to simulate a two-camera experience, offering decent image quality, even if it lacks versatility.

Switching to one camera means losing some features found in the 15 and 16, but the 16e still delivers nice photos for a single-sensor phone. It’s a leap forward from the older iPhone SE.

It comes down to the features you need

With every price drop, you usually lose something. Choosing the right iPhone now depends on what features you value most. The 16e prioritizes affordability and essential features over advanced ones.

If having the latest technology is your priority, it’s worth spending extra for the iPhone 16. However, if you’re content with solid functionality, the 15 might suit you just fine. The 16e emphasizes Apple’s AI capabilities while making sacrifices in other areas. For those who can live without the extras, the 16e is a solid choice at a more accessible price point.