The iPhone 16e represents a significant shift from the outdated design of the iPhone SE 3. Equipped with the powerful A18 chip found in the iPhone 16, this model promises enhanced performance. Additionally, it introduces the Action Button, a feature first seen on the iPhone 15 Pro.
As the iPhone 16e hits the market, it offers an appealing option for those seeking an affordable entry into Apple’s latest offerings. While many anticipated it would serve as a direct successor to the iPhone SE 3, it actually functions more as a budget-friendly alternative to the iPhone 16 series.
With pre-orders concluding today and sales commencing tomorrow (February 28), potential buyers may wonder: is it worth purchasing? Here are four reasons to consider the iPhone 16e, along with one reason to think twice.
iPhone 16e: 4 Reasons to Buy
1. A Fresh and Modern Design
The iPhone 16e departs from the outdated look of the iPhone SE 3, featuring a sleek 6.1-inch display with a notch for Face ID. The flat aluminum frame gives it a premium feel, and the IP68 rating for dust and water resistance is a notable upgrade from the SE 3’s IP67. Although color options are limited to black and white, the overall design makes the iPhone 16e feel contemporary.
2. Powerful Performance
Under the hood, the iPhone 16e is equipped with the same A18 chip found in the iPhone 16, ensuring exceptional performance. With 8GB of RAM and a 4-core GPU, it handles everything from everyday tasks to graphics-intensive games effortlessly. The standout feature is its impressive battery life, offering up to 26 hours of video playback—significantly better than the 15 hours provided by the iPhone SE 3—thanks to the efficient A18 chip and Apple’s first in-house 5G modem, the C1.
3. Innovative Features
The iPhone 16e supports Apple’s AI-driven features, known as Apple Intelligence, ensuring it will receive updates and improvements for years. One notable feature is Visual Intelligence, which provides information about objects through the camera. Additionally, the new Action Button, first introduced on the iPhone 15 Pro, replaces the traditional mute switch and allows users to customize shortcuts for quick access to features like the camera and flashlight.
iPhone 16e: 1 Reason to Skip
Pricing Could Be Better
Despite its strengths, the iPhone 16e’s starting price of Rs 59,900 may deter some buyers. It lacks a second camera lens and does not support MagSafe accessories. Moreover, the price difference between the iPhone 16e and the iPhone 16 is minimal, with the latter available for as low as Rs 65,000 during sales. With the iPhone 17 series expected to launch soon, the iPhone 16 may see further discounts, making it a more attractive option. If the price difference narrows to around Rs 5,000, it might be worth considering the iPhone 16 instead. A starting price of Rs 50,000 for the iPhone 16e would have made it a more compelling choice. For now, it’s a solid phone, but waiting for a price drop or opting for the iPhone 16 could be wise if you can stretch your budget.
