The Apple iPhone 16e, released in early 2025, is Apple’s most affordable model in the iPhone 16 lineup. It features a 6.1-inch OLED display, A18 chip, 8GB RAM, and a 48MP main camera with 2x optical zoom. It supports Apple Intelligence, Face ID, and includes the Action Button. However, it skips MagSafe, ultrawide cameras, and mmWave 5G.
Overview & Positioning
- Announcement & Availability: Apple revealed the iPhone 16e on February 19, 2025, with availability starting from February 28, 2025.
- Market Fit: Positioned as the most accessible model in the iPhone 16 lineup—akin to the spirit of the iPhone SE series—it delivers essential modern iPhone features at a more reachable price.
Design & Display
- Body & Build: Sporting an aluminum frame with a glass back and front protected by Ceramic Shield, the iPhone 16e bucks the premium glass-and-stainless trend with its lighter and robust build. It’s available only in Black and White.
- Dimensions: 146.7 × 71.5 × 7.8 mm, weighing approximately 167 g.
- Display: A 6.1‑inch Super Retina XDR OLED panel with 1170 × 2532 px resolution (~460 ppi), HDR capability, and up to 1200 nits peak brightness.
Performance & Software
- Chipset: Powered by Apple A18 (3 nm, hexa-core CPU) and 4-core GPU. It supports Apple Intelligence features and comes with 8 GB RAM.
- Software: Ships with iOS 18.3.1 and is upgradable up to iOS 18.5. It includes expanded Apple Intelligence tools like GenMoji, Image Playground, Clean Up, and advanced Siri capabilities.
Camera
- Rear Camera: A single 48 MP “Fusion” sensor featuring 2x in‑sensor optical zoom, f/1.6 aperture, autofocus, OIS, and capable of capturing up to 4K video at 60 fps.
- Front Camera: 12 MP TrueDepth camera with autofocus and 4K video support.
- Note: Missing features include ultrawide/macro cameras and the Camera Control button.
Connectivity & Features
- Modem & Connectivity: Uses Apple’s own C1 modem supporting sub‑6 GHz 5G (no mmWave), Wi‑Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, USB‑C (USB 2.0), and a collection of satellite-based emergency tools.
- Wireless Charging: Supports only standard Qi 7.5W wireless charging; no MagSafe nor Qi2.
- Action Button: Replaces the traditional mute switch, fully customizable to launch features like Visual Intelligence, shortcuts, or camera.
- Water Resistance: IP68 rating—resistant up to 6 meters for 30 minutes.
Battery & Charging
- Battery: 4005 mAh; offers up to 26 hours of video playback, 21 hours of streamed video, and 90 hours of audio.
- Charging: 20W wired fast charging (up to 50% in 30 minutes), plus slower 7.5W Qi wireless charging.
Miscellaneous
- Storage Variants: Available in 128 GB, 256 GB, and 512 GB—no expandable memory.
- Biometrics & Sensors: Includes Face ID, a suite of motion and proximity sensors, and crash detection.
- Build & Eco: Incorporates sustainable materials and is more repairable; battery lasts over 1,000 cycles to 80% capacity.
Apple iPhone 16e Global Pricing (at Launch)
- United States: Starting at $599 (128 GB), with options at $699 (256 GB) and $899 (512 GB).
- United Kingdom: £599.
- Europe: €699.
- Australia: AU$999.
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Apple iPhone 16e Pricing & Availability in the Philippines
- Official Pricing (Apple PH site):
- ₱39,990 (128 GB)
- ₱46,990 (256 GB)
- ₱58,990 (512 GB)
- Retail Price Updates: At launch, some retailers listed it as:
- 128 GB: ₱43,990
- 256 GB: ₱51,990
- 512 GB: ₱64,990
- Pre‑Order Timeline:
- Pre-orders: March 20–27, 2025
- Official availability from March 28, 2025
- Where to Buy:
- Authorized Resellers: Power Mac Center, Beyond the Box, Switch, iStudio, The Loop (Rustan’s/SM)
- Online Platforms: Apple PH website, Lazada, Shopee
- Telco Partners: Globe Platinum, Smart Infinity
Apple iPhone 16e Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Display | 6.1″ Super Retina XDR OLED, 1170×2532 resolution |
| Processor | A18 (6‑core CPU, 4‑core GPU) |
| RAM & Storage | 8 GB RAM; 128/256/512 GB |
| Cameras | 48 MP rear (1×/2× optical zoom); 12 MP front |
| Battery | 4,005 mAh; up to 26 h video playback |
| Charging | 20W wired fast charging; 7.5W Qi wireless (no MagSafe) |
| Connectivity | 5G (sub‑6 GHz), Wi‑Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, USB‑C, NFC, Satellite SOS |
| Durability | Aluminum + Ceramic Shield; IP68 |
| Special Features | Action Button, Apple C1 modem, Apple Intelligence, Face ID |
| Launch Price | USD $599 / £599 / €699 / AU$999 |
| PH Launch Price | ₱39,990 (128 GB official) |
Final Thoughts
The iPhone 16e stands out as the most affordable entry into Apple’s latest ecosystem, bundling the powerful A18 chip, advanced AI features, and a robust battery in a compact, durable package. It does, however, make trade-offs—no MagSafe, no ultrawide camera or ultra‑wideband, and only standard Qi wireless charging. If you’re after a fresh, capable iPhone without high-end frills, the 16e is a compelling pick—though the price still leans toward the premium segment.
