Feb 19, 2025 - Technology

Apple debuts iPhone 16e, a budget-friendly AI-powered device

Angrej Singh

Available in a popular 6.1-inch display size, iPhone 16e features breakthrough battery life, fast performance, a 48MP 2-in-1 camera system, and a beautiful, durable design. — Image: Apple

Apple on Wednesday announced a cheaper new version of the iPhone 16 called the iPhone 16e that features the company's latest A18 chip and Apple Intelligence.

Why it matters: The strategically priced iPhone 16e could capture a broader market, and having Apple Intelligence on a more affordable iPhone brings AI tools to consumers who are not willing to pay a higher price.

Driving the news: Apple's iPhone 16e is available to preorder this Friday starting at $599 — a price hike from the iPhone SE, which launched at $429 a few years ago.

The iPhone 16e will be available in black and white matte finishes.

Zoom in: It features a single 48-megapixel rear camera with an integrated 2x Telephoto lens, a feature typically reserved for higher-end models.

The Action button—previously limited to more expensive models—allows users to set shortcuts like launching the camera or using Shazam.
iPhone 16e also features ChatGPT integration within Siri and Writing Tools. Users can choose whether to enable ChatGPT integration.
The device comes with Apple's first in-house cellular modem, the C1, signaling Apple's break from Qualcomm and a move toward greater hardware independence.

What they're saying: Apple claims that iPhone 16e has the longest battery life of any 6.1-inch iPhone model so far. It supports up to 90 hours of audio playback and 26 hours of video playback.

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Apple debuts iPhone 16e, a budget-friendly AI-powered device

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