Apple unveiled the iPhone 16e today, bringing its AI-powered Apple Intelligence features to a more affordable price point. The new $599 device replaces the iPhone 14 in Apple's lineup, offering advanced AI capabilities but making some compromises compared to its predecessors.

The iPhone 16e is powered by Apple's A18 chip, featuring a 16-core Neural Engine capable of 35 trillion operations per second. This enables the full suite of Apple Intelligence features, including AI-powered writing tools, image generation, and enhanced Siri functionality with ChatGPT integration.

However, the iPhone 16e makes some notable trade-offs compared to the iPhone 14 it replaces. Gone is the ultra-wide camera, with Apple opting for a single 48-megapixel main sensor that offers 2x optical zoom instead. The device also lacks support for MagSafe charging, limiting users to standard Qi wireless charging at 7.5W.

Apple Intelligence takes center stage

The iPhone 16e's headline feature is its support for Apple Intelligence, which was previously limited to the more expensive iPhone 16 series. This includes:

  • Writing Tools: AI-powered proofreading, rewriting, and tone adjustment
  • Image Playground: Generate and customize images based on text descriptions
  • Enhanced Siri: Improved natural language processing and ChatGPT integration
  • Visual Intelligence: Real-time information about objects and scenes through the camera

Apple emphasizes that many AI processes run on-device, maintaining user privacy. When cloud processing is required, users are prompted for consent.

Camera changes and design

The iPhone 16e features a new 48MP "Fusion Camera" system. While it loses the ultra-wide lens found on the iPhone 14, Apple claims the new sensor offers improved low-light performance and enables 2x optical zoom. The device retains support for 4K video recording at up to 60fps.

Visually, the iPhone 16e closely resembles the iPhone 14, featuring a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. One notable addition is the customizable Action Button, replacing the traditional mute switch.

Battery life and charging

Apple claims the iPhone 16e offers up to six hours more video playback time compared to the iPhone 14. However, the device drops support for MagSafe charging, a feature present on recent iPhone models. The iPhone 16e does adopt USB-C charging, aligning with EU regulations and potentially simplifying cable management for users with multiple devices.

Pricing and availability

The iPhone 16e is priced at $599, the same starting point as the iPhone 14 it replaces. Pre-orders begin on February 21, 2025, with availability in 59 countries starting February 28.

The iPhone 16e represents a significant change in Apple's lineup strategy. By bringing AI features to a lower price point, Apple aims to make its latest technology more accessible. However, the removal of features like the ultra-wide camera and MagSafe charging may disappoint some potential buyers who were considering older models.

As the smartphone market becomes increasingly competitive, Apple's focus on AI capabilities in its mid-range offering could help differentiate the iPhone 16e from similarly priced Android devices. The success of this strategy will likely depend on how compelling consumers find the Apple Intelligence features compared to the hardware trade-offs.