Apple officially launched its newest low-cost model, the iPhone 16e, on Wednesday, seeking to expand its reach in the mid-range smartphone market and compete against rivals like Samsung and Huawei. The iPhone 16e, part of the iPhone 16 lineup, aims to deliver powerful capabilities at a more affordable price.
Pricing and Availability in the UAE
The iPhone 16e will be available in the UAE for Dh2,599. Pre-orders will begin on February 21 at 5:00 pm local time in 59 countries, including the UAE, with shipments starting on February 28.
A Shift in Naming Convention
Moving away from the SE naming convention for its budget series, Apple’s iPhone 16e is designed to rival popular Android smartphones, especially as consumer electronics manufacturers increasingly incorporate artificial intelligence tools into their devices.
Performance and Features
The iPhone 16e is powered by the A18 chip, the same chip used in the more expensive iPhone 16 models launched in September of last year, and will support Apple Intelligence out of the box. It features a 6.1-inch OLED display with a 60Hz refresh rate, an aluminum body, and a Face ID for security. The device also includes a USB-C port and offers up to six hours more battery life than the iPhone 11. It is also IP68-rated for water and dust resistance.
Apple Intelligence
The iPhone 16e is Apple’s most affordable device to support Apple Intelligence. This suite of features includes integrated access to ChatGPT, allowing users to clean up photos, search images using natural language, and utilize AI-powered tools like Image Playground and Genmoji. Siri is also more advanced, with improved contextual understanding and ChatGPT integration.
Design and Build
Available in white and black, the iPhone 16e comes in 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB storage options. There will also be a range of iPhone 16e silicone cases available in five colors: winter blue, fuchsia, lake green, black, and white.
Global Pricing Details
Here’s a comparison of the iPhone 16e prices in different regions:
- India: Prices start at Rs 59,900 for the 128GB variant, Rs 69,900 for 256GB, and Rs 89,900 for 512 GB.
- Japan: Priced at 99,800 yen (including tax) or 4,158 yen per month for 24 months.
- USA: Starting price of $599 or $24.95 per month for 24 months.
- UK: Available from £599 or £24.96 per month for 24 months.
A18 Chip and Apple C1 Modem
The iPhone 16e features the A18 chip and the new Apple C1, Apple’s first cellular modem. This combination provides fast performance and improved battery life.
Camera Enhancements
The device sports a 48MP Fusion camera, allowing users to zoom in with optical quality. It also has an integrated 2x Telephoto.
Satellite Connectivity
The iPhone 16e includes Apple’s satellite features, such as Emergency SOS, Roadside Assistance, Messages, and Find My via satellite, for connectivity in areas without cellular or Wi-Fi coverage.
Expert Commentary
Kaiann Drance, Apple’s vice president of Worldwide iPhone Product Marketing, stated that the iPhone 16e includes features users appreciate from the iPhone 16 lineup, such as battery life, fast performance, a 2-in-1 camera system, and Apple Intelligence. She added her excitement that the iPhone 16e completes the lineup as a more affordable option.
