KKN Gurugram Desk | Apple officially launched the iPhone 16e in India on February 19, 2025, with sales starting on February 28. Priced at ₹59,900, the iPhone 16e is now the most affordable option in the iPhone 16 series. As the iPhone 16e hits the market, it brings the power of Apple’s latest technology to more consumers, making it an attractive proposition for budget-conscious buyers who want an iPhone without breaking the bank.

This model has generated quite a buzz in the tech world, especially since it marks Apple’s push to make more advanced features available at a lower price point. While some hail the iPhone 16e as a breakthrough, others have had mixed reactions due to its pricing. However, the iPhone 16e has certainly stirred up interest, as reflected by its search trends and consumer attention in India and globally.

Key Features of the iPhone 16e

The iPhone 16e, often described as a more affordable version of the iPhone 16, comes with several notable features. It is also the first iPhone to incorporate Apple’s in-house modem, the C1, which replaces the Qualcomm modems used in previous models. Here are some of the standout features of the iPhone 16e:

1. Design and Build:
   The iPhone 16e has a design inspired by the iPhone 14. The 6.1-inch OLED screen offers a 60Hz refresh rate, similar to previous iPhone models, but the design features a wide notch at the top, which is characteristic of older iPhone models like the iPhone 14. The addition of the Action Button is also a new feature in this series, providing greater functionality.

2. Chipset and Performance:
   The A18 chip powers the iPhone 16e. While it is the same chipset used in the iPhone 16, the 16e version has one less GPU core. This “binned” version of the A18 chip still offers impressive processing power and improved AI capabilities via Apple Intelligence, making it a powerful device despite being positioned as a more affordable option.

3. Camera Capabilities:
   For photography, the iPhone 16e features a 48-megapixel main camera. This camera is marketed as a “2-in-1” sensor, providing improved optical clarity, including a 2x optical zoom. While the camera is capable of recording 4K videos, it lacks some of the advanced features found in its higher-end counterparts, such as macro photography or spatial video recording.

4. Battery and Charging:
   The iPhone 16e supports Qi wireless charging up to 7.5W, but it does not include support for MagSafe charging, a feature found on more expensive iPhone models. While the charging speed may be slower compared to more premium iPhones, this is to be expected in a budget model.

5. Connectivity:
   The iPhone 16e comes with the C1 modem, Apple’s first proprietary modem. This modem is designed to improve efficiency and performance, but it lacks support for mmWave 5G, which limits its 5G capabilities when compared to other models in the iPhone 16 series. Nonetheless, it supports standard 5G networks, which should be sufficient for most users in regions with good 5G coverage.

iPhone 16e Pricing in India and Global Comparison

In terms of pricing, the iPhone 16e starts at ₹59,900 for the 128GB model, ₹69,900 for the 256GB model, and ₹89,900 for the 512GB version. While the iPhone 16e is priced lower than its counterparts in the iPhone 16 series, its pricing has still been a point of contention. For many, this model represents a great value considering it is a budget-friendly option with the latest features from Apple, especially when compared to previous budget iPhone models like the iPhone SE series.

Comparing the iPhone 16e with other iPhone models in the market, we can see that while the pricing is more affordable than flagship models, it is still quite a significant investment for users looking for a budget-friendly iPhone. For instance, the iPhone 15 still holds some appeal with its lower pricing, while the iPhone 15 Pro is also available at a lower price through third-party retailers, though it has been officially discontinued by Apple.

Global pricing for the iPhone 16e is also in line with its Indian pricing, offering similar affordability in other regions such as the US, UK, and Dubai. Despite being the most affordable iPhone in the 16 series, the iPhone 16e’s cost has still led to a polarizing reaction from potential customers.

The Growing Interest in the iPhone 16 Series

The iPhone 16e’s launch has sparked an uptick in searches for the iPhone 16 series, as evidenced by Google Trends data. In the weeks leading up to the launch, searches for iPhone 16 saw a significant rise, surpassing interest in both the iPhone 15 and the newly launched iPhone 16e. This suggests that more consumers are focusing on the iPhone 16, likely due to its overall appeal, advanced features, and improved performance.

The iPhone 16e does see an initial surge in interest, likely due to the excitement surrounding its launch. However, the iPhone 16 continues to maintain a steady and higher level of interest, indicating that consumers are more inclined towards the newer model with its complete set of features. This surge in interest demonstrates the potential success of the iPhone 16e, as many users are actively considering the model, despite the mixed reactions regarding its pricing.

Is the iPhone 16e Really Affordable?

Apple has positioned the iPhone 16e as the most affordable iPhone in the 16 series. However, at a starting price of ₹59,900, some people are questioning whether it can truly be considered “budget-friendly.” For those who have been accustomed to Apple’s previous budget offerings, such as the iPhone SE 3, the price point of the iPhone 16e feels a little high for what it offers.

In comparison to other smartphones in the same price range from brands like Samsung and OnePlus, the iPhone 16e could be seen as a little expensive for the features it provides. While it has the latest A18 chip and Apple Intelligence, it lacks certain features like mmWave 5G, MagSafe charging, and advanced camera capabilities, which some users may expect from a phone at this price.

On the other hand, the iPhone 16e’s AI features and the C1 modem make it stand out among other budget smartphones, and it may appeal to users who prioritize Apple’s ecosystem and software experience. Its design, performance, and the inclusion of Apple’s AI technology give it a leg up over other budget devices in the market.

iPhone 16e: A Successor to the iPhone SE 3?

Many have pointed out that the iPhone 16e feels like a spiritual successor to the iPhone SE 3, but it’s important to note that Apple has officially discontinued the iPhone SE line with the launch of the iPhone 16e. The iPhone SE series was Apple’s answer to offering affordable iPhones, and it was loved by many users who wanted a more budget-friendly option without compromising too much on performance.

With the iPhone 16e, Apple has essentially removed its budget iPhone line and replaced it with a more powerful but higher-priced alternative. This shift may signal a change in Apple’s strategy, where budget-conscious consumers are no longer offered the same value proposition they received from the iPhone SE series. As a result, the iPhone 16e is positioned as the new entry-level iPhone, appealing to those who want the latest tech in an affordable package.

The launch of the iPhone 16e marks an important step for Apple, offering a more affordable option within the iPhone 16 series. With features like the A18 chip, Apple Intelligence, and C1 modem, the iPhone 16e brings the power of the latest iPhone technology to a broader audience. However, its pricing has left some potential buyers questioning its true affordability, especially when compared to other brands offering similar features at a lower cost.

For Apple enthusiasts who are loyal to the brand and value the iOS ecosystem, the iPhone 16e represents a solid option. The camera, performance, and AI features make it appealing for budget-conscious consumers who don’t want to compromise on the Apple experience. But for those looking for the absolute best value for their money, it may be worth exploring other options in the market.

Ultimately, the iPhone 16e has the potential to succeed in the market, particularly in India, where demand for budget iPhones is strong. The question remains whether its pricing is truly affordable enough for the broader audience it is meant to serve. Only time will tell whether the iPhone 16e can live up to the expectations set by Apple.