Apple iPhone 16e: Apple A18 bionic chip, 48MP OiS Main for $X99
Apple iPhone 16e Review: A Budget iPhone with Flagship Power
The Apple iPhone 16e is Apple’s latest take on a budget-friendly iPhone, officially released on February 19, 2025. While many expected it to be named the iPhone SE 4, Apple went in a new direction, introducing the iPhone 16e as a lighter yet powerful version of the flagship iPhone 16. Powered by the same cutting-edge A18 Bionic chipset as the premium models, the iPhone 16e bridges the gap between affordability and performance in a sleek, modern package.
If you're searching for the apple 16e, iphone16e, or even 16e iPhone, this review breaks down everything you need to know before making a purchase.
Apple iPhone 16e Key Specifications
- Release date: February 19, 2025
- Dimensions: 146.7 x 71.5 x 7.8 mm; Weight: 167g
- Display: 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED, 60Hz, HDR10, 1200 nits (peak)
- Chipset: Apple A18 Bionic (3nm)
- Battery life: Up to 26 hours
- Cameras: Rear 48MP, Front 12MP
- Operating System: iOS 18.4
Sleek, Minimalist Design
The iPhone 16 e showcases a refreshed design with a flat aluminum frame, coming in at just 7.8mm thick and 167 grams in weight. Unlike the iPhone 16, the iPhone 16e Apple features the classic notch design rather than the newer Dynamic Island. The notch houses a selfie camera, Face ID sensors, and a front speaker.
On the rear, Apple opts for simplicity with a single 48MP main camera and LED flash. The back glass is premium and available in two classic colors: black and white. The device is IP68-rated for dust and water resistance, and its compact form factor makes it easy to handle.
- Right: Power button
- Left: Action button, volume controls
- Bottom: USB Type-C 2.0 port, speaker grill
- Top: Clean, button-free design
- SIM: Dual eSIM support (U.S. variant only)
Vibrant Super Retina Display
The Apple 16e phone is equipped with a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. With a resolution of 1170 x 2532 pixels and a pixel density of 460ppi, it offers sharp, vibrant visuals. The 60Hz refresh rate may not match higher-end iPhones, but it’s more than sufficient for most everyday tasks.
Brightness peaks at 1200 nits, delivering excellent outdoor visibility. HDR10 support ensures richer colors and better contrast while streaming content.
A18 Bionic: Flagship Performance
One of the most impressive aspects of the Apple iPhone 16 e is its performance. Powered by Apple’s 3nm A18 Bionic chip—the same one used in the iPhone 16 series—this device offers true flagship-level speed and efficiency at a much lower price point.
- 2 high-performance cores @ 4.04GHz
- 4 efficiency cores @ 2.20GHz
- Single-core: 3381
- Multi-core: 8035
- AnTuTu Score: 1405699
iOS 18.4 and Apple Intelligence
Running iOS 18.4, the 16e Apple phone includes all the latest features of Apple’s software ecosystem. One standout is Apple Intelligence, a privacy-focused AI assistant that enhances productivity, writing, and communication while keeping your personal data secure—even from Apple itself.
- Bluetooth 5.3
- Wi-Fi 6
Battery Life and Charging
The Apple iPhone 16e houses a 3,455mAh Li-Ion battery, offering up to 26 hours of usage on a single charge. While the 7.5W charging speed may not be the fastest on the market, the efficiency of the A18 chip ensures extended battery performance throughout the day.
Camera Capabilities
Unlike some of the dual or triple-camera setups on higher-end models, the i phone 16 e keeps it simple with a single 48MP rear camera featuring OIS (optical image stabilization). The front camera is a 12MP selfie shooter.
Both cameras support 4K video recording at 60fps, making the iPhone 16e Apple great for content creators, casual users, and professionals alike.
iPhone 16e Price and Availability
The phone 16e offers premium features at an affordable price point, positioning itself as a compelling alternative to pricier flagship models.
- 128GB + 8GB RAM: $599
- 256GB + 8GB RAM: $699
- 512GB + 8GB RAM: $899
- €729 (128GB)
- €859 (256GB)
- €1109 (512GB)
- £599 (128GB)
- £699 (256GB)
- £899 (512GB)
Final Verdict
The Apple 16e or 16 e iPhone stands out in 2025 as a well-rounded, budget-friendly device with premium internals. From its powerful A18 chip to a top-tier OLED display and reliable camera system, the iPhone 16e offers tremendous value for its price.
Whether you're a student, a budget-conscious professional, or someone upgrading from an older iPhone, the Apple iPhone 16e—also referred to as the 16e iPhone, apple 16e phone, or 16e apple phone—is one of the smartest choices this year.