The Apple iPhone 16e, released on February 28, 2025, is a game-changer in Apple’s lineup, blending premium features with a budget-friendly price tag of approximately €588.99. Previously rumored as the iPhone SE (2025), this device offers a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, the powerful A18 chipset, and a 48MP camera, all in a sleek, lightweight design. In this review, we dive into its specifications, performance, and whether it’s the right choice for you.
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Design and Build
The iPhone 16e is compact and lightweight at 167g and 7.8mm thick, making it easy to carry and use single-handedly. It features a glass front and back with an aluminum frame, protected by Apple’s Ceramic Shield glass for enhanced durability. The phone is IP68 dust and water-resistant, capable of withstanding submersion up to 6 meters for 30 minutes. Available in Black and White, its minimalist design exudes elegance.
The 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display boasts a 1170 x 2532 resolution, HDR10, and a peak brightness of 1200 nits (799 nits measured). With an 87.1% screen-to-body ratio and 457 ppi density, it delivers vibrant colors and sharp visuals, perfect for media consumption and gaming.
Performance
Powered by the Apple A18 chipset (3nm) with a hexa-core CPU (2x4.04 GHz + 4x2.20 GHz) and 4-core Apple GPU, the iPhone 16e is a performance beast. It scored 1,401,105 on AnTuTu (v10), 8224 on GeekBench (v6), and 2850 on 3DMark (Wild Life Extreme), ensuring smooth multitasking, gaming, and productivity. Running iOS 18.3.1 (upgradable to iOS 18.5), it offers a seamless and intuitive user experience.
The phone comes with 8GB RAM and storage options of 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB (NVMe), though it lacks a microSD card slot. Features like Face ID, Emergency SOS via satellite, and Apple Pay add convenience and security.
Camera
The iPhone 16e features a single 48MP wide camera (f/1.6, 26mm, 1/2.55", 0.7µm, PDAF, OIS) that captures stunning photos with exceptional detail. It supports 4K video recording at up to 60fps, 1080p at up to 240fps, Dolby Vision HDR, and 3D spatial audio, making it ideal for content creators. Features like dual-LED flash, HDR, and panorama enhance its versatility.
The 12MP selfie camera (f/1.9, 23mm) with SL 3D depth/biometrics sensor delivers sharp selfies and supports 4K video at 60fps with HDR and 3D audio. Both cameras offer gyro-EIS for stable footage.
Battery and Charging
The 4005mAh Li-Ion battery provides solid endurance, with an active use score of 11:53 hours. It supports wired charging (50% in 30 minutes) and 7.5W Qi wireless charging. While not the fastest in its class, the battery life is reliable for daily use.
Connectivity and Features
The iPhone 16e supports 5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, and NFC for Apple Pay. It includes precise positioning with GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS, QZSS, and NavIC (cellular models). The phone uses a USB Type-C 2.0 port and offers stereo speakers with a loudness score of -25.7 LUFS (very good). However, it lacks a 3.5mm headphone jack and radio.
Sensors include Face ID, accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass, and barometer, ensuring a feature-rich experience. The phone supports eSIM (up to 8 in the USA, dual Nano-SIM in China) for flexible connectivity.
Pricing and Colors
Priced at €588.99 / $524.36 / £480.00 / ₹53,600, the iPhone 16e is a compelling option in the mid-range segment. It’s available in Black and White, offering a sleek and modern aesthetic.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Vibrant 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with HDR10.
- Powerful A18 chipset for top-tier performance.
- Impressive 48MP camera with 4K Dolby Vision HDR.
- IP68 water resistance and durable Ceramic Shield glass.
- Affordable price for an Apple device at €588.99.
Cons
- No microSD card slot for expandable storage.
- 7.5W wireless charging is relatively slow.
- No 3.5mm headphone jack or radio.
Verdict
The Apple iPhone 16e is a fantastic choice for those seeking premium Apple performance at a budget-friendly price. Its compact design, powerful A18 chip, and excellent 48MP camera make it stand out in the mid-range market. While it lacks expandable storage and faster wireless charging, the overall package is hard to beat for €588.99. Whether you’re an iOS fan or a first-time Apple buyer, the iPhone 16e delivers exceptional value.
*Price and availability may vary by region. Check with local retailers for the latest
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Apple iPhone 16e
1. When was the Apple iPhone 16e released?
The Apple iPhone 16e was announced on February 19, 2025, and released on February 28, 2025.
2. What are the key specifications of the iPhone 16e?
It features a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, Apple A18 chipset, 8GB RAM, 128GB/256GB/512GB storage, a 48MP main camera, a 12MP front camera, a 4005mAh battery, and runs iOS 18.3.1 (upgradable to 18.5).
3. Does the iPhone 16e support expandable storage?
No, the iPhone 16e does not have a microSD card slot. It is available with 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB internal storage.
4. What is the price of the iPhone 16e?
The iPhone 16e starts at approximately €588.99 / $524.36 / £480.00 / ₹53,600, with variations based on storage and region.
5. Is the iPhone 16e water-resistant?
Yes, the iPhone 16e has an IP68 rating, making it dust-tight and water-resistant up to 6 meters for 30 minutes.
6. What are the camera features of the iPhone 16e?
It has a 48MP wide main camera with HDR, panorama, and 4K video recording at up to 60fps with Dolby Vision HDR. The 12MP front camera supports 4K video at 60fps, HDR, and 3D spatial audio, both with gyro-EIS.
7. How is the battery life of the iPhone 16e?
The 4005mAh battery offers an active use score of 11:53 hours, with wired charging (50% in 30 minutes) and 7.5W wireless charging.
8. What colors are available for the iPhone 16e?
The iPhone 16e is available in Black and White.
9. Does the iPhone 16e have a headphone jack?
No, the iPhone 16e does not include a 3.5mm headphone jack.
10. What connectivity options does the iPhone 16e offer?
It supports 5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC (for Apple Pay), GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS, QZSS, NavIC, and USB Type-C 2.0. It does not support radio.
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