Apple has officially introduced the iPhone 16e, a new addition to its iPhone 16 lineup that aims to deliver powerful features at a more accessible price point.
iPhone 16e features unpacked
The iPhone 16e is designed with the same sleek, modern aesthetic as its predecessors and is available in two matte finishes: black and white.
The device features a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with an edge-to-edge design, offering vibrant colours and crisp visuals. The Ceramic Shield front cover and the toughest back glass in a smartphone provide durability, along with an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance.
The iPhone 16e is powered by Apple’s latest A18 chip, delivering fast performance and exceptional battery life. The new Apple C1 modem, designed in-house, enhances connectivity with efficient 5G support.
The battery life is notably strong, lasting up to six hours longer than the iPhone 11 and up to 12 hours longer than all generations of the iPhone SE.
Apple’s personal intelligence system, Apple Intelligence, is also featured on the iPhone 16e, offering advanced AI capabilities while maintaining a strong focus on user privacy. The Clean Up tool, Image Playground, Genmoji, and Writing Tools are among the new features designed to enhance productivity and creativity.
The 48-megapixel Fusion camera system integrates a 2x Telephoto lens, effectively providing two cameras in one. The camera system supports advanced photography modes, including Night mode and Portrait mode, while video recording capabilities include 4K Dolby Vision at up to 60 frames per second.
The front-facing TrueDepth camera enhances Face ID security and enables high-quality selfies and video calls.
The device also includes Apple’s groundbreaking satellite features, allowing users to access Emergency SOS, Roadside Assistance, and Messages via satellite when out of cellular or Wi-Fi range. The Action button provides quick access to various functions, from opening the camera to activating accessibility features.
The iPhone 16e runs on iOS 18, introducing new customisation options, enhanced privacy features, and improved communication tools such as RCS support in Messages.
When is the iPhone 16e release date?
The iPhone 16e will be available for pre-order starting Friday, 21 February 2025.
Official availability will begin on Friday, 28 February 2025. Customers can purchase the device through Apple’s official website, authorised retailers, and selected network carriers.
iPhone 16e price in South Africa
The iPhone 16e is priced starting at $599 in the United States. While an exact South African price has not been specified in the provided information, using a direct conversion at current exchange rates, the expected price could be around R11,000, excluding potential taxes, import duties, and regional pricing adjustments.
South African consumers should keep an eye on Apple’s official South African website or visit local retailers for confirmed pricing and availability details.
The device will be available in 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB storage capacities, offering options to suit different needs and budgets.
