iPhone 16e : everything you need to know about Apple's new model

With the iPhone 16e, Apple promises a more affordable smartphone than the iPhone 16, while retaining the core performance and design of this recently released model. It's a strategic move to attract a larger audience, without sacrificing power or user experience.

This repositioning was especially necessary as the iPhone SE3 had been disappointing last year. Its outdated design and limited features failed to impress, especially in the face of increasingly aggressive competition in the affordable smartphone segment. Apple had to return to the competition with a more modern and better-balanced model.

So, why does Apple seem to be abandoning the SE range, long seen as the affordable alternative to the classic iPhone? Does this repositioning mark a turning point for the brand? How is this launch reshaping retailers’ business opportunities in the refurbished smartphone market?
Let’s break down the new features of this model, its differences, positioning, and its impact on the refurbished smartphone market.

iPhone 16e VS iPhone 16 : wat are the similarities?

1. A 6.1-inch OLED display, but limited to 60 Hz

This is brand new for this SE equivalent: the OLED screen makes its debut for a high-end experience!

• 60 Hz OLED display (vs 120 Hz on the iPhone 16 Pro)

The iPhone 16e borrows OLED technology from its big brother, offering vibrant colors and infinite contrast. However, it is limited to 60 Hz, while the iPhone 16 Pro retains the 120 Hz refresh rate. This results in slightly less smooth animations and scrolling.

• Premium visual quality despite the frequency difference

Despite this limitation, the display is still vastly superior to the LCD screens of the older iPhone SE models. The high definition and OLED technology ensure optimal visual comfort for browsing, video, and gaming, with deep blacks and excellent brightness.

2. The A18 chip for more power and efficiency

Goodbye to the A15 Bionic chip from the SE3! The iPhone 16e comes equipped with the A18 chip for stronger performance.

• Same chip as the iPhone 16

The A18 chip ensures power on par with premium models. This next-gen chip guarantees excellent fluidity, whether it's for multitasking, gaming, or power-hungry apps.

• Improved battery life and smoother performance

Thanks to this optimized chip, the iPhone 16e offers better battery life compared to the previous SE models. The energy efficiency allows it to last longer on a single charge, while providing smoother animations and transitions.

3. A universal USB-C port

The Lightning port is officially abandoned by Apple in favor of USB-C: a difficult choice for the brand but a necessary one for its business.

• Impact of European regulations on this decision

Like all new iPhones, Apple is complying with the European Union's requirements set out by the USB-C law. This change marks the end of Apple’s proprietary connector, which has been in use for over 10 years.

• Compatibility with a variety of accessories

USB-C offers more versatility, allowing users to use universal cables and chargers, as well as connect a range of devices like external monitors or hard drives. A welcome change for users seeking practicality.

4. The Action Button comes to the SE range

Introduced on the iPhone 15 Pro, the Action Button replaces the old mute switch on all of Apple’s recent models.

• Customization of features

The Action Button allows users to assign custom actions such as opening the camera, activating the flashlight, or launching a specific shortcut.

• An evolution inspired by premium models

With this innovation, Apple brings a feature once reserved for premium models to a more affordable iPhone. A way to modernize the user experience and make the iPhone 16e even more versatile.

What are the differences between the iPhone 16e and the iPhone 16?

1. A more affordable price, but with some compromises

With a €250 price difference from the iPhone 16, the iPhone 16e positions itself as a more accessible alternative, but at what cost?

• Some technical concessions

This price reduction is mainly due to compromises in the screen and photography departments, while still maintaining solid overall performance.

• A positioning aimed at a broader audience

Apple aims to attract a wider audience, especially those who want a powerful iPhone without paying the full price. The iPhone 16e thus becomes an excellent choice for users seeking price-quality ratio, while still enjoying a modern design and cutting-edge performance.

2. A single 48 MP camera sensor

This might be a disappointment for some and a surprise for others: the iPhone 16e keeps a single 48 MP camera sensor.

• No ultra-wide sensor

Unlike the iPhone 16, the 16e does not include an ultra-wide sensor. This limits options for landscape or wide-angle photography, but allows Apple to offer a more competitive price.

• Image quality and digital zoom capabilities

Thanks to its high-resolution sensor, the iPhone 16e offers very good image quality, especially in good lighting conditions. It relies on an optimized digital zoom to compensate for the lack of a second sensor, but photography enthusiasts may miss the versatility.

3. Traditional charging without MagSafe and Qi2

Introduced with the iPhone 15, MagSafe and Qi2 enable wireless charging of the smartphone. The iPhone 16e skips this innovation.

• No MagSafe magnets for accessories

Unlike higher-end models, the iPhone 16e lacks integrated magnets for attaching accessories like external batteries or magnetic stands.

• Impact on user experience

This absence limits compatibility with some Apple accessories and forces users to rely on standard wireless chargers, which are often less efficient. It’s a compromise that may frustrate users accustomed to the convenience of MagSafe, but it aligns with the pricing strategy for a more affordable model.

4. No Dynamic Island, but Face ID finally here

Dynamic Island made a lasting impression when it was introduced on the iPhone 14 Pro! This interactive notch, which displays real-time notifications and ongoing activities, became a signature feature for Apple and gained many users' admiration.

• No interactive display at the top of the screen

Unlike the iPhone 16, the 16e doesn’t feature Dynamic Island. This choice simplifies the design but removes a signature feature that has become iconic in recent models.

• Transition to Face ID and the end of Touch ID

Here it is! The iPhone 16e marks the end of Touch ID in the SE range with the long-awaited introduction of Face ID. A change that modernizes the user experience and aligns this model with the rest of the iPhone range.

The real novelty of the Apple iPhone 16e: the C1 chip

1. The first 5G modem designed by Apple

Apple takes a major step towards technological independence by integrating its own 5G modem into the iPhone 16e.

• Replacing Qualcomm modems

Until now, Apple has used 5G modems supplied by Qualcomm, but the iPhone 16e introduces the internally-designed C1 chip. This change gives Apple complete control over network optimization and power management.

• Goal of cost optimization and technological independence

By developing its own modem chip, Apple reduces its reliance on external suppliers and gains better control over production costs. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to strengthen its hardware and software ecosystem.

2. A strategic bet for Apple's future

This technological choice isn’t just about the iPhone 16e: if the C1 chip proves successful, it will mark a major turning point for all future iPhones.

• Why is Apple developing its own chip?

Designing an in-house modem allows Apple to optimize network performance while reducing reliance on third-party suppliers. This autonomy provides more flexibility to innovate on future generations of smartphones.

• Impact on future iPhone and network connectivity

In the long term, this transition could improve 5G network management, reduce energy consumption, and even lay the groundwork for the arrival of 6G. Although this first version is a test phase, it signals a lasting transformation in the architecture of future iPhone.

iPhone 16e: new features and impact on refurbished devices

1. A good choice in 2025?

The iPhone 16e succeeds in its goal: offering a modern, high-performing iPhone at a more affordable price with minimal compromises. It targets users looking for a reliable, smooth, and well-equipped device without necessarily investing in a Pro model.

However, its higher price and some technical compromises may divide opinions. It remains to be seen whether consumers will be ready to embrace this new vision of Apple’s "essential" model when it hits stores on February 28, 2025.

2. What are the business opportunities for the refurbished market?

The introduction of new smartphone models like the iPhone 16e leads to an increase in trade-ins of older devices. This presents a significant opportunity for retailers specializing in refurbished products, as this trend reflects a growing demand for more recent smartphones at more affordable prices; consumers are increasingly inclined to turn to refurbished models. Given this, how can stores adapt to optimize their sales?

Retailers can capitalize on this trend by optimizing their strategies for promoting refurbished products. In an environment where customers are looking for competitive prices and reliable devices, it becomes essential to integrate these products into in-store offerings and highlight their benefits.

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