Apple Begins Pre-Orders for iPhone 16e Starting at $599 for 128GB Storage Model

Apple has officially introduced the iPhone 16e, its latest budget-friendly model that aims to deliver premium features without the premium price tag. As the company phases out older versions, the iPhone 16e starts at a competitive price of $599 for the 128GB variant in the United States. Additionally, consumers can opt for larger storage capacities: a 256GB model is priced at $699, while the 512GB version retails for $899, all available for pre-order.

The iPhone 16e comes equipped with a 6.1-inch LTPS OLED display, marking a shift in design with the removal of the physical home button. However, prospective buyers should note that this new model does not include a Dynamic Island feature, relying instead on the traditional notch design. Inside, the device is powered by a binned version of the A18 chipset, approximately 15% slower than its full-spec counterpart, based on benchmarking analyses, although it maintains the same CPU core count.

With its 6-core CPU and 4-core GPU, paired with 8GB of RAM, the iPhone 16e supports Apple Intelligence, positioning it as an attractive option for discerning customers. Camera specifications include a robust 48MP rear sensor alongside a 12MP front-facing camera. A crucial point to note is that the iPhone 16e does not utilize a Qualcomm 5G modem; instead, it features a custom-designed C1 baseband chip from Apple, which promises enhanced power efficiency and improved battery life compared to other 6.1-inch iPhones to date.

The reception to the iPhone 16e’s pricing has been varied among analysts and consumers. Notably, industry expert Ming-Chi Kuo projects that Apple could ship around 22 million units in 2025, leading to an impressive estimated revenue of $13.178 billion. However, market reactions will ultimately determine the model’s success. As consumer feedback rolls in, we will keep an eye on the iPhone 16e’s market performance.