Apple's $599 iPhone 16E is the cheapest new phone that the company's released in years. Its debut Wednesday showcases a big rethink to how Apple presents itself for value-oriented shoppers.
On one hand, Apple's created a device that's built to last for years by including the same A18 processor that's shipping in the $799 iPhone 16. The device's similarities to the iPhone 16 don't end there, with a similar display size, screen resolution, a USB-C port and front-facing camera. While there are some obvious differences -- a single rear 48-megapixel main camera and the lack of a Dynamic Island notch -- plenty of shoppers might otherwise decide that these trade-offs are more than worth the "$200 discount" from the iPhone 16.
Yet there are a number of areas where the iPhone 16E falls short of my expectations, at least on paper, like where is MagSafe? I'm looking forward to trying out the iPhone 16E, but based on Wednesday's announcement, these are my early thoughts on what Apple's getting right with the iPhone 16E and what decisions the company's made that confuse me.
Watch this: The iPhone 16E Has Arrived 05:08
Pro: All of Apple's new iOS 18 features for $200 Less
Apple Intelligence is clearly a major focus for the iPhone 16E, and the A18 processor's inclusion allows for the new phone to be a compelling rival to similarly priced Android options with their own AI features like the $499 Google Pixel 8A, $600 OnePlus 13R and $650 Samsung Galaxy S24 FE.
All of these devices tout a similar value: An entry-level phone that lacks certain hardware features to maximize the software experience and new AI features.
On paper, this means that the iPhone 16E will not only be capable of the full Apple Intelligence suite -- encompassing GenMoji, text editing and ChatGPT integration -- but also able to run more complex games like Death Stranding and Resident Evil 4 Remake that are otherwise exclusive to the iPhone 15 Pro and later.
The iPhone 16E includes Apple Intelligence features like this integration with ChatGPT. Apple/CNET
Con: Apple's iPhone 16E is more expensive than the iPhone SE
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