After months of rumors, Apple finally released the iPhone 16e as its latest budget iPhone model. It arrives as the most affordable option in the iPhone 16 lineup and is a spiritual successor to the iPhone SE series as well. But for a slightly more affordable price tag, Apple had to cut corners on this new device. So here’s a list of all the missing features and whether it is worth buying.
Wireless MagSafe charging has been a staple feature on the iPhone since the iPhone 12 series. Android manufacturers are only now slowly adopting the magnetic wireless charging feature, but the Cupertino based giant has decided to skip this on the iPhone 16e. While this isn’t entirely a crucial feature, there are many that relies on this technology and use it on a daily.
2. Missing Camera
The vanilla model from Apple’s flagship iPhones typically feature a dual camera setup that includes a primary and ultra wide angle lens. On the other hand, the Pro models pack an additional periscope telephoto camera for zoom shots. But for the iPhone 16e, the company decided to remove even the ultra wide angle lens. So you only get a single camera on the back. This does offer 2x optical zoom like quality, but no ultra wide capabilities.
3. Dedicated Camera Button
Apple iPhone 16e arrives with integration of Apple Intelligence that brings access to a bunch of AI powered tools and features. But while you’re getting this software feature that is also available on the iPhone 16 lineup, you’re skipping the dedicated button for camera control on the hardware side. To recall, this feature basically lets users have wider control over the camera functions with just a single button.
4. Dynamic Island
The Dynamic Island feature for the display was first introduced along with the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max. With the iPhone 15 series, this feature became common across all four models. This was then continued all the way to the iPhone 16 lineup but was now skipped on the iPhone 16e. It is unclear why Apple made this move, considering how it’s almost the same size and shape as the base iPhone 16.
5. Lack of Precision Tracking for AirTags & AirPods
The iPhone 16e is the first to feature the new C1 modem, marking a shift away from Qualcomm’s Snapdragon modems. But this new chipset comes at the cost of the budget iPhone losing the UWB chip (Ultrawideband). The lack of this chip means that users don’t get access to the precision tracking that is support on the Apple AirTags and AirPods.
6. So is it worth buying?
The iPhone 16e sits in a very awkward spot among the Apple iPhone lineup. For just a little more money, you can get your hands on the iPhone 15 and get a more feature packed model. Even with its “budget” positioning, Apple has basically confirmed how the iPhone is a premium product regardless of the variant. You’re still paying a hefty sum for the barebones from Apple.
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