Apple has released its latest budget-friendly smartphone, the iPhone 16e, which serves as the successor to the iPhone SE line. While the device offers impressive features like exceptional battery life and a 48-megapixel camera, it comes with some notable compromises to maintain its affordability compared to the standard iPhone 16 lineup.
Missing MagSafe Functionality
One of the most significant omissions in the iPhone 16e is the lack of MagSafe technology. Unlike its pricier siblings, the iPhone 16e doesn't include the magnetic array that enables MagSafe's convenient snap-on charging and accessories. Instead, the device supports traditional Qi wireless charging at a maximum of 7.5W, which is notably slower than the MagSafe standard. This design choice clearly differentiates the budget model from Apple's premium offerings.
iPhone 16e Key Features:
- Supports Qi wireless charging (7.5W max)
- Custom 48-megapixel main camera
- Apple C1 modem for improved efficiency
- Redesigned internals with larger battery
- Audio Mix feature for video sound editing
- Visual Intelligence accessible via Control Center and Action Button
- Ships with iOS 18.3, requires update to iOS 18.3.1
Adding MagSafe Compatibility
For users who still want MagSafe functionality, there are two straightforward solutions. The first and most reliable option is purchasing a case with built-in MagSafe magnets, which are widely available from various manufacturers. Alternatively, users can add a magnetic sticker to their existing case, such as ESR's ultra-thin 0.4mm magnetic ring. However, these stickers only work with polycarbonate or TPU cases without fingerprint-resistant coatings.
MagSafe Workaround Options:
- MagSafe-compatible case with built-in magnets
- Magnetic sticker (like ESR's 0.4mm ring) for compatible cases
- Only works with polycarbonate or TPU cases
- Not compatible with fingerprint-resistant coatings
Impressive Battery Performance
The iPhone 16e boasts exceptional battery life, which Apple claims is the best of any iPhone with a 6.1-inch display. This impressive endurance stems from multiple factors beyond just the new Apple C1 modem (described as the most power-efficient ever in an iPhone). The device benefits from Apple's efficient silicon architecture and features a completely redesigned internal layout that accommodates a larger battery.
Custom Camera System
While both the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16e feature 48-megapixel main cameras, they aren't identical. The iPhone 16e's camera has been specially designed for the device with a custom sensor and lens system optimized to work together. This suggests Apple has carefully balanced performance and cost considerations rather than simply using older components.
Software Considerations
The iPhone 16e ships with iOS 18.3 but requires an immediate update to iOS 18.3.1. The setup process handles this seamlessly, though users should be prepared for a two-stage initialization process. Interestingly, the device retains the Audio Mix feature from the premium iPhone 16 lineup, allowing users to reconfigure audio after recording video, including removing unwanted voices.
Visual Intelligence Implementation
In a surprising move, the iPhone 16e includes Visual Intelligence capabilities that can be launched through Control Center or the Action Button—functionality that even the iPhone 16 and iPhone 15 Pro currently lack (though Apple has confirmed these devices will receive this capability in a future update). This AI-powered feature allows users to point their camera at objects to receive relevant information such as business hours.
Market Positioning
The iPhone 16e represents Apple's continued commitment to offering a more affordable entry point into its ecosystem without completely sacrificing modern features. While compromises like the absence of MagSafe clearly position it below the standard iPhone 16, the inclusion of features like the 48-megapixel camera and Visual Intelligence demonstrates Apple's effort to deliver value at a lower price point.