The Once-Laughed-At iPhone Is Now Apple’s Top-Selling Gem

When Apple unveiled the iPhone 16e earlier this year, quite a few people were confused and wondered who would actually purchase it. The device comes with just a lone camera, which performs adequately but isn't exceptional. Additionally, it lacks MagSafe functionality and features an outdated notch screen design along with several other limitations. Moreover, at $599, it seems rather expensive considering its offerings. However, something we overlooked is that not everybody craves or requires all those fancy extras.

Even though I personally embraced Apple’s more affordable iPhones such as the SE, I found it challenging to determine who would be the ideal user for this particular device.

Regarding the iPhone SE models, things were straightforward. People who preferred Touch ID could opt for the iPhone SE because the latest iPhones replaced it with Face ID. Additionally, this model cost less than $500. However, the iPhone 16e essentially follows the design of the iPhone 14 but comes with an increased price tag of $599, which is $100 higher.

How can we tell that the iPhone 16e is performing exceptionally well? While precise figures aren't available, data from research firm Counterpoint regarding smartphone shipments in Q1 offers some insights. In this period, Apple secured first place and saw an increase of 4% in unit shipments compared to Q1 2024. This is significant as Q1 usually belongs predominantly to Android with major releases like the Samsung Galaxy S series, OnePlus flagships, and numerous others unveiled during Mobile World Congress. The surge is probably attributed to theiPhone 16e, considering thatApple didn’t introduce anewcolor optionforanyothermodel withintheirown lineup.

What is driving the purchase of the iPhone 16e among consumers?

People are primarily purchasing the iPhone 16e due to its affordability and brand recognition. The inclusion of "16" in its model number leads many to assume it's part of an updated series, which indeed it is. Additionally, this particular version comes at a lower cost compared to other variants within the same lineup. Many consumers view several distinctive aspects of the iPhone 16e—such as the telephoto lens, ultrawide camera, dynamic island feature, or support for MagSafe—as unnecessary extras. Consequently, these individuals prefer opting for the more budget-friendly option priced at $599 instead of the higher-end variant available at $799.

That’s an aspect we critics, particularly those focusing on smartphones, must bear in mind. In terms of smartphone purchasers, we represent only a small fraction. The majority simply desire devices that function reliably; they'll hold onto them until they cease working, then repeat this cycle.

What these users desire is a smartphone that isn't sluggish and can last throughout the day without needing a recharge. Ideally, they prefer to plug their device into charge overnight so it reaches full battery—100%—by morning. This expectation has been met by both Apple and Google; specifically, Google offered similar high-level performance with the Tensor chipset in the Pixel 9a as well.

Both Google and Apple are doing something that other OEMs are not. That is providing flagship performance in a budget phone. Say what you will about Google and its Tensor chipsets, but that is “flagship power” for Pixel. Now with the iPhone 16e, Apple put in the A18 chipset, which is the same chipset as its $799 iPhone 16. However, it is missing a graphics core, which is not the end of the world, and I bet if you put these side-by-side, you wouldn’t even notice a difference.

Top-tier performance likewise entails support for many years ahead.

By incorporating the A18 chip into the iPhone 16e, this model includes all the capabilities found in the remainder of the iPhone 16 lineup — such as Apple Intelligence. Additionally, you can expect regular software updates for anywhere from 5 to possibly up to 7 years. While Apple does not officially commit to a specific duration for these updates, they typically range from 5 to 7 years, with some devices receiving them for up to 8 years.

This indicates that an individual can purchase the iPhone 16e today and continue using it for many years without losing functionality. This aspect enhances the cost-effectiveness of the iPhone 16e.

The highest battery efficiency in an iPhone

Another significant reason for purchasing the iPhone 16e will likely be its battery life. According to Apple, this model boasts the longest-lasting battery in any 6.1-inch iPhone, something confirmed through practical testing. This impressive longevity can partly be attributed to the device’s 4,005mAh battery—the biggest yet found in an iPhone that isn’t a Pro Max variant. Interestingly, even the slightly larger iPhone 16 Pro, at 6.3 inches, comes equipped with a less capacious battery. When you combine this enhanced battery size with the new C1 modem designed for superior energy efficiency, you get what amounts to a standout example of how well batteries can perform in these devices.

During battery testing, the iPhone 16e outperformed all other iPhones aside from the iPhone 16 Pro Max. Many consumers opt for the "Pro Max" version primarily because of its superior battery capacity and extended usage time, coupled with its larger screen size. Now, an additional choice has become available: a device offering ample battery life but equipped with a more compact display—a feature appealing to individuals seeking this balance.

Customers adore the iPhone 16e.

Even though critics had mixed opinions, customers have embraced the iPhone 16e with enthusiasm. This smartphone has garnered an overwhelmingly positive response in the marketplace for Apple. Most crucially for the company, many individuals opted to replace their outdated iPhones with the new model, thereby increasing adoption of the Apple ecosystem and boosting iPhone sales as well.

Customers have been commending the efficiency and fluidity of iOS 18 on the iPhone 16e. This can be attributed to the A18 chip, which is remarkably potent for such an affordable device.

A lot of people suggest that the iPhone 16e is "the right choice for those who don't require a Pro model," which seems quite fitting. If you're torn between getting an iPhone 16 and the iPhone 16e, I can't really see a reason to opt for the standard iPhone 16 instead.

What's lacking and why many people aren't concerned?

Initially, the absent features appear quite conspicuous. However, for the majority of users, these omissions are insignificant. This highlights how meticulously Apple included only the necessary components, perhaps defining what the "e" signifies in the iPhone 16e model.

Apple chose to omit MagSafe charging, presumably to reduce expenses and due to its limited capability of only delivering 7.5 watts wirelessly. The company also opted to retain just one lens—a wide-angle version derived from the iPhone 16’s ultra-wide module—which can be set up to function effectively as a telephoto alternative through digital cropping. Additionally, Apple removed the Ultra-Wideband (UWB) chip, which facilitates precise tracking for devices such as AirTags and features within the "Find My" app. Given how specialized this functionality is—and considering most users who rely heavily on these services probably own an iPhone Pro—the decision may not impact many customers significantly.

Certainly, there’s the discussion around the 60Hz refresh rate. Although having either 120Hz or at least 90Hz on an $600 device would be nice, this was not feasible for an $800 model lacking a higher refresh rate. Many potential buyers of the iPhone 16e wouldn’t notice much difference between 60Hz and 120Hz; some aren’t even aware of what these terms mean. Additionally, Apple’s screens are known for their silky-smooth performance, making the standard 60Hz feel exceptional on their devices.

Apple introduced the iPhone 16e at just the right moment.

Reflecting on the release of the iPhone 16e, it seems evident that Apple timed its introduction impeccably. The device debuted in February, placing it nearly two months ahead of President Trump’s tariff announcement. This allowed Apple to produce and distribute iPhone 16e units globally without facing additional costs from these tariffs. Additionally, with expectations for phone prices throughout the market to rise, offering a less expensive option made the iPhone 16e significantly more competitive.

Once again, we’re playing checkers and Apple is playing 3D Chess.

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