Apple Replaces iPhone SE with New iPhone 16e, Raising Price and Expectations

Priced at $599, the iPhone 16e offers modern design and features but shifts away from the budget market, sparking questions about its appeal to former SE users.

The iPhone 16e, priced at $599, replaces the iPhone SE as Apple's most affordable current-generation iPhone, marking a significant price increase from the SE's $429 starting point.
It features a modern design with a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, the A18 chip, and Apple's new C1 modem, but lacks MagSafe, Dynamic Island, and Ultra Wideband chip support.
The phone retains a single 48-megapixel Fusion Camera, capable of 4K video recording and high-quality photography, but omits ultrawide and macro lens options found in higher-tier models.
Battery life is a standout, with users reporting a full day's use without significant battery anxiety, thanks to power efficiency improvements from the C1 modem and other optimizations.
Consumer research suggests Apple faces challenges convincing budget-conscious SE users to adopt the pricier 16e, with many SE buyers historically prioritizing affordability over premium features.