Apple iPhone 16e Debuts With Self-Designed Modem and Budget-Friendly Features

The iPhone 16e combines a modern design, longer battery life, and Apple's first in-house modem, but sacrifices some features to hit a lower price point.

The iPhone 16e introduces Apple's first self-designed C1 modem, offering reliable performance but lacking mmWave 5G support.
Priced at $599, the iPhone 16e is positioned as Apple's most affordable new device, though it is more expensive than previous budget models like the iPhone SE.
The device features a single 48MP rear camera, a 6.1-inch OLED display, and Apple's A18 chip, delivering strong performance and extended software support.
Notable trade-offs include the absence of MagSafe compatibility and a lower peak display brightness compared to other iPhone 16 models.
iFixit's teardown highlights improved repairability in some areas but criticizes design choices that complicate access to internal components, such as the USB-C port.