Everything you need to know about the new iPhone 16e

On 19 February 2025, Apple announced the launch of the iPhone 16e. The new model will be the brand’s latest ‘budget’ offering, allowing a compromise between high-quality technology and affordability. As a replacement of the SE line, the iPhone 16e features advanced specifications and a stylish design, while remaining an economical option for consumers.

However, if budget is the main factor for choosing an iPhone 16e, it may also be worth considering a refurbished version of other, more substantial iPhone models – more on that later!

We’ll give you a run-down on everything you might need to know about the iPhone 16e, including:

Phone design

The iPhone 16e features a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display with OLED technology, delivering vibrant colours and deep blacks. The design might remind some users of the iPhone 14, with a hardy-yet-stylish aluminium construction and glass back. The device is also IP68 certified, for protection against water and dust.

Performance and Hardware

Powered by the latest generation A18 chip, iPhone 16e delivers responsive, efficient performance. This 6-core CPU and 4-core GPU processor ensures a smooth multitasking and gaming experience. The device is available in three storage options: 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB, catering to the diverse needs of users.

Advanced Camera

One of the highlights of the iPhone 16e is its new 48 MP Fusion camera, which works like two cameras rolled into one. Its high-resolution sensor lets you capture photos with stunning detail and offers 2x optical zoom. Additionally, the device records videos in 4K with Dolby Vision, ensuring beautiful quality in your recordings.

Apple Intelligence and Additional Features

iPhone 16e is designed to integrate seamlessly with Apple Intelligence, Apple’s personal intelligence system. With advanced AI capabilities, users can create personalised Genmojis, edit photos with the Cleanup feature, and enjoy a more intuitive and responsive Siri. All of these features have been developed with user privacy in mind, ensuring that personal data remains protected.

Connectivity

Battery life has been significantly improved on iPhone 16e, offering up to 26 hours of video playback, an increase of 12 hours over previous SE models. In terms of connectivity, the device supports Wi-Fi, 5G, and eSIM, providing clearer calls and ultra-fast connections. Additionally, features such as Accident Detection and Emergency SOS via satellite ensure assistance in emergency situations, even without network coverage.

Conclusion: New or refurbished?

With the launch of the new iPhone 16e, many users are focused on the new features, but this is also the perfect time to consider purchasing a refurbished iPhone. Whenever Apple launches a new model, there is a natural increase in the supply of previous models on the refurbished market, often in excellent condition and at much more affordable prices.

Why take advantage now?

  • Lower prices: With the arrival of the iPhone 16e, models such as the iPhone 13, 14 and even the 15 suffer significant price drops in the refurbished markets.
  • Sustainability: Buying a refurbished iPhone not only saves you money, it’s also an environmentally friendly choice by reducing electronic waste.
  • Solid performance: Recent models remain extremely capable, offering years of software updates, powerful cameras, and excellent battery life.
  • Warranty and trust: Refurbished retailers like Swappie offer iPhones that have been rigorously tested, along with a 12-month warranty and 30-day return policy for peace of mind.

You can shop Swappie’s latest quality refurbished iPhone offers here.