Apple’s new iPhone 16E, launched on February 19, replacing the three-year-old SE (3rd Gen). This signals a shift in Apple’s budget phone strategy. At $599, it’s a $170 jump from the SE’s $429 price, but it brings a compelling mix of upgrades: the A18 processor, a modern design, and Apple Intelligence, all at a more accessible price than Apple’s flagships.
Apple promises better performance with the A18 and their new C1 modem, but the higher price and missing features—like MagSafe and an extra camera lens—raise the question: Is the extra $170 worth it?
If you own an SE 2022 or are considering an entry-level iPhone, you’re probably wondering if the upgrades justify the cost. Let’s break down the key improvements.
8 iPhone 16E upgrades over SE 2022
iPhone 16E delivers significant improvements over the ageing iPhone SE 2022 budget offering.
1. Display
- SE (2022): 4.7-inch LCD with large bezels and Touch ID
- 16E: Larger 6.1-inch OLED (Super Retina XDR) with smaller bezels and notch
The most immediate difference is the modern design. The iPhone 16E replaces the antiquated 4.7-inch LCD screen with large bezels for a spacious 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. This dramatic upgrade not only provides more screen real estate but also delivers richer colours and better contrast for videos, games, and everyday use.
2. Chipset
- SE (2022): A15 Bionic
- 16E: New A18 chip with 26 cores (6-core CPU, 4-core GPU, 16-core Neural Engine)
Performance sees a substantial boost with the jump from the A15 Bionic to Apple’s new A18 chip. This 26-core powerhouse runs machine learning models up to six times faster than the A13 Bionic, making Apple Intelligence features possible on a budget device. For gamers, hardware-accelerated ray tracing delivers more realistic lighting effects previously reserved for premium models.
3. Camera
- SE (2022): Single 12MP camera with limited capabilities
- 16E: 48MP “Fusion” camera with 2x optical-quality telephoto
The camera system receives perhaps the most meaningful upgrade. The SE’s adequate but limited 12MP shooter gives way to a 48MP Fusion camera with 2x optical-quality telephoto capabilities. This brings budget iPhone photography much closer to flagship quality, especially in challenging lighting conditions.
4. Face ID
- SE (2022): Touch ID
- 16E: Face ID
Authentication evolves from Touch ID to Face ID, making the iPhone 16E the first budget Apple device to offer this convenient security feature. Face ID works seamlessly for device unlocking, app security, and payment authentication.
5. Battery Life
- SE (2022): Up to 15 hours video playback
- 16E: Up to 26-27 hours video playback (12 hours longer)
Battery life, a notorious weakness of the SE 2022, sees dramatic improvement with the 16E offering up to 12 additional hours of video playback. This extended stamina comes courtesy of both the efficient A18 chip and Apple’s first proprietary C1 cellular modem.
6. Connectivity
- SE (2022): Lightning port, physical SIM support
- 16E: USB-C port, eSIM only in the US
Connectivity modernises with USB-C replacing Lightning, bringing the 16E in line with current standards. The device also supports satellite connectivity for emergency communications when cell service isn’t available.
7. The Action Button
- SE (2022): Traditional mute switch
- 16E: Face ID, Action Button
This represents another premium feature making its way to the budget line. This programmable button replaces the traditional mute switch, allowing users to quickly launch favourite apps, activate Shazam, control the flashlight, or translate languages.
8. Fall-proof certification
- SE (2022): IP67
- Build: IP68 water resistance, Ceramic Shield display protection
The iPhone 16E improves durability with an IP68 water resistance rating, an upgrade from the SE (2022)’s IP67. This means it can survive submersion in up to six meters of water for 30 minutes, offering better protection against spills and accidents. Additionally, Ceramic Shield display protection, marketed as the toughest glass in a smartphone, enhances durability for everyday use.
Apple also highlights sustainability improvements, with the 16E’s frame made from 85% recycled aerospace-grade aluminium, reinforcing its commitment to eco-friendly materials—even in budget-friendly models.
iPhone 16E debuts with Apple Intelligence
If there’s one exclusive upgrade worth highlighting, it’s Apple Intelligence on the iPhone 16E—arguably the main justification for its price. However, users are already questioning how future iOS updates might impact battery health, especially given Apple’s history with iOS 18 throttling performance on both older and newer devices.
With AI processing demanding more power, it’ll be interesting to see how the 16E manages efficiency over time. Check out our full breakdown of Apple Intelligence features.
Availability and Pricing
Preorders for Apple’s iPhone 16E began on Friday 21 on the Apple Store, and the phone’s release will follow a week later on February 28. Keep your eyes peeled for Condia’s full review in the coming weeks. The phone is available in Black and White colour options.
For storage configurations, here’s what you can expect:
- 128GB – $599 / ₦911,688
- 256GB – $699 / ₦1,058,978
- 512GB – $899 / ₦1,361,976
