Apple has expanded its iPhone lineup once again, introducing the iPhone 16e, a model that sits alongside the flagship iPhone 16 series but takes a slightly different approach. Designed to appeal to users looking for a balance between performance and affordability, the iPhone 16e is rumored to bring a mix of flagship-grade features and subtle cost-cutting measures. But does it truly justify its place in Apple’s ecosystem, or is it simply a repackaged older model with a new name? Our team of experts and writers break down what the iPhone 16e brings to the table, how it compares to its pricier siblings, and whether it’s the right iPhone for you.
Apple’s iPhone 16e Just Made One Thing Clear—Compact Phones Are Done
“The not-so-awaited but much-debated iPhone 16e is finally here. Does it sound exciting? No. Is it disruptive with pricing or features? No. Will it sell well? Probably yes. But for me, it brings bad news: it heralds the end of small, compact phones. The dying breed of compact, lightweight devices just got hit by what looks like the biggest blow to any real chance of survival. I’m not a user of compact phones; for me, the iPhone 16/16 Pro size is the sweet spot (and, by today’s standards, it still qualifies as “compact”). I’ve settled on the 6-inch screen form factor as the de facto pick.
But what about all the people who stayed with the iPhone SE series and the not-so-successful iPhone mini-series for years, all because of that lightweight, truly pocket-friendly form factor? They were the loyalists, the ones who made the bitter compromise on battery life just to carry a phone that fits in a pocket without making its presence felt—a device they could hold with one hand like phones were originally meant to be used.
So, what’s next for them? Unfortunately, Apple isn’t really asking. The future seems set: bigger phones, bigger screens, bigger batteries, and everything-but-compact. Those who long for smaller phones will have to keep clinging to their aging SEs or Minis, or hope to jump ship when a compact model makes a surprise (and probably nervous) appearance from the Android land.
I know enough Apple users who are sticking with the SE and Mini series and keep asking: “When will the next SE update arrive? When can we expect the next compact, lightweight iPhone SE with a ‘Ready for Apple AI’ badge so we can finally sleep easy?” I’ve told them the bad news; it’s starting to sink in, and they feel lost. The disbelief and frustration are real —“Do I have to buy a bigger iPhone and give up the comfort of ergonomics and ease of use? Isn’t Apple all about clever design that prioritizes user experience over features and specs?”
I’ve been explaining it’s just market economics: making small phones doesn’t generate enough revenue for Apple. The market’s too narrow to justify supply chain investments, R&D, and marketing budgets, the numbers don’t add up. I don’t particularly like their reactions. These folks don’t mind paying a premium, they love Apple products and have been part of the iPhone ecosystem for many many years. Now, their faith in Apple’s design philosophy feels truly shaken.
/█\
/ \
TAKE MY MONEY!GIVE ME
──► iPhone SE4 ◄──
WITH APPLE AI!”
Pricing Feels Right—But the Compromises Are Hard to Ignore
I’m not going to lie, my heart definitely skipped a beat when I first saw the iPhone 16e’s price. ₹59,999 for an iPhone? It almost felt too good to be true. Maybe it’s just Apple’s brand magic, or maybe it’s how our brains perceive value, but that number just seemed…sweet. Of course, the first thing I did was check the iPhone 15’s price, and then it all made sense.
Putting my very price-conscious Indian self aside, I actually think Apple’s pulled off a clever bit of positioning here. For me, the A18 chip, even if it’s a slightly toned-down version, paired with the new C1 modem, is a seriously compelling reason to choose the 16e over the 15. Think about it: that A18 chip means smoother multitasking, better gaming, and potentially longer software support. And in a market like India, the C1 modem, hopefully delivering improved connectivity and faster 5G speeds, is a big deal.
Now, let’s be real, there are things that make you feel a little…robbed. That single rear camera and the notch definitely feel like compromises. I’d love the versatility of a dual-camera setup and a more modern, notch-less design. Those are features I genuinely miss.
But honestly? The performance leap from the A18 and the promise of a longer software lifecycle outweigh those missing features for me. It’s a trade-off I’m willing to make. For someone like me, who’s been eyeing an iPhone but couldn’t quite justify the higher price tag, the 16e suddenly becomes a very tempting entry point into the Apple ecosystem.
– Shubham Raheja, Managing Editor, XpertPick
The iPhone 16e: A Step Forward for Apple, A Step Sideways for Buyers
“The iPhone 16e finally arrives as the long-awaited SE refresh, bringing modern internals and a clean, compact design. It ticks many right boxes, especially with the inclusion of Apple’s first in-house C1 modem, a major step toward modem independence. While its full impact remains to be seen, this could be a game-changer for Apple’s connectivity in the future. However, pricing feels slightly off. Apple positions the 16e as an affordable option, but it still commands a premium in a price-conscious market, making it a harder sell beyond Apple loyalists.
Another drawback? Just two color options. The original iPhone SE (2016) launched in four colors—Space Gray, Silver, Gold, and Rose Gold, offering more variety than this model. At a time when Apple is embracing bold colors across its lineup, the 16e’s limited choices feel like a missed opportunity.
Despite these concerns, the iPhone 16e is a solid, much-needed addition to Apple’s lineup.
– Surbhi Chawla, Editor XpertPick
Apple Just Shifted the iPhone Playbook
“The iPhone 16e is quite an interesting smartphone to exist. But, it also feels like a confusing launch, purely because of the price range Apple has opted for. That said, this manoeuvre also opens up a new path for Apple — maybe they are testing new waters with the 16e. And, the clear indication of that is the C1 5G modem. It’s good to see that the Action Button and Apple Intelligence weren’t gatekept from the 16e. But, then again, the 16e actually puts the vanilla iPhone 16 in a somewhat awkward position. I’ll have more to say when we review the iPhone 16e.”
– Robin John, Reviews Head, XpertPick
Feels Like a Great Idea, but an Expensive One
“The iPhone 16e launch speaks of the start of a new series altogether, which caters to the budget-conscious, and this is interesting. The presence of the latest chipset, Apple Intelligence, the in-house C1 modem, and so much more makes it quite an offering, but wait, the price is where things get tricky and confusing. I personally wish Apple was more competitive here and provided a truly inexpensive iPhone. For me, the iPhone 16 is a more valid choice that can be purchased by spending a little extra money. The iPhone 16e would be great if the price was somewhere between Rs 45,000 and Rs 50,000.”
– Vanshika Malhotra, Features and News, XpertPick
Apple Just Leveled Up the SE, But Forgot to Discount It
“Apple has given the iPhone 16e a significant upgrade from the SE lineup, seemingly steering it toward the main-numbered series. As a result, it delivers strong performance, impressive battery life, and a capable camera system. What caught my attention the most, though, is its refined and minimalistic design. That said, the launch price doesn’t quite sit right. If discounts push it below Rs 55,000, it would be a great choice.”
– Shimul Sood, Contributor, XpertPick
SE Was the GOAT, iPhone 16e Is Just Mid
“With the launch of the iPhone 16E, I find myself missing the iPhone SE series even more. It’s still unclear whether Apple has officially discontinued the SE lineup, but it seems like many users might start looking elsewhere for compact, budget-friendly options.
For me, Apple Intelligence, the A18 chip, and a slightly better battery life aren’t enough to justify the iPhone 16E, especially considering its price of around ₹60,000. The lack of an ultrawide camera in 2025 is a major deal-breaker at this price point. Instead, I’d recommend the standard iPhone 16 or even last year’s iPhone 15, both of which offer far better hardware & value. And if iOS isn’t a top priority, there are plenty of compelling Android alternatives like the OnePlus 12, iQOO 13, and Realme 14 Pro+. These devices not only provide better hardware but also more flexibility in terms of features and customization.”
– Divyakant Thaledi, Videos, XpertPick
Too Pricey for Budget Buyers, Too Basic for Premium Users
While the iPhone 16e is an impressive device, I’m left wanting more distinction from the standard iPhone 16. A smaller form factor would have been a welcome differentiator. The starting price of Rs 59,900 puts it uncomfortably close to the iPhone 16 at Rs 79,900, potentially tempting buyers to spend a bit more for extras like an ultrawide camera, Action button, MagSafe charging, DisplayPort support, a potentially larger battery, and more color choices.
– Anvinraj Valiyathara, Contributor, XpertPick
