Apple’s New ‘Affordable’ Phone with iPhone 16 Features but Lower Price
On social media, many users argue that a $599 phone cannot be considered "affordable."
Apple has introduced a new ‘affordable’ iPhone with artificial intelligence capabilities.
The iPhone 16E features the same A18 processing chip as the more expensive iPhone 16 series.
According to the company, this new model offers the same storage options as the iPhone 16 series, but its camera capabilities are lower than those of the iPhone 16.
In the 16E, Apple has removed the classic Touch ID interface and replaced it with Face ID.
Design and Display
Apple’s new device is based on the design of the iPhone 14.
It retains the notch that houses the front cameras for Face ID (and selfies), differing from the company’s newer flagship phones, which feature the Dynamic Island design.
The phone has a 6.06-inch OLED display, which is 0.11 inches smaller than the standard version of the iPhone 16.
Apple Intelligence
Much of the discussion around this new iPhone revolves around its processing power.
The iPhone 16E uses the same A18 chip as Apple’s higher-end flagship devices.
This means that users of the 16E can run the same games and apps as other iPhones.
However, the A18 chip in this model is likely intended to enable artificial intelligence capabilities.
Apple CEO Tim Cook stated that the new model will provide users with the same “performance” they “expect” from Apple.
He added that Apple Intelligence features will help users “save time, complete tasks quickly, and present themselves better.”
However, Apple’s history with AI has not been entirely smooth.
At one point, the company had to suspend its AI-generated news alerts after they created false news reports attributed to media outlets like the BBC.
Some of the AI-driven features highlighted include sorting images and making it easier to search for items in the photo library.
Other smartphone companies have already introduced such features in their devices, but the iPhone 16E is Apple’s most affordable way to access AI-powered capabilities.
A ‘Budget’ iPhone for $599
Apple has announced that the iPhone 16E will be available for pre-order in 59 countries starting February 21.
On social media, many users argue that a $599 phone cannot be considered “affordable.”
Another user, Vishwarup Samaddar, sarcastically remarked, “If you ever feel useless in life, just remember that Apple called the iPhone 16E ‘the best value.'”
Attracting More Customers
At the end of last year, Apple faced a decline in product sales and has been looking for a product that can attract new customers.
Tech industry analyst Paolo Pescatore, “This is now one of the most affordable and powerful iPhones on the market. This move will help Apple accelerate the adoption of AI with Apple Intelligence.”
He added that Apple’s reputation is crucial, and this strategy will help the company boost sales and attract users from other brands.
Forrester analyst Dipanjan Chatterjee believes the iPhone 16E will help Apple expand in markets like India, where many people cannot afford other iPhone models.
The lower price could encourage new users to switch to Apple.