Apple launches iPhone 16e with 48MP camera, A18 SoC, Indian price starts at Rs 59,900; Check details

Apple has introduced the iPhone 16e in India, marking the latest addition to its iPhone lineup. Instead of launching the anticipated iPhone SE 4, Apple has expanded the iPhone 16 series with this new model, offering a more affordable option for consumers. The launch has also seen the quiet removal of the iPhone SE from Apple’s official store, hinting that the SE series may have been discontinued.

With the iPhone 16e, Apple is bringing several premium features, including a 48MP camera, the A18 chipset, and a 6.1-inch OLED display, and of course, Apple Intelligence (when it finally launches in India) at a more competitive price point. Here’s a closer look at its specifications, pricing, and availability in India.

iPhone 16e: Specifications and Features

The iPhone 16e features a 6.1-inch OLED display with a notch housing Apple’s Face ID system for secure facial recognition. Unlike previous SE models, this device includes an Action button, replacing the traditional mute switch. This button allows users to quickly access functions like activating the camera or enabling Do Not Disturb mode. Additionally, Apple has adopted a USB-C port for the iPhone 16e, replacing the Lightning connector to support faster charging and data transfers.

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The smartphone is powered by the A18 chip, delivering significant performance improvements over its predecessors. The 6-core CPU offers speeds up to 80% faster than the A13 Bionic, which powered the iPhone 11. It also features a 4-core GPU and a 16-core Neural Engine, optimised for handling machine learning and AI-based tasks. Apple claims that the Neural Engine can process AI models up to six times faster than the A13, improving efficiency for tasks like real-time image processing and AI-driven interactions.

One of the standout features of the iPhone 16e is its 48MP Fusion rear camera, which captures high-resolution images with improved clarity. The camera also doubles up as a 2x Telephoto zoom, allowing users to get closer to subjects without compromising image quality. By default, the phone takes 24MP photos, but users can switch to 48MP mode for enhanced resolution. The camera system supports Portrait mode, Night mode, and HDR, making it versatile for different lighting conditions.

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On the front, the 12MP TrueDepth camera features autofocus and supports 4K video recording at up to 60 frames per second with Dolby Vision, offering enhanced colour accuracy and contrast.

Apple claims the iPhone 16e offers up to 26 hours of video playback, improving battery life over its predecessors. The device also supports wireless charging and satellite connectivity, including Messages via Satellite and Emergency SOS, allowing users to stay connected even in areas without cellular coverage. Additionally, it features Crash Detection, which can automatically notify emergency services in case of a severe accident.

iPhone 16e: Pricing and Availability in India

The iPhone 16e starts at Rs 59,900 in India, making it Rs 20,000 cheaper than the iPhone 16, which starts at Rs 79,900. Pre-orders for the device will begin on February 21, with deliveries set to start on February 28.

For those looking for more storage, the 256GB model is priced at Rs 69,900, while the 512GB variant costs Rs 89,900. With the introduction of the iPhone 16e, Apple is offering a more budget-friendly alternative within its latest lineup, potentially replacing the iPhone SE series for consumers seeking a lower-cost iPhone.