Earlier this week, Apple surprised longtime fans and newcomers alike by giving its most affordable iPhone a significant makeover—and a name change. No longer the much-rumored iPhone SE 4, Apple has instead unveiled the iPhone 16e, a device that not only embraces a modern full-screen design and Face ID but also boldly introduces “Apple Intelligence” to the entry-level lineup.

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For years, the iPhone SE line has been Apple’s gateway for users seeking performance without a premium price tag. But with the iPhone 16e, Apple is shifting gears. By ditching the Touch ID home button in favor of Face ID and adopting a design reminiscent of the iPhone 14, the company signals a commitment to bringing advanced features—like Apple Intelligence—into a more accessible package. (Apple Intelligence refers to a suite of AI-driven enhancements including generative writing tools, Genmoji, Image Playground, and even ChatGPT integration, all powered by the new A18 chip.)

At a starting price of $599, the iPhone 16e is not only a design update but also a leap forward in performance, thanks in part to the requirement of at least 8GB of RAM to support its AI features. It’s a bold move, especially given that previous SE models were priced at around $429. But for those looking to dip their toes into Apple’s latest technology, the extra investment might just be worth it.

Here’s where you can preorder the new iPhone 16e

If you’re eager to get your hands on the new iPhone 16e, the best—and arguably most reliable—option is to preorder directly from Apple. The unlocked version of the iPhone 16e is available in two classic colors, black and white, with three storage configurations:

• 128GB — $599
• 256GB — $699
• 512GB — $899

Opting for an unlocked phone means freedom. You can choose nearly any carrier you want, making it a versatile option regardless of your network preference.

While Best Buy and Walmart haven’t confirmed unlocked versions of the iPhone 16e, they are offering attractive carrier deals. Target, on the other hand, is selling the device primarily through its brick-and-mortar stores, though online availability may pop up. And if you’re browsing Amazon, note that while you might not find preorders for the phone itself, you can pick up Apple’s official white silicone case for $39 (also available in various colors)—a small accessory that complements the sleek design of the iPhone 16e.

Carrier deals

For many, the decision to purchase a new smartphone often comes down to the perks offered by wireless carriers. Here’s a quick rundown of the current specials attached to the iPhone 16e:

• Verizon: New customers can save up to $420 when ordering the iPhone 16e and signing up for a new plan. Existing customers aren’t left out either—adding a new line could also fetch a $420 saving.
• AT&T: Everyone can grab the iPhone 16e for just $5.99 per month with any unlimited plan. The offer comes with no trade-in requirement, making it a straightforward choice. Walmart further sweetens the deal for AT&T customers, offering monthly payments starting at $15.25.
• T-Mobile: Trade in an eligible device on Magenta Max, Go5G Plus/Next, or even just add a line on Go5G (or most plans) to score the iPhone 16e “on us” or enjoy discounts of up to $830. Alternatively, trading in on Go5G (or similar plans) can net you $500 off.
• Boost Mobile: For those considering a switch, Boost Mobile is offering the iPhone 16e for just $300 when you join and sign up for the Unlimited Premium plan at $60 per month.

These deals not only provide flexible payment options but also reflect the competitive nature of the current smartphone market, where carriers are eager to lure customers with robust promotions.

At a glance, the iPhone 16e channels the aesthetic of the iPhone 14. The classic home button is replaced by Face ID, ensuring a modern, seamless interface dominated by swipe-based multitasking gestures. Gone are the chunky bezels of earlier models, replaced by a slimmer notch that, while not as dynamic as the “Dynamic Island” seen on higher-end iPhones, still marks a significant departure from its predecessors.

The 6.1-inch display provides ample real estate for everything from browsing to streaming, and with the integration of Apple Intelligence, the device is geared to offer a range of smart features previously reserved for more expensive models.

Powered by the A18 chip, the iPhone 16e isn’t just a pretty face. This chipset is optimized to handle the advanced AI features that are now a cornerstone of Apple’s strategy. Whether it’s generating text with AI writing tools, creating personalized Genmoji, or enhancing images in the Image Playground, the iPhone 16e is built for speed and efficiency.

But with innovation comes trade-offs. The iPhone 16e is equipped with a 48-megapixel Fusion “2-in-1” camera that includes a 2x telephoto system. While this setup delivers impressive clarity and detail, it does lack the extra rear cameras found on the more expensive iPhone 16 and 16 Plus. In other words, while the iPhone 16e is a stellar entry point into Apple’s evolving ecosystem, those seeking a more comprehensive photography experience might still lean toward the higher-end models.

At $599, the iPhone 16e represents a significant step up from previous iPhone SE models, both in design and functionality. The inclusion of Apple Intelligence, powered by the robust A18 chip and a full-screen design with Face ID, marks a transformative moment for Apple’s entry-level devices. It offers a taste of next-generation features without the full price tag of the flagship iPhone 16, which starts at $799.

For tech enthusiasts and everyday users alike, the decision comes down to priorities. If you’re looking for cutting-edge AI features and a modern design wrapped in a budget-friendly package (albeit one that’s $170 higher than its predecessors), the iPhone 16e might just be the perfect upgrade.

Whether you choose to purchase it unlocked directly from Apple or take advantage of one of the enticing carrier offers, the new iPhone 16e is set to redefine what an entry-level iPhone can be. Preorders are now live, with the device expected to hit wider markets on February 28. Happy upgrading!

Disclaimer: Prices and promotions mentioned in this article are accurate at the time of writing and are subject to change based on the retailers’ discretion. Please verify the current offer before making a purchase.