Apple launches budget-focused iPhone 16e with AI features
Apple has launched a ‘budget-focused’ iPhone with built-in artificial intelligence (AI) features for £599.
The iPhone 16e shares many specifications with its more illustrious sibling, the iPhone 16, but targets customers who want AI at the lowest price.
Apple is currently making a big play for ‘Apple Intelligence’, which allows users to access notification summaries, send smart replies in emails and messages, and edit photos on the fly.
The iPhone 16e includes all of this functionality, but with a few cut corners.
The new device is still powered by a speedy A18 processor, but has fewer cameras and a more basic design without the ‘Dynamic Island’ notch.
Industry analysts believe that it’s a good move for Apple, especially in developing markets where the more premium models are very expensive.
Forrester analyst Dipanjan Chatterjee said: “The iPhone 16e generates a new revenue stream for Apple, and this will be particularly noticeable in key markets like India, where iPhones are out of reach for most people.”
The cheaper device will also bring new customers into Apple’s ecosystem, which includes a range of other devices including Macs and AirPods.
In the UK, the iPhone 16e will retail for £599.
That’s £200 cheaper than the iPhone 16, which went on sale last September.
While it’s a more affordable entry point, experts aren’t sure whether AI will be one of the major selling points.
Apple has spent around £150bn on developing AI projects during the last 10 years, but has little to show for it so far in terms of marketable products.
The Vision Pro headset flopped, largely due to its exorbitant £3,500 price tag.
The iPhone 16 is much cheaper though, and is available to pre-order now ahead of the 28th February release date.