Apple Introduces iPhone 16e Featuring AI Assistance and Action Button

The base edition of the iPhone 16 series, priced at $599, features advanced Apple Intelligence and a new button for convenient access to several operations.

Apple

On Wednesday, Apple unveiled a new model in the iPhone 16 series: the iPhone 16e, the most economical variant of the generation. Despite its accessible pricing starting at $599, the gadget offers exceptional performance with a range of unique features, including an A18 chip, Apple Intelligence, extended battery life, and a 48MP dual-camera system.

Apple

The new model is available in two matte finishes, black and white, and includes a 6.1” Super Retina XDR display. The 16e possesses unparalleled power, featuring the most exceptional battery life to date on a 6.1-inch iPhone, enduring 12 hours longer than all SE versions.

The A18 chip will deliver seamless performance and efficiency, with a 6-core CPU that is 80% faster than the A13 Bionic chip seen in the iPhone 11, along with a 4-core GPU for enhanced graphics optimization. A 16-core Neural Engine is designed for generative models and machine learning (ML) models, operating up to six times faster than the A13.

Apple Intelligence enables users to access new functionalities such as Clean Up, which effectively eliminates undesirable parts from images, and Genmoji, which permits the creation of personalized emojis. Apple's AI technology further augments Siri's capabilities, facilitating more conversational engagements and improved contextual awareness. Additionally, Apple has incorporated ChatGPT inside its operating system, enabling users to conveniently use the chatbot for daily support.

Users will locate the new Action Button above the volume controls on the device's side. Apple enumerates a range of functionalities accessible via the button once configured in the device settings: launching the camera or flashlight; toggling between Ring and Silent modes; identifying music with Shazam; enabling Voice Memos, Focus, Translate, and accessibility features; or utilizing Shortcuts.

The Action button activates a new visual intelligence feature utilizing Apple Intelligence to inform users about things and locations, summarize and copy text, translate text between languages, recognize phone numbers or email addresses, and identify animals or plants, among other functions.

Access the complete specifications of the iPhone 16e on the official Apple website. The iPhone 16e will be available for pre-order at 5 AM PST on February 21, with full availability commencing on Friday, February 28.