Apple is gearing up for a big release in 2025 with its new budget-friendly smartphone, potentially named the iPhone 16E. According to multiple leaks and rumors, the iPhone 16E will break away from the traditional SE branding, aligning itself closer to Apple’s flagship lineup. This shift reflects not only a rebranding strategy but also significant upgrades in design, hardware, and features.

The iPhone 16E: What to Expect
1. Modern Design Inspired by iPhone 14
The iPhone 16E will reportedly adopt a design similar to the iPhone 14, marking a departure from the dated iPhone SE 3 look.
- 6.06-inch OLED Display: Replacing the LCD screen, this upgrade promises deeper contrasts and more vibrant colors.
- Slim Bezels: A more immersive viewing experience compared to its predecessor.
- Face ID Support: Moving away from the Touch ID home button for a sleek, secure, and modern design.
- Colors: Expected in classic Black and White.
2. Enhanced Performance with A18 Chip
The iPhone 16E is rumored to feature Apple’s A18 chipset, providing a significant boost in speed and efficiency.
- 8GB RAM: Double the RAM of its predecessor for smoother multitasking.
- AI and Machine Learning: Support for Apple Intelligence features, enhancing Siri and other on-device capabilities.
- In-House 5G Modem: Apple’s first proprietary modem, reducing reliance on Qualcomm.
3. Camera Upgrades
Apple is giving its budget model a substantial camera upgrade.
- 48MP Rear Camera: A leap from the 12MP sensor, enabling better detail, low-light performance, and zoom capabilities.
- Fusion Lens Technology: Improved image quality and color accuracy.
- Improved Selfies: Likely to feature enhanced front-camera specs for sharper and brighter selfies.
4. Specifications Table
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Display | 6.06-inch OLED, 1,170×2,532 pixels |
Processor | A18 chipset |
RAM | 8GB |
Storage | Base model with 128GB |
Rear Camera | 48MP with Fusion Lens |
Front Camera | Improved selfie camera |
Face ID | Yes |
5G Modem | Apple-designed in-house modem |
Battery | 3,279mAh with optimized performance |
Colors | Black, White |
5. Pricing and Availability
The iPhone 16E is expected to debut in the first quarter of 2025.
- Estimated Price: Around $500 (approximately ₹42,700 in India).
- Indian Pricing: Likely between ₹49,900 and ₹53,900 due to additional taxes and duties.
6. Comparison with iPhone SE 3
The transition from the iPhone SE 3 to the iPhone 16E is a game-changer.
Feature | iPhone SE 3 | iPhone 16E |
---|---|---|
Display | 4.7-inch LCD | 6.06-inch OLED |
Processor | A15 Bionic | A18 |
Camera | 12MP rear | 48MP rear |
Face ID | No | Yes |
5G Modem | Qualcomm Snapdragon | Apple In-House Modem |
7. Strategic Rebranding: From SE to 16E
Leakers, including Majin Bu and Fixed Focus Digital, suggest that Apple’s decision to rebrand the iPhone SE 4 as iPhone 16E aligns the device with its flagship series. By doing so, Apple signals its intent to elevate the status of its budget lineup.
8. Why the iPhone 16E Matters
The iPhone 16E is set to revolutionize Apple’s budget offerings with features that were once exclusive to premium models.
- It offers modern aesthetics with slim bezels and Face ID.
- Performance upgrades make it suitable for everyday multitasking and advanced applications.
- The improved camera bridges the gap between budget and flagship capabilities.
Conclusion
The iPhone 16E represents a new era for Apple’s budget smartphones, offering flagship-level design and performance at a fraction of the cost. Whether you’re a longtime Apple fan or someone looking to enter the ecosystem, this device promises exceptional value.
Keep an eye out for its official launch in early 2025!