Apple launched the iPhone 16e in India in February 2025 at Rs 59,900 for 128 GB, replacing the iPhone SE as the entry point to the lineup. It drops the Home button and Touch ID in favour of Face ID and a notch, and introduces Apple's first self-designed cellular modem, the C1, which proved notably power efficient.
The 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED runs at 60Hz and uses a notch rather than the Dynamic Island. The aluminium frame and glass back are modelled on the iPhone 14 design, and at 167 g it is light and comfortable. Inside is the A18 chip with a four-core GPU and 8 GB RAM, enough for Apple Intelligence features and long-term iOS support.
There is a single 48 MP Fusion camera with 2x crop zoom, but no ultrawide and no MagSafe, though Qi wireless charging works. Battery life is excellent for a 6.1-inch iPhone, outlasting the iPhone 16 in many tests. Critics pointed out that Android phones like the Pixel 8a and Galaxy S24 FE offered more hardware for less, while the 16e relied on Apple's ecosystem and longevity.
Key specifications
| Launch price (India) | Rs 59,900 (base variant) |
|---|---|
| India launch | February 2025 |
| Segment | Upper mid-range |
| Display | 6.1-inch, Super Retina XDR OLED, 60Hz, 1170 x 2532 |
| Processor | Apple A18 (4-core GPU) |
| RAM | 8 GB |
| Storage | 128 GB / 256 GB / 512 GB |
| Expandable storage | No |
| Rear cameras | 48 MP main |
| Front camera | 12 MP with autofocus |
| Battery | 3961 mAh |
| Software at launch | iOS 18.3 |
| 5G | Yes |
| Water/dust rating | IP68 |
| Headphone jack | No |
| Weight | 167 g |
| Colours | Black, White |
What we like
- A18 chip with Apple Intelligence support
- Excellent battery life
- OLED and Face ID replace the dated SE design
- Light and compact
What could be better
- Single rear camera
- No MagSafe
- Notch and 60Hz
- Priced high for its hardware
Who should buy it
Buyers who want a new iPhone with long support and good battery at the lowest Apple price.
Specifications and price are as at the India launch (February 2025). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.