Latest news with #iPhone16E
CNET
16-07-2025
- CNET
IPhone 16E vs. iPhone 15 Pro: Affordable Alternatives to the iPhone 16
The iPhone 16 is an excellent handset for Apple aficionados, but $799 can be pretty pricey for a lot of people. But there are a couple of good options that are both cheaper and have Apple Intelligence: the iPhone 16E and the iPhone 15 Pro. Both have 6.1-inch displays, but the Pro has a few more perks. The 16E starts at $599, but Apple no longer sells the 15 Pro. However, you can snag a used version of the 15 Pro for anywhere between $538 and $684 or get a refurbished one from Apple for $759. On top of that, both phones will get iOS 26 when it's available this fall. This guide will help you understand which one is worth it for you. However, we should add that July is typically a bad time to buy a new iPhone, as there will likely be a new model in September, and older models might get an additional price drop. One of the biggest selling points of the iPhone 16E is that it offers a decent bang for the buck. It is Apple's most affordable iPhone, but it still has many of the same features as the regular iPhone 16, such as the latest A18 chip and Apple Intelligence, which introduces generative emoji, smarter notifications and, eventually, an improved Siri. Yet, it might be worth looking at the company's older iPhones, such as the iPhone 15 Pro. A new iPhone 15 Pro isn't as cheap as the iPhone 16E, but it has much better features, such as a nicer camera, a higher-resolution screen, a titanium body and better charging capabilities. You can get the 15 Pro at a lower price than if you buy it used or refurbished. How do these phones compare? We've outlined a few features for you to find out which one is the best iPhone for you. Watch this: iPhone 16E Review 07:20 The iPhone 16E and the iPhone 15 Pro both have 6.1-inch displays, but the Pro has a few more perks. Celso Bulgatti/CNET Display The iPhone 16E and the iPhone 15 Pro feature the same 6.1-inch screen size at a similar display resolution, but there are still a few differences. The iPhone 16E runs at a 60Hz refresh rate -- similar to all of the non-Pro iPhone models -- and it can reach a 1,200-nit peak brightness. It also has a similar display notch to the iPhone 14, and doesn't support the Dynamic Island that serves up contextual information on other iPhone 15 and 16 models. It's functional and should work fine whether you're using the phone indoors or outdoors, but the Pro's screen has several additional perks. The iPhone 15 Pro (right, seen here with the 15 Pro Max), includes the Dynamic Island around its display cutout. James Martin/CNET The iPhone 15 Pro's display can run at a variable refresh rate between 10Hz and 120Hz, changing based on what activity you're doing. You can expect to see the smoother 120Hz refresh rate when scrolling through websites, playing games and other applications that benefit from smoother animations. According to Apple, it will hit the lower end of that range to conserve battery life when you aren't using the phone. The display also hits a higher 2,000 nits of peak brightness (outdoors) and includes the Dynamic Island that shows information like the music player or countdowns around the space of the front-facing camera's display cutout. Both the iPhone 16E (seen here) and the iPhone 15 Pro can play more graphically-intense games such as Resident Evil 4 Remake. Celso Bulgatti/CNET Processor The iPhone 15 Pro has the A17 Pro chip, which is a six-core CPU with two performance and four efficiency cores that makes it great for graphics and gaming. The iPhone 16E, on the other hand, ships with the latest A18 chip, which gives it a touch more power and speed. In practice, the A17 Pro is still a very capable chip that will serve you well for years to come. The A18 chip, however, will likely receive software and new feature updates for a slightly longer period of time. Both processors are capable of running Apple Intelligence and more advanced iPhone games like Resident Evil 4 Remake and Death Stranding. The iPhone 16 has a Clean Up tool that can remove unwanted elements from photos. Numi Prasarn/CNET Apple Intelligence One of the iPhone 16E's biggest highlights is that it supports Apple Intelligence, which was previously only available in Apple's high-end offerings like the iPhone 15 Pro and the iPhone 16. Apple Intelligence offers plenty of benefits, such as smart writing tools, a Clean Up tool that removes unwanted elements from photos and a potentially smarter Siri in a future update. The iPhone 15 Pro, as mentioned, has had this from the start, so the two are fairly equal in this department. The iPhone 16E has a single 48-megapixel main camera. Celso Bulgatti/CNET Camera The biggest visual difference between the iPhone 16E and the iPhone 15 Pro is that the latter has three cameras instead of one. The iPhone 15 Pro has a 48-megapixel wide lens, a 12-megapixel ultrawide lens and a 12-megapixel telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. It also has a large 48-megapixel sensor that helps immensely in low light. The iPhone 16E, on the other hand, only has a single 48-megapixel rear camera. It has to rely on sensor-cropping for improved zoomed-in shots. Both have 12-megapixel front-facing cameras. The iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max have three cameras on the back. James Martin/CNET Charging Another downside to the iPhone 16E is that it lacks support for MagSafe wireless charging and is only compatible with Qi charging capped at 7.5 watts. The iPhone 15 Pro, on the other hand, supports 15-watt MagSafe charging. Not only can it wireless charge at twice the speed, it also supports a whole range of magnetic accessories that the iPhone 16E won't be able to use unless it has a third-party MagSafe-compatible case. Both phones use USB-C for wired charging, with Apple citing that both can recharge their battery to 50% in 30 minutes when connected to a 20-watt adapter. In CNET's review testing for the iPhone 16E and iPhone 15 Pro, both phones tested slightly better than this. The iPhone 16E recharged from 0% to 59% in 30 minutes, and the 15 Pro recharged from 0% to 62% after being updated to iOS 17.0.3. Both the iPhone 16E and the 15 Pro charge over USB-C. Celso Bulgatti/CNET Pricing (and a note on buying refurbished) Obviously, the iPhone 16E offers a lower price as it retails for just $599. Apple, however, is now officially selling a refurbished version of the 15 Pro for just $759, which is cheaper than the $799 iPhone 16. Sure, that's more expensive than the 16E, but the Pro's extra features might be worth a higher price for you. Additionally, while buying phones in a secondary market has its issues (the phone might not always be in great shape), Apple's official refurbished program has an excellent reputation that is akin to buying the product new. Check out the following chart to see how the iPhone 16E and the iPhone 15 Pro stack up in other aspects.
CNET
15-07-2025
- CNET
I Take This Portable Charger Everywhere I Travel and It's 33% Off Right Now
I take my phone with me wherever I go, and I'm not afraid to admit that I've come to rely on it for just about every aspect of my life -- from getting news, weather and navigation help to staying in close contact with friends, family and co-workers. That means, like many people, I live in constant fear that my iPhone's battery will die on me right when I need it most. That is, I did until I found the Anker 622 MagGo, which CNET ranked as the best magnetic power bank with an integrated stand, and which I now take with me everywhere I go. In my opinion, this charger is a worthwhile buy even at its full retail price of $48. But right now you can get every color for a solid discount of about 33% off. The cheapest option is dark gray, which is on sale for $32, while all other colors -- lavender, white, mint green and pale blue -- are all available for $34. Here's why I've stuck with this little charger for so long Have you seen people walk around with a loop of cable hanging from their pocket to their phone? I've been there and hooked that loop on too many chairs and table corners. Never again. The ring of magnets in the Anker 622 MagGo aligns with the MagSafe magnets in every iPhone since the iPhone 12, latching securely and charging without wires. (The notable exception is the iPhone 16E, which does not offer MagSafe but does charge wirelessly using Qi technology. The Anker 622 MagGo will charge the iPhone 16E but won't latch to it magnetically.) It's also compact -- a little backpack feeding power to the phone while you're holding it or have it stashed in a pocket, even a jeans pocket if your fit isn't too tight. Hey, did you know? CNET Deals texts are free, easy and save you money. Those features alone would have convinced me but the Anker 622 also includes a fold-out back flap that props up my iPhone and can also hold the phone in its wide orientation for StandBy mode. With a power adapter such as the Anker Nano Pro (not included) and a charging cable, I've taught long classes with the phone angled to help me keep track of the time without checking my watch. Jeff Carlson/CNET Essential Anker 622 MagGo specs Here's what you need to know. Battery capacity: 5,000 milliamp hours 5,000 milliamp hours Voltage: 1.55 volts 1.55 volts Output: 7.5-watt Magnetic (compatible with MagSafe-equipped devices, iPhone 12 and later) or 20-watt USB-C port. Can charge only one device at a time. 7.5-watt Magnetic (compatible with MagSafe-equipped devices, iPhone 12 and later) or 20-watt USB-C port. Can charge only one device at a time. Input: The same single USB-C is also how you recharge the device. The same single USB-C is also how you recharge the device. Size: 4.13-inch by 2.61 inches by 0.5 inch 4.13-inch by 2.61 inches by 0.5 inch Weight: 5 ounces 5 ounces Included: Magnetic battery, 60cm (23.6 inches) USB-C to USB-C cable Magnetic battery, 60cm (23.6 inches) USB-C to USB-C cable Warranty: 24 months MagSafe-compatible charging I've owned several battery chargers and each one has some sort of compromise. They're bulky. They require a cable. They charge wirelessly but don't include a magnet to keep the phone in place so it's hard to maintain that connection. There's always something. The Anker 622 is half an inch thick and snaps onto the back of my iPhone using the MagSafe-aligned magnets. I don't have to turn it on to start charging -- power flows as soon as the connection is made. Now, this isn't the highest-capacity (5,000 mAh) or fastest portable charger. That's fine. What I usually need is a way to eke out a few more hours of battery life on my iPhone. I can typically get a full top-off of my iPhone 15 Pro. The Anker 622 MagGo is smaller than an iPhone 15 Pro. Jeff Carlson/CNET Making a stand The other appealing feature of the Anker 622 MagGo for me is its built-in stand. Honestly, it doesn't look like it should work well: It's a fabric-covered set of plastic pieces that lie flush against the case, folds in two places and attaches to the back of the unit with a magnetic strip when extended. Yet I've had no problems with the stability of my iPhone 15 Pro or even the larger iPhone 15 Pro Max size. The stand on the Anker 622 MagGo slides down and adheres with a magnetic strip. Jeff Carlson/CNET This also lets me use standby mode by turning the iPhone to landscape orientation (the magnets are strong enough to hold the phone in place) when it's on a table or desk. Flip the iPhone horizontally to take advantage of StandBy mode while charging. Jeff Carlson/CNET Smart port placement matters The charger gets its juice from a single USB-C port, which is positioned on the edge of the case, not the bottom. That means you can replenish it while the stand is open -- many chargers' ports are stuck on the bottom. Having the USB-C port on the side keeps it accessible even when in its stand configuration. Jeff Carlson/CNET That USB-C port also acts as a charger for other devices when you plug in a cable, such as when your Apple Watch needs a boost. Charge other devices, such as an Apple Watch, from the Anker 622's USB-C port. Jeff Carlson/CNET How the Anker 622 MagGo compares to similar power banks Before getting the Anker 622 MagGo, I carried an Anker PowerCore III 10K Wireless, which doubles the battery capacity, includes a USB-A port and charges wirelessly but without magnets to hold the phone in place. That meant if I didn't use a cable, the phone and charger needed to be stable and level; too often I'd find the iPhone slid off its wireless perch and not charged. It's also larger and heavier. I still use it, but it's the power bank that goes into my carry-on suitcase as a backup charger. The Anker 622 MagGo is much smaller and lighter than my old reliable Anker PowerCore III 10K Wireless, which is now a solid backup. Jeff Carlson/CNET Since I've owned this Anker 622 MagGo, the company has released a few updated models. The $60 Anker 633 packs 10,000 mAh into a thicker brick, includes a USB-A port in addition to USB-C and has a metal kickstand for resting the phone upright. You can also consider getting the chunkier Anker MagGo Power Bank that delivers 10,000 mAh and follows the same idea of compact magnetic charging and a convenient kickstand. Its main appeals are faster 15-watt magnetic charging and Qi2 compatibility, plus a small display on the side that reports the battery capacity and an estimate of the remaining battery in hours. (Note that some Anker power banks were part of a recent recall. Be sure to claim your free replacement or gift card if you own one of the affected devices sold between 2016 and 2022.) For more smart buys, check out this amazing multitool and a portable TV that can go anywhere.
CNET
20-06-2025
- CNET
iPhone 16E Specs vs. Google Pixel 8A: How Apple and Google's Lower-Cost Phones Match Up
Google's A-series Pixel handsets are typically budget-friendly, but currently the cheapest Google goes is $499 for the Pixel 9A. If you do want all of Google's flagship features and are comfortable with getting a used or refurbished device, you could check out last year's Pixel 8A which is going for under $300 in the secondary market. Strangely, Google is currently selling the Pixel 8A for the same price as the Pixel 9A, so it doesn't make sense to buy a new version of the Pixel 8A. A sub-$300 Pixel 8A is an especially good deal when compared to the entry-level $599 iPhone 16E. Sure, the iPhone 16E offers a lot of features for its price and is certainly the most affordable iPhone you can get at retail. Yet, that price isn't exactly affordable when compared to the Pixel 8A. If you prefer to buy new, we'll point you to the comparison of the Pixel 9A vs the iPhone 16E. But if you're open to getting a used Pixel 8A for an even lower price, we've compared the iPhone 16E and the Pixel 8A below. The iPhone 16E. James Martin/CNET Design and display The most obvious difference between the two phones is that the iPhone 16E has a notch at the top of the screen (The iPhone 16, on the other hand, has a Dynamic Island instead), while the Pixel 8A just has a single dot for the front-facing camera. Size-wise, however, they're both pretty comparable. They both roughly measure around 6 by 3 by 0.3 inches (you can find more exact measurements in the chart below), plus both have a 6.1-inch OLED screen. The iPhone 16E, however, has a fixed refresh rate of 60Hz, while the Pixel 8A can switch between 60 and 120Hz for smoother scrolling and a more immersive gaming experience. That said, the iPhone 16E's A18 processor does run more intensive games like Death Stranding and Resident Evil 4 Remake. While those more console-level games are not yet available on the Google Play Store, the Pixel 8A's Tensor G3 should still be able to run most Android games at medium to low graphics settings. Google's Pixel 8A. James Martin/CNET Cameras One of the biggest limitations of the iPhone 16E is that it just has a single rear 48-megapixel camera. The Pixel 8A, on the other hand, has two rear cameras placed within a camera bar on the back: a 64-megapixel lens plus a 13-megapixel ultrawide lens. Even when it comes to the front-facing selfie camera, the Pixel 8A's version is better. It has a 12-megapixel front-facing lens while the iPhone 16E has a 7-megapixel one. The Pixel 8A's cameras. James Martin/CNET AI features The iPhone 16E might be an entry-level handset, but it does support Apple Intelligence, a feature that was previously only in higher-end models like the 15 Pro and the iPhone 16. Apple Intelligence isn't fully fleshed out yet, but it currently offers some benefits including a Clean Up tool for removing obstacles in photos, text summarization plus writing tools that help correct editing errors. An improved Siri is also apparently on its way, but it has been delayed. The Pixel 8A, on the other hand, has all the features of Google's Gemini that are also on the higher-end Pixel handsets. It can run Google's Gemini Nano AI model, use photo-editing tools such as Best Take and Magic Eraser, and more. Gemini will eventually be the default assistant on all Android phones, and for now you can switch between the Google Assistant and Gemini. A home screen on the iPhone 16E. Celso Bulgatti/CNET Software support Both the Pixel 8A and the iPhone 16E have relatively lengthy software support. The Pixel 8A gets a total of seven years of major Android OS upgrades and security updates from its launch last year, which means you'll get six years if you buy one now that it's a year old. That's in line with the six years of support Samsung provides its new Galaxy A phones in the $200 to $300 range, and is double the support Motorola provides to its Moto G line. While Apple doesn't publish software and security support timelines, the iPhone 16E will likely get between five and seven years of software updates based on what has been provided to prior iPhone models. Security updates could be even longer, as even the original iPhone SE from 2016 received a security update earlier this year. Check out more differences between the iPhone 16E and the Google Pixel 8A in the chart below. Apple iPhone 16E vs. Google Pixel 8A Apple iPhone 16E Google Pixel 8A Display size, resolution 6.1-inch OLED display; 2,532x1,170 pixels; 60Hz refresh rate 6.1-inch OLED; 2,400x1,080 pixels, 60-120Hz adaptive refresh rate Pixel density 460 ppi 430 ppi Dimensions (inches) 5.78 x 2.82 x 0.31 in. 6 x 2.9 x 0.4 in. Dimensions (millimeters) 146.7 x 71.5 x 7.8 mm 152 x 74 x 10.2 mm Weight (ounces, grams) 167g (5.88 oz.) 193 g (6.8 oz.) Mobile software iOS 18 Android 14 Camera 48-megapixel (wide) 64-megapixel (main), 13-megapixel (ultrawide) Front-facing camera 12-megapixel 13-megapixel Video capture 4K 4K at 30/60 FPS Processor Apple A18 Google Tensor G3 RAM/Storage RAM unknown + 128GB, 256GB, 512GB 8GB + 128GB or 256GB Expandable storage None None Battery/Charger Up to 26 hours video playback, 21 hours streamed video playback, 90 hours of audio playback. 20W wired charging, 7.5W Qi wireless charging 4,492 mAh (18W fast charging, 7.5W wireless charging) Fingerprint sensor None, Face ID Under-display Connector USB-C USB-C Headphone jack None None Special features Action button, Apple C1 5G modem, Apple Intelligence, Ceramic Shield, Emergency SOS, satellite connectivity, IP68 resistance 5G (5G sub6 / mmWave), IP67 rating, VPN by Google One, Circle to Search, 7 years Android OS updates, 7 years security updates, Best Take, Audio Magic Eraser Price off-contract (USD) $599 (128GB) $499 Price (GBP) £599 (128GB) £499 Price (AUD) AU$999 (128GB) AU$849
CNET
12-06-2025
- CNET
Pixel 9A Buying Guide: Everything to Know About Google's Budget Phone
Google's latest budget phone, the $499 Pixel 9A, arrived fresh off the heels of Apple's "affordable" offering, the $599 iPhone 16E. Very convenient timing. The Pixel 9A is $300 cheaper than the baseline Pixel 9 and therefore scales back when it comes to features like cameras and RAM. But it maintains other attributes, like display size, processor and AI features -- and even touts a higher battery capacity than its pricier Pixel counterparts. For more on what the new phone has in store, be sure to check out CNET's Pixel 9A review. So, is the Pixel 9A a good fit for you? Here's our guide, with everything to consider. Camera guide The Pixel 9A has a wide and ultrawide camera. James Martin/CNET Being able to take good photos is usually a top priority when buying a new phone since, for most people, their phone is their only camera. The Pixel 9A has two cameras on the back: a 48-megapixel wide and 13-megapixel ultrawide, along with a 13-megapixel front-facing camera. That places the 9A's rear camera specs below those on the Pixel 9 and 9 Pro, but megapixels aren't the only factor in getting quality shots. (You can check out the spec chart below to see how the cameras compare on these phones.) The Pixel 9A's camera supports Macro Focus, meaning you can get closer to your subject -- like if you're snapping a close-up of your delicious meal -- and have it be in crisp focus. With the 9A, Google uses the main camera to enable Macro Focus instead of the ultrawide camera, as with many other phones. Now Playing: Review: Google's Pixel 9A Delivers on Price and Features 09:00 AI guide What's perhaps most notable about the Pixel 9A is the suite of AI editing tools you'll still have access to, even with that lower price. Features like Magic Editor can help clean up your shots and alter backgrounds, Best Take creates an image where everyone in a group photo looks their best, and Add Me employs AI and augmented reality to incorporate the photographer in the final image. For people who are curious about the myriad AI features companies are bombarding us with, the Pixel 9A can be a good device for dipping your toes in those waters, hopefully without feeling inundated -- and without shelling out too much cash to see what all the buzz is about. I find photo editing tools among the best uses of AI because they eliminate the need for pricey software and let you touch up photos directly on your device, with no special skills needed. But if you would rather venture deeper into AI territory, the 9A's still got you covered. You'll have access to Gemini to help with tasks like writing, brainstorming and carrying out actions across apps. You'll also get Circle to Search so you can learn more about whatever's on your screen -- a feature upon which I've become heavily reliant. Those features are great because they feel like a natural way to ease into AI since they're so deeply integrated into your device and seamless to use. With AI being a staple of almost every new phone, tapping into those capabilities without breaking the bank can be an enticing option for someone who still isn't sure what the big deal is -- and then see if the Pixel 9A changes their mind. For those who hold onto their phones The Pixel 9A has a similar 6.3-inch display as the Pixel 9 -- though the Pixel 9's screen has a higher max brightness. James Martin/CNET While carriers may expect you to upgrade your phone every two years, manufacturers like Google and Samsung have extended the window for software and security upgrades on their phones to seven years. That applies to lower-priced phones like the Pixel 9A as well, giving budget-conscious consumers even more reason to feel like they've scored a deal. Not buying a flagship device can also mean feeling less susceptible to the pressures of upgrades. It's typically more premium phones -- usually with minor tweaks -- that are aggressively pushed onto those keen to purchase the latest tech. If simply having a phone with key features is all that matters, then the Pixel 9A can be a good way to dodge all that noise. This can also make the Pixel 9A a good option for kids, who probably don't need the flashiest devices. Features like Family Link allow parents to manage privacy settings, screen time limits and location sharing, and they can also silence notifications and disable apps during school hours. The Pixel 9A has flat sides. James Martin/CNET The Pixel 9A packs the same Google Tensor G4 processor as the flagship Pixel 9 and 9 Pro but has 8GB of RAM instead of the 12GB and 16GB you'll get on those premium phones. That should still be more than enough for everyday use, like scrolling through social media, snapping photos and browsing the web. If you're a heavy mobile gamer, 8GB of RAM might not be ideal, but it won't be an issue for most people. The Pixel 9A's 6.3-inch OLED display matches up with what you'll get on the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro, so you don't have to scale back your viewing experience -- especially with a 60Hz to 120Hz variable refresh rate that should make scrolling seamless. And with a 5,100-mAh battery, the Pixel 9A should be able to last you throughout the day. Like the iPhone 16E, the Pixel 9A actually touts a higher battery capacity than its pricier peers, which each have a 4,700-mAh battery. That can also help you feel like you're getting the most bang for your buck. The Pixel 9A comes in four colors: obsidian, porcelain, peony and iris. James Martin/CNET What you won't get with this phone is the Pixel 9's Satellite SOS feature, which uses satellites to contact emergency services when you're out of range of a cell signal or Wi-Fi. But if you don't often find yourself in places without cell service, like on a remote hiking trail, then you hopefully shouldn't feel its absence. With all that in mind, if you have last year's Pixel 8A, there's probably not enough reason to upgrade to the 9A, as they share many of the same features, specs and AI capabilities. But if you've got a Pixel 7A and want to tap into some newer AI features, the 9A might be enticing. Similarly, if you have a Pixel 6A or older, you could see a noticeable improvement in the 9A's camera, battery life and overall performance. And if you'd rather hang tight to your phone and keep stretching your dollar, more power to you.
CNET
02-06-2025
- Business
- CNET
iPhone 16E vs. iPhone 16: How Apple's Budget Phone Compares to the Baseline Model
The $599 iPhone 16E is Apple's most affordable iPhone, and it shares many features with the $799 iPhone 16. But there are also some sacrifices you'll need to make for that $200 discount. While some core components like the A18 chip, iOS 18 and Apple Intelligence are the same for both devices, there are notable differences across the phones' cameras, designs and batteries. Best Memorial Day Deals CNET's team of shopping experts have explored thousands of deals on everything from mattresses and TVs to everyday essentials and outdoor fun so you can shop the best Memorial Day deals in one place. See now Here's how the more budget-friendly iPhone 16E compares to the baseline iPhone 16. Now Playing: iPhone 16E vs. iPhone 16: Spec Breakdown 05:44 Display and build The iPhone 16E is rated IP68 for water and dust resistance, just like the iPhone 16. Apple/CNET The iPhone 16E and iPhone 16 both have a 6.1-inch OLED display with a 60Hz refresh rate. The 16E has a peak brightness of 1,200 nits, while the 16 reaches 2,000 nits. A ceramic shield front and glass back are featured on each phone. The devices have an aluminum design and are about as heavy as each other, with the iPhone 16E weighing in at 167 grams and the iPhone 16 at 170 grams. Both phones also have an Action button, but only the iPhone 16 has a Camera Control button. The Dynamic Island feature is also limited to the pricier model. The devices each have an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance. Apple drops the home button on its new budget phone in favor of Face ID, just like the iPhone 16. Both devices also have a USB-C port, and neither has a headphone jack. The iPhone 16E comes in black and white, while the iPhone 16 comes in black, white, pink, teal and ultramarine. Battery and storage The iPhone 16E has Apple's C1 modem, which Apple says is the most efficient modem in an iPhone, and this should help lengthen battery life. Apple/Screenshot by Jeff Carlson/CNET Both the iPhone 16E and 16 come in 128GB, 256GB and 512GB options. Apple boasts that the 16E can get up to 26 hours of video playback and 21 hours of streamed video playback, while the 16 will last for up to 22 hours of video playback and 18 hours of streamed video playback. One of the reasons behind the cheaper iPhone's longer battery life is because it runs on Apple's very first 5G modem, called C1. The company says its C1 modem is the "most power-efficient modem ever in an iPhone" and as a result helps increase the phone's battery life. They each support 20-watt wired charging. The iPhone 16E supports 7.5W Qi wireless charging, while the iPhone 16 is capable of 15W Qi2 charging, as well as MagSafe wireless charging up to 25W with a 30W adapter or higher. Cameras at a glance The iPhone 16E is the only phone Apple sells with a single rear camera. Apple/Screenshot by Jeff Carlson/CNET You'll find a 48-megapixel wide camera on both the iPhone 16E and iPhone 16, as well as a 12-megapixel ultrawide camera on the 16. To make up for its lower camera count, the 16E uses sensor cropping to get a 2x magnification for better zoomed-in shots (as does the iPhone 16). Both phones have a 12-megapixel front-facing camera. You can shoot 4K video at 60 frames per second on each device. On the iPhone 16, you can shoot 1080p spatial video, but only at 30 frames per second. Apple Intelligence for all The iPhone 16E has the same Apple Intelligence features as the iPhone 16. Apple One of the biggest upgrades to Apple's lower-priced iPhone is the inclusion of Apple Intelligence, which was previously confined to iPhone 15 Pro models and the iPhone 16 lineup. Now you can spend less and still get access to features like a smarter Siri, writing tools and the Clean Up tool in photos. This move signals Apple's eagerness to get its AI suite into more people's hands, and indicates that AI is now a core component of any iPhone, from the cheapest option to the most premium. Check out the spec chart below for more details on each phone.
