For those who found the $800 price tag of the new iPhone with Apple Intelligence unpalatable, there’s some good news: Apple has just unveiled the iPhone 16e, priced at $599. This more affordable option strikes a balance in terms of specifications, which is a polite way of saying it doesn’t come with all the bells and whistles.
Despite this, the iPhone 16e still boasts an impressive array of features, including a 6.1-inch screen, a notch for FaceID, USB-C, and Apple’s A18 processor. Additionally, it includes an action button, a feature that was introduced with the iPhone 15 series, although it lacks Camera Control.
The iPhone 16e is equipped with the same A18 processor as the $800 iPhone 16, providing access to the full range of Apple Intelligence features. These include generative AI writing tools, Genmoji, Image Playground, Visual Intelligence, and ChatGPT integration. This represents a mixed bag in terms of features and price.
A notable aspect of the iPhone 16e’s hardware is its single 48-megapixel Fusion camera, which may seem modest compared to the triple-camera setup found on ‘pro’ iPhones. The last time a single-camera smartphone was reviewed was the Pixel 4a in 2020, and also the last iPhone SE.
Apple has also chosen to omit wireless charging and MagSafe’s magnetic ring from the iPhone 16e, a decision that may come as a surprise. Although wireless charging has its drawbacks, such as being slow and inefficient, the magnetic aspect of MagSafe has introduced more elegant tripods and phone mounts that can secure iPhones without the need for a clamp or plug. In recent years, unofficial MagSafe cases have become available for other smartphones, allowing for similar functionality.
The iPhone 16e will be available in black and white starting February 28, and while it may not have MagSafe, there will be colorful cases available to accessorize the device.
(It’s worth noting that the Pixel 8a has seen a price drop to $399, making it an interesting alternative.)
— Mat Smith
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HP has bought the company’s IP, but it doesn’t want the pins.
The company behind the widely ridiculed AI assistant badge has sold its assets to HP for $116 million, a far cry from the billion-dollar buyout it had hoped for.
In a note to customers, the company announced that AI Pins will continue to function until 12PM PT on February 28, after which they will cease to work. Customers who are still within the 90-day return window will be eligible for a refund.
And a price tag to match the Galaxy Z Fold 6.
Oppo’s Find N5 is notable for being thinner than a headphone jack when unfolded and weighing a mere 229 grams, which is only slightly more than a typical flagship phone. Despite its compact footprint, it features a 6.62-inch outer display and an 8.12-inch inner screen, powered by a seven-core Snapdragon 8 Elite processor and a 5,600mAh battery that supports 80W wired charging and 50W wireless charging. Although the device is technically impressive, there is no word on when it will be available in the US. Typically, Oppo devices are released in the US under the OnePlus brand, but with no plans for a OnePlus Open 2 this year, consumers may need to look elsewhere to purchase one. Be prepared for a hefty price tag, nearing $2,000.
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