In a market increasingly dominated by thousand-dollar devices, the release of a new, affordable entry-level model earlier this year was a welcome disruption. For too long, budget-conscious consumers had to choose between buying a three-year-old refurbished flagship or a new mid-range phone with compromised performance. This new device shatters that dichotomy by placing the latest-generation processor into a proven, classic chassis, creating a “wolf in sheep’s clothing” that offers incredible value.
The most surprising aspect of this device is its heart. It is powered by the same A-series chip found in the previous year’s flagship models. This means that for a fraction of the price, users get access to top-tier performance, capable of handling the most demanding 3D games and the latest AI-driven software features without a stutter. This decision ensures “future-proofing,” guaranteeing that the phone will remain fast and receive software updates for five or six years—a longevity that is unrivaled in the budget sector.
Design-wise, the device finally says goodbye to the antiquated home button and thick bezels of its predecessor. It adopts the modern, all-screen design with a notch, bringing it visually in line with the rest of the family. While it lacks the premium materials like titanium or a triple-lens camera system, the build quality is solid, utilizing aerospace-grade aluminum and durable ceramic-infused glass.
The single rear camera is a masterclass in computational photography. While it lacks an optical zoom lens, the 48-megapixel sensor allows for a “lossless” 2x digital crop that effectively acts as a telephoto lens. The software processing delivers dynamic range and portrait modes that rival phones twice its price. The only significant compromise is the screen technology; it sticks to a standard 60Hz refresh rate, missing out on the ultra-smooth scrolling found in the premium tiers. However, for the vast majority of users upgrading from older devices, the leap in color accuracy and brightness makes this a negligible omission.
This device represents a strategic aggressive move to capture the mid-range market. It offers a gateway into the ecosystem’s services—gaming, fitness, and storage—at a price point that is accessible to students and developing markets. It proves that you don’t need to spend a fortune to have a premium experience.
This article reviews the iPhone 16e (often referred to as the iPhone SE 4), which was released in February 2025 with an A18 chip and a modern all-screen design.