Deals: iPhone 16e pre-orders start while we look at some alternatives

iPhone SE Discontinued: What are Yoru Options Now?

Apple has discontinued the iPhone SE, leaving those who cherished its compact size and affordability in a bit of a predicament. What options remain for consumers seeking an iPhone without the hefty price tag of the latest models?

Enter the iPhone 16e: A Budget-Friendly, Yet Compromise-Filled Choice

Stepping into the void left by the iPhone SE is the iPhone 16e. Priced at €700/£600/$600/₹60,000 for a 128GB model, it’s essentially Apple’s budget flagship.Pre-orders began this past Friday,with sales commencing next week.

The 16e,however,comes with some notable compromises. It features a “binned” A18 chipset with one fewer GPU core compared to the standard A18, meaning a slight performance dip. While it supports apple Intelligence, it lacks the ultra-wide lens found on the iPhone 15 and 16.

The display, while a 6.1-inch OLED panel,operates at a standard 60Hz refresh rate. Further adding to the retro feel,it carries a sizable notch for Face ID,with no Touch ID option.

The omission of MagSafe is a meaningful practical drawback, eliminating the convenience of magnetically attaching chargers, holders, and accessories. Wireless charging is supported (Qi, 7.5W),but without MagSafe’s ease of use.

Weighing Alternatives: iPhone 15, iPhone 16, Refurbished Models, and Android Contenders

The iPhone 15, priced just €40 more than the 16e, presents a compelling option, boasting USB-C charging, a Dynamic Island, and a 48MP main camera with in-sensor 2x zoom. However, it lacks Apple Intelligence.

For those seeking the Dynamic Island and a better camera system, the iPhone 16 is a step up, offering a 12MP ultra-wide camera, proper MagSafe support, and UWB for smart tags.It comes at a premium, but Amazon often offers competitive deals.

Refurbished iPhones are also worth considering.the iPhone 14 Pro, with its 120Hz Dynamic Island display, 48MP main, 12MP 77mm telephoto, and 12MP ultra-wide cameras, UWB, and magsafe, can be found for less than the iPhone 16e.

Beyond the Apple ecosystem, Android phones offer compelling alternatives. The Google Pixel 9, priced at €750 for a 128GB unit, boasts a 120Hz display, a 50MP main camera, and an ultra-wide module.While it lacks UWB, it supports satellite messaging and Google’s rapidly evolving AI offerings.

Samsung’s Galaxy S24, available for €600, stands out with its 120Hz LTPO display, punch-hole camera, and a powerful camera system with a 50MP main, 10MP 67mm telephoto, and 12MP ultra-wide.

Making Your Decision: Balance Your Needs with Your Budget

Choosing the right phone ultimately depends on your individual needs and priorities. Consider your budget, desired features, and ecosystem preferences. Research and compare options thoroughly before making a decision.

Considering the discontinuation of the iPhone SE, what othre Apple devices or alternatives are there for budget-conscious consumers?

iPhone SE Discontinued: Navigating the New Landscape wiht Apple’s Budget Flagship and Beyond

In light of Apple’s decision to discontinue the iPhone SE, leaving fans of compact, affordable iPhones in a lurch, we sat down with Jonathan Green, Tech Analyst and Contributing Editor at mobiletech magazine, to discuss the new iPhone 16e and other viable options in the market.

Introducing the iPhone 16e: Apple’s Budget Flagship

Archyde (A): Jonathan, can you give us a rundown of the new iPhone 16e?

Jonathan Green (JG): Sure, the 16e is Apple’s answer to the void left by the iPhone SE. It’s essentially a budget flagship, with a starting price of €700/£600/$600/₹60,000 for the 128GB model.

A: It’s slightly pricier than the SE, but it’s still a considerable saving compared to the top models. What key features can we expect?

JG: The 16e comes with Apple’s latest A18 chipset, though it’s a “binned” version with one fewer GPU core. it supports Apple Intelligence, but misses out on the ultra-wide lens found on the iPhone 15 and 16. It’s a 6.1-inch OLED display, but it’s only 60Hz, and it retains the sizable notch for Face ID, with no Touch ID option.

Compromises in a Budget Package

A: That’s quite a few compromises for a ‘budget’ flagship. Can you elaborate on the missing MagSafe functionality?

JG: Absolutely. MagSafe is a meaningful practical loss,eliminating the convenience of magnetically attaching chargers,holders,and accessories. The 16e supports wireless charging (Qi,7.5W), but it’s not as user-friendly without MagSafe.

Exploring Other Options

A: Apart from the 16e, what other Apple devices or alternatives are there for budget-conscious consumers?

JG: For €40 more, the iPhone 15 offers USB-C charging, a Dynamic Island, and a 48MP main camera with in-sensor 2x zoom, but it lacks Apple Intelligence. The iPhone 16 provides better camera system and proper MagSafe support,but it comes at a premium. Refurbished models like the iPhone 14 pro offer great value.

A: And what about Android alternatives?

JG: The Google Pixel 9,priced at €750,provides a 120Hz display,50MP main camera,and an ultra-wide module,but lacks UWB. Samsung’s Galaxy S24, available for €600, stands out with its 120Hz LTPO display and powerful camera system.

Making an Informed Decision

A: So, Jonathan, what advice would you give to consumers trying to make sense of these options?

JG: I’d advise them to consider their budget, desired features, and ecosystem preferences. Research and compare options thoroughly, as the right phone ultimately depends on individual needs and priorities. It’s a personal decision that should balance functionality with cost.

A: Lastly, do you think Apple will ever revisit the compact form factor, say, with an iPhone SE 3?

JG: It’s hard to say.Apple seems to be moving towards larger displays. However, if there’s strong consumer demand, they might consider revisiting the compact form factor in the future.

A: Fascinating. Thanks for your insights, Jonathan.

JG: My pleasure, always enjoy sharing my perspectives.