Why the iPhone 16e Is Becoming Apple’s Best-Selling iPhone Ever

(Apple debuts iPhone 16e: A powerful new member of the iPhone 16 family - Apple) Two white iPhone 16e units shown front and back, highlighting the device’s edge-to-edge display and single rear camera.

Apple’s iPhone 16e has taken the smartphone market by storm since its debut in early 2025. As the newest member of the iPhone 16 family, the 16e quickly became a runaway hit, helping Apple capture the #1 spot in global smartphone sales for the first quarter of 2025 (iPhone 16e Helps Apple Take Q1 Top Spot in Global Smartphone Market - MacRumors). Priced accessibly and packed with popular features, this model has resonated with a broad audience worldwide – from long-time iPhone fans finally ready to upgrade, to new customers in emerging markets. In this blog post, we’ll explore why the iPhone 16e is the best-selling iPhone to date, covering its market impact, key reasons for its popularity (from price to battery life), how it stacks up to previous iPhones, Apple’s marketing strategy, real-world user feedback, and even the tradeoffs Apple made (and why most buyers don’t mind them). Our goal is to explain it all in a friendly, easy-to-understand way. Let’s dive in!

Introduction to iPhone 16e and Its Record-Breaking Impact

The iPhone 16e was introduced in February 2025 as a new, budget-friendly addition to Apple’s lineup (Apple debuts iPhone 16e: A powerful new member of the iPhone 16 family - Apple) (iPhone 16e: Specs Reviews, and Pricing for Apple's New Low-Cost Phone). Essentially, it’s Apple’s latest attempt at an “affordable iPhone” – combining much of the cutting-edge tech of the flagship iPhone 16 with a lower price tag. This strategy has paid off enormously. In its launch quarter, the 16e’s strong sales contributed to Apple clinching the top spot in global smartphone shipments with 19% market share, even in a period that’s usually dominated by Android rivals (Apple tops smartphone market on strong iPhone 16e sales) (Apple tops smartphone market on strong iPhone 16e sales). It’s rare for Apple to lead in the winter quarter (since their main iPhone launches are in the fall), but by launching the iPhone 16e mid-cycle, Apple gave itself a boost and “reshaped its sales cycle” to compete head-on with other brands in the early part of the year (Apple tops smartphone market on strong iPhone 16e sales).

Market impact: The 16e is not just selling well in traditional Apple strongholds like the U.S. or Europe – its affordable price has opened up new momentum in regions like India, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Africa (Apple tops smartphone market on strong iPhone 16e sales) (Apple tops smartphone market on strong iPhone 16e sales). These are areas where expensive iPhones previously had a smaller footprint. By offering a more accessible model, Apple saw double-digit sales growth in these markets (Apple tops smartphone market on strong iPhone 16e sales). In other words, the iPhone 16e is bringing a lot of new people into the Apple ecosystem. Analysts predict it could account for a sizable chunk of Apple’s revenue (around 10% of total sales, higher than the old iPhone SE contributed) (Apple's Newly Launched iPhone 16e Will Boost The iPhone Revenue For FY25, Predicts Deepwater's Gene Munster - Alibaba Gr Hldgs (NYSE:BABA), Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) - Benzinga). All of this sets the stage: the iPhone 16e has made a big splash, and it’s worth understanding what makes it so appealing.

Affordable Price Point with Flagship Value

One of the biggest reasons for the iPhone 16e’s popularity is its price. Apple set the 16e’s starting price at $599 (for the 128 GB model) (iPhone 16e Helps Apple Take Q1 Top Spot in Global Smartphone Market - MacRumors). Now, $599 isn’t exactly “cheap,” but in the world of iPhones it’s a significant discount. Consider that the standard iPhone 16 launched around $799, and the Pro models cost even more. By comparison, the 16e undercuts the regular iPhone 16 by $200 while still delivering much of the same core experience (Apple iPhone 16e vs. iPhone 16: What's the Difference? | PCMag). It’s also far below the $999+ price of a Pro iPhone. In short, the 16e made owning a current-generation iPhone more attainable for many people.

It helps to put this in context of Apple’s past offerings. The iPhone 16e essentially replaces the older iPhone SE series (Apple’s prior budget line) (iPhone 16e Helps Apple Take Q1 Top Spot in Global Smartphone Market - MacRumors). The last iPhone SE (2022 model) launched at $429, but it achieved that low price by using an outdated design (remember the iPhone 8 look with the home button) and older technology. The 16e costs more than the old SE, but for good reason – it’s a far more advanced device (we’ll detail the features next). Apple decided that many customers would be willing to pay a bit more than $429 in exchange for modern specs, and so far that bet seems to be paying off. Reviewers note that while $599 is higher than the SE’s price, it’s still well below any other new iPhone, making the 16e the most affordable model to support Apple’s latest features (Apple's Newly Launched iPhone 16e Will Boost The iPhone Revenue For FY25, Predicts Deepwater's Gene Munster - Alibaba Gr Hldgs (NYSE:BABA), Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) - Benzinga) (Apple's Newly Launched iPhone 16e Will Boost The iPhone Revenue For FY25, Predicts Deepwater's Gene Munster - Alibaba Gr Hldgs (NYSE:BABA), Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) - Benzinga). For countless buyers, especially those who held onto an iPhone 8 or X for years, $599 for a brand-new, fast iPhone was an attractive deal.

Importantly, Apple didn’t skimp on what matters. The iPhone 16e offers flagship-grade performance and battery life (identical to phones costing much more, as we’ll see) – so customers feel they’re getting real value. In many emerging markets, $599 is still a high price, but Apple backed it up with enough features that people see it as worth it. Carrier installment plans have also helped in regions like the U.S., spreading that cost out so it feels “free” with a contract, thus boosting adoption (Apple iPhone 16e Review: Questionable Value | WIRED). All told, the price/value ratio of the iPhone 16e has been a key driver: it hits a sweet spot where it’s not cheap, but it’s affordable enough to entice a huge segment of consumers who previously sat on the sidelines or were considering cheaper Androids.

Performance: The Power of the A18 Chip in a Budget iPhone

Price alone wouldn’t matter if the iPhone 16e felt slow or compromised. Thankfully, that’s not the case – another major reason it’s selling like hotcakes is that it’s just as fast and smooth as the pricier iPhones. The iPhone 16e is powered by Apple’s latest A18 chip, the very same processor used in the flagship iPhone 16 lineup (Apple debuts iPhone 16e: A powerful new member of the iPhone 16 family - Apple). This is unusual for Apple’s lower-cost phones – in the past, cheaper models often got last year’s chip. But with 16e, Apple gave it the newest engine, which means top-tier performance. Apps open quickly, games run beautifully, and the phone can handle advanced tasks like AI and photography processing with ease.

In fact, everyday users will hardly notice any performance difference between the 16e and an iPhone 16. Early tests confirmed that the 16e “acts and feels the same” as the standard iPhone 16 in terms of speed (Apple iPhone 16e vs. iPhone 16: What's the Difference? | PCMag). It has the same 6‑core CPU and 16‑core Neural Engine for machine learning. The only tiny downgrade is that the 16e’s A18 chip has one less GPU core (a 4-core GPU vs. the 5-core GPU in the regular iPhone 16) (Apple iPhone 16e vs. iPhone 16: What's the Difference? | PCMag) (Apple iPhone 16e vs. iPhone 16: What's the Difference? | PCMag). But in real-world use, even reviewers found this made no noticeable impact on gaming or graphics – the phone is still extremely powerful (Apple iPhone 16e Review: Questionable Value | WIRED). In other words, you’re getting flagship horsepower for $599, which is a huge selling point.

Crucially, having the A18 chip also means the iPhone 16e supports all of Apple’s latest software features. It runs iOS 18 out of the box and is fully compatible with new Apple Intelligence capabilities (Apple’s branding for on-device AI/personal assistant features). This includes things like smart image editing, AI-assisted writing tools, and more – none of which were available on older budget iPhones (iPhone 16e: Specs Reviews, and Pricing for Apple's New Low-Cost Phone). So buyers of the 16e aren’t missing out on the cool new stuff in the software. As analyst Gene Munster noted, part of the 16e’s appeal is that it’s the cheapest iPhone that can run Apple’s fancy new Intelligence features (Apple's Newly Launched iPhone 16e Will Boost The iPhone Revenue For FY25, Predicts Deepwater's Gene Munster - Alibaba Gr Hldgs (NYSE:BABA), Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) - Benzinga), effectively “future-proofing” the device for years of updates. All this makes the phone attractive not just to budget shoppers, but also to tech enthusiasts who care about longevity.

Finally, the 16e also debuts Apple’s first self-developed 5G modem, the C1 chip (Apple debuts iPhone 16e: A powerful new member of the iPhone 16 family - Apple). This is a behind-the-scenes change (replacing the third-party Qualcomm modem), but it brings some benefits: Apple claims the C1 modem is the most power-efficient yet, which helps battery life (iPhone 16e - Apple). It also means Apple controls the whole widget (both the A18 and the modem), which could lead to smoother connectivity and, in the long run, possibly lower costs. For consumers, what matters is the iPhone 16e offers fast 5G and reliable connections, just like more expensive models – with no compromises there either. Knowing they’re getting the latest tech under the hood gives buyers confidence that the 16e will perform well for many years to come, reinforcing its popularity.

All-Day Battery Life That Users Love

Ask any smartphone user what they want, and battery life is likely near the top of the list. The iPhone 16e absolutely shines here – it has one of the best battery performances of any iPhone ever, which has delighted consumers and driven a lot of positive word-of-mouth. Apple gave the 16e a larger battery and highly efficient components, resulting in “supersized” endurance. In Apple’s own words, the 16e lasts up to 6 hours longer in daily use than an iPhone 11, and up to 12 hours longer than the previous iPhone SE (iPhone 16e - Apple). In fact, it boasts the longest battery life of any 6.1‑inch iPhone to date (iPhone 16e's Battery Capacity Revealed in Real-World Battery Life Test - MacRumors) (iPhone 16e's Battery Capacity Revealed in Real-World Battery Life Test - MacRumors). For a device of its size, that’s a big achievement.

What do those specs mean in real life? Basically, most iPhone 16e owners can easily go a full day (or even two) on a single charge depending on use. For example, one tech reviewer found the 16e could stream video for an hour and not even drop 1% from the battery gauge (iPhone 16e's Battery Capacity Revealed in Real-World Battery Life Test - MacRumors) – whereas an iPhone 15 or 16 would drop a few percent in that time. In another test, the 16e lasted nearly 13 hours of continuous web browsing, outlasting the regular iPhone 16 by over an hour (iPhone 16e's Battery Capacity Revealed in Real-World Battery Life Test - MacRumors). Numbers aside, regular users are noticing the difference. Some new owners have described the battery life as “phenomenal,” with one commenter remarking that it “reminds me of my flip-phone days” when phones easily ran for multiple days (iPhone 16e battery life is truly phenomenal : r/IPhone16e - Reddit). This kind of feedback – people thrilled that their phone isn’t dying by dinner time – has made the 16e very attractive to buyers who prioritize battery life (which, frankly, is most people!).

How did Apple achieve this battery boost? Partly through the efficient A18 chip and C1 modem, which sip power more lightly, and partly by physically using a bigger battery. A teardown revealed the iPhone 16e’s battery capacity is around 4,000 mAh, which is over 10% larger than the battery in the standard iPhone 16 (iPhone 16e's Battery Capacity Revealed in Real-World Battery Life Test - MacRumors) (iPhone 16e's Battery Capacity Revealed in Real-World Battery Life Test - MacRumors). Apple slightly redesigned the internals (and omitted some power-hungry features like a second camera and high-refresh display) to free up more space for battery. The result is a phone that, despite being “budget,” actually beats some of Apple’s premium models in endurance. For consumers, this was a pleasant surprise – you don’t usually expect the cheaper phone to last longer than the expensive one, but the 16e does in many cases. This all-day (and then some) battery life has become a major selling point in Apple’s marketing and in user recommendations. It means less anxiety about finding a charger, and more time enjoying the phone, which makes the 16e especially appealing for power users, travelers, or anyone who’s had their day ruined by a dead battery in the past.

Camera: Good Enough for Most, Despite a Single Lens

We all love taking photos with our phones, and the camera is usually a big factor in a phone’s popularity. The iPhone 16e takes a somewhat different approach here: unlike its siblings that have multiple rear cameras, the 16e has just one rear camera – but it’s a high-quality 48 megapixel lens that pulls double duty. Apple calls it a “48MP Fusion camera” that’s like “getting two in one.” In practice, this means the single lens can shoot normal wide-angle photos and also perform a 2× optical-quality zoom (by cropping into that large 48MP sensor) (iPhone 16e - Apple) (iPhone 16e - Apple). So, even though there isn’t a dedicated telephoto or ultra-wide lens, the 16e still covers the standard focal lengths most people use day-to-day. You can take stunning high-resolution images, then zoom in and still get sharp results thanks to that sensor. It’s the same main camera sensor used in the higher-end iPhone 16 models (iPhone 16e - Apple), so photo quality in normal conditions is virtually identical to the more expensive phones.

For the typical user, this camera is more than sufficient. In fact, reviewers have been pleased with the shots from the iPhone 16e – it captures detailed, bright photos and 4K video with ease, just like the other iPhones (iPhone 16e - Apple) (iPhone 16e - Apple). It supports popular modes like Portrait mode (with depth control) and Night mode for low light, so you can still get creative with your photography. The only things you don’t get are some of the niche extras: there’s no ultra-wide lens for those sweeping landscape shots, and advanced modes like Cinematic video or Action mode stabilization aren’t included on the 16e (iPhone 16e: Specs Reviews, and Pricing for Apple's New Low-Cost Phone) (iPhone 16e: Specs Reviews, and Pricing for Apple's New Low-Cost Phone). For a photography enthusiast, those omissions might stand out. But for the average person who mostly snaps family pictures, food, pets, and the occasional vacation scenery, the iPhone 16e’s camera is fantastic. It “has the capabilities of two cameras in one” and produces images with up to 4× the resolution of older iPhones, which is a huge upgrade for anyone coming from, say, an iPhone XR or iPhone 8 (iPhone 16e - Apple).

It’s telling that Apple chose to market the camera not as a downgrade, but as an innovative 2-in-1 solution (Apple debuts iPhone 16e: A powerful new member of the iPhone 16 family - Apple). They clearly believed (rightly so) that many users would be perfectly happy with one great lens rather than two or three lenses that drive up cost. This decision helped keep the price down and battery life up (fewer cameras use less power), without making the user experience feel lacking for most. Indeed, consumer feedback reflects this: few mainstream users have complained about the missing ultra-wide; instead, many are just pleased that their everyday photos look great and that they can zoom in a bit when needed. Plus, the 16e still has a solid 12MP front camera for selfies and FaceTime, identical to the more expensive models (iPhone 16e: Specs Reviews, and Pricing for Apple's New Low-Cost Phone). In summary, while the camera hardware is simpler, it’s very capable. Apple hit a “good enough” sweet spot – the iPhone 16e can confidently claim to have a good camera (arguably better than any previous iPhone single-camera system), which removes another barrier for buyers worried about photo quality on a cheaper iPhone.

Modern Design and Features (Without the Frills)

Another factor driving the iPhone 16e’s popularity is that it looks and feels like a modern iPhone, not a throwback or a cheaped-out device. If you glance at the 16e, you’d see the family resemblance to an iPhone 14 or 15 – a 6.1-inch edge-to-edge screen, flat aluminum sides, and no Home button in sight. In fact, the 16e’s design is essentially a blend of the iPhone 14’s body and the iPhone 16’s internals (iPhone 16e: Specs Reviews, and Pricing for Apple's New Low-Cost Phone) (iPhone 16e: Specs Reviews, and Pricing for Apple's New Low-Cost Phone). It sports a 6.1″ Super Retina XDR OLED display (no more LCD like the old SE had) with vibrant colors and high contrast (iPhone 16e: Specs Reviews, and Pricing for Apple's New Low-Cost Phone) (iPhone 16e: Specs Reviews, and Pricing for Apple's New Low-Cost Phone). On the front, there’s the familiar Face ID notch housing the TrueDepth camera – Apple did not include the newer “Dynamic Island” cutout on this model, reserving that little animated UI feature for the higher iPhone 16 variants (iPhone 16e: Specs Reviews, and Pricing for Apple's New Low-Cost Phone). However, most non-technical users won’t mind the notch at all; it’s been the standard iPhone look for years and it means the 16e still has Face ID for easy unlocking and Apple Pay. Notably, with the 16e’s release, Apple fully retired the Home button design – for the first time since 2007, they aren’t selling any new iPhone model with a home button or Touch ID (Targeting the sinking market! Apple launches iPhone 16e, debuting its self-developed 5G modem, also supported by Apple Intelligence but 40% cheaper than Pro). So even as the “budget” option, the 16e ushers all users into the Face ID era with an all-screen front.

The build quality is characteristically Apple: solid. You get an aluminum frame and glass back (in either a classic matte black or white finish) (Apple debuts iPhone 16e: A powerful new member of the iPhone 16 family - Apple) (Apple debuts iPhone 16e: A powerful new member of the iPhone 16 family - Apple), which gives it a sleek, premium feel. There’s Ceramic Shield glass on the display for toughness, and water resistance, etc., just like more expensive models. In hand, the 16e doesn’t feel like a cheap device at all – it feels just like an iPhone 14 or 15, because it essentially is the same chassis. This has been a big deal for consumers who held off upgrading because they disliked the dated look of the iPhone SE (which until 2022 still had big bezels). Now they can get a modern-looking iPhone at a lower price, and that psychological factor has definitely helped sales.

Apple also included some newer features in the 16e that improve the user experience. For instance, the USB-C port has finally arrived on this affordable model, meaning one cable can charge your iPhone, iPad, Mac, etc. (iPhone 16e - Apple). This was partially due to regulations, but it’s a welcome upgrade from the old Lightning port. The 16e also features the new Action Button on its side (replacing the old mute switch) (iPhone 16e: Specs Reviews, and Pricing for Apple's New Low-Cost Phone). This customizable button lets users quickly launch a favorite feature – like turn on the flashlight, open the camera, or activate an accessibility shortcut – with a single press, which users find handy (iPhone 16e: Specs Reviews, and Pricing for Apple's New Low-Cost Phone). Previously, the Action Button was only on the high-end Pro model; bringing it to the 16e gave even budget buyers a taste of that new toy. Additionally, the iPhone 16e comes with all the safety and connectivity features that have become standard: 5G support, Wi-Fi 6 (not the very latest Wi-Fi 7, but still very fast), NFC for Apple Pay, and even Apple’s Emergency Satellite services (for SOS messaging when you’re off the grid) (Apple debuts iPhone 16e: A powerful new member of the iPhone 16 family - Apple). It’s nice to see that even at $599, Apple didn’t strip out the critical features that define the iPhone experience.

All told, the design and feature set of the iPhone 16e feel up-to-date and polished, which has been crucial in attracting buyers. There are a few things you don’t get – for example, the display is a standard 60 Hz refresh (not the silky 120 Hz ProMotion on high-end iPhones), and as mentioned, there’s no Dynamic Island. But these are relatively minor compromises for the average user. What matters is that someone upgrading from an older phone feels like they’re getting a cutting-edge device, and that’s exactly the feeling the 16e delivers. It’s a far cry from the “bargain bin” vibe that earlier budget models sometimes had. By giving the 16e a modern look and the key modern features, Apple made sure people buying the least expensive iPhone still feel like they have a current, proudly premium phone – and that has undoubtedly helped its sales soar.

(iPhone 16e Helps Apple Take Q1 Top Spot in Global Smartphone Market | MacRumors Forums) From left to right: iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16, and iPhone 16e. The iPhone 16e’s design closely resembles its siblings, though it has a single camera lens versus two or three on the others.

Apple’s Marketing and Positioning Strategy

It’s worth discussing how Apple positioned the iPhone 16e in the market, because this strategy is part of why it became a bestseller. Apple essentially took a two-pronged approach: deliver a phone that “brings iPhone to more people” (affordable yet powerful), and launch it at an opportune time to maximize impact.

First, Apple’s messaging around the 16e was all about making the iPhone experience more accessible. In their press release, Apple described the 16e as “a powerful, more affordable option to bring the iPhone experience to even more people” (Apple debuts iPhone 16e: A powerful new member of the iPhone 16 family - Apple). That pretty much sums it up – they wanted to appeal to customers who might have been priced out of the flagship models. By using the name “16e” and including it as part of the iPhone 16 family, Apple signaled that this isn’t a second-class device, but rather an equal member of the current lineup. (In fact, they deliberately avoided calling it “iPhone SE 4” because they felt it had enough of the latest features to deserve the iPhone 16 branding (iPhone 16e: Specs Reviews, and Pricing for Apple's New Low-Cost Phone).) The “e” in 16e isn’t officially defined, but you can think of it as standing for essential or everyone – the idea that this phone has all the essentials everyone wants, at a price more people can handle.

Apple’s marketing highlighted the 16e’s flagship perks – long battery life, A18 chip, great camera – at an “incredible value” (Apple debuts iPhone 16e: A powerful new member of the iPhone 16 family - Apple). Commercials and materials often focused on everyday benefits (like having battery left at night, or taking beautiful photos) which resonate with non-techy consumers. And in regions like India or Southeast Asia, Apple ramped up promotion of the 16e as the perfect entry into the iPhone world. They also made sure availability was broad: notably, Apple launched the iPhone 16e in more countries simultaneously, including doing a lot of manufacturing in India to ensure supply for that market (iPhone 16e: Specs Reviews, and Pricing for Apple's New Low-Cost Phone) (iPhone 16e: Specs Reviews, and Pricing for Apple's New Low-Cost Phone). This shows how positioning wasn’t just about price, but also about making the product physically available and localized (stores, financing deals, etc.) where it could attract new buyers.

Second, the timing of the launch was strategic. Apple released the iPhone 16e in late February 2025, a rare mid-cycle launch (since main iPhones come in September). By doing so, Apple filled a gap in its lineup and also gave itself a fresh product to drive sales during spring. This was aimed at countering competitors – for instance, Samsung usually releases its Galaxy S series in Q1, so Apple now had a new phone to steal some thunder. It worked: the 16e’s launch helped Apple go head-to-head with Android flagships in a season they typically dominated (Apple tops smartphone market on strong iPhone 16e sales). It also means the iPhone 16 family stayed in the news longer, keeping Apple’s momentum going between the big annual launches. Apple basically changed its playbook: instead of one big launch per year, they added a second smaller launch to sustain interest and cater to those who might have skipped the September models for something cheaper.

Another positioning element was target audience clarity. Apple knows exactly who the iPhone 16e is for: people who want an iPhone, but don’t need the absolute latest bells and whistles. This includes folks upgrading from much older iPhones (6, 7, 8, X) who just want a modern phone that will last, as well as switchers from Android who are attracted by the Apple ecosystem at a lower cost. Apple’s decision to drop certain features (which we’ll discuss next) was guided by research into this audience. According to Apple reps, the 16e’s target customers “exclusively charge their phones by plugging into a cable,” so leaving out wireless MagSafe charging wasn’t expected to bother them (Apple Provides Reason for iPhone 16e's Lack of MagSafe - MacRumors). In other words, Apple’s marketing and product choices were laser-focused on the needs of the mainstream, practical user – not the tech enthusiast who demands every feature. By positioning the 16e as “everything you need, nothing you don’t”, Apple tapped into a huge demographic that just wants a dependable, current iPhone without paying $1000. This clear message likely helped convert a lot of shoppers who were on the fence.

In summary, Apple’s strategy with iPhone 16e was to broaden the iPhone’s appeal both economically and geographically. They messaged it as a full-fledged iPhone 16 family member (not a cut-rate afterthought), launched it at a smart time, and targeted the marketing to highlight practical strengths (value, battery, performance) that matter to everyday users. This strategy has clearly worked, as evidenced by the sales numbers and the influx of new iPhone users in various markets. It’s a textbook example of Apple understanding its market segments and positioning a product to hit the bullseye.

Consumer Reception and Real-World Feedback

All the specs and strategy in the world mean little if consumers don’t actually like the product. In the case of the iPhone 16e, real-world reception has been overwhelmingly positive, validating Apple’s approach. Let’s look at how everyday users and the tech community have responded to the device after launch.

Sales figures already tell part of the story – the 16e is selling extremely well. While Apple doesn’t break down exact sales by model publicly, industry reports and analysts have strong indicators. As mentioned, Apple reached a record high market share in Q1 2025 largely “riding strong demand for the iPhone 16e” (Apple tops smartphone market on strong iPhone 16e sales). It’s rare to see a single model have such a notable impact, but the 16e appears to have done just that. There were even reports of stock shortages in some regions at launch because demand was a bit higher than Apple initially anticipated (which is a good problem for them to have). Analysts like Ming-Chi Kuo project over 20 million units of iPhone 16e will ship in its first year (Targeting the sinking market! Apple launches iPhone 16e, debuting its self-developed 5G modem, also supported by Apple Intelligence but 40% cheaper than Pro) (Targeting the sinking market! Apple launches iPhone 16e, debuting its self-developed 5G modem, also supported by Apple Intelligence but 40% cheaper than Pro), which would indeed make it one of the best-selling iPhones in recent memory. For comparison, Apple’s previous “hit” in the affordable range was the iPhone XR in 2018, which became the top-selling phone of its year – the iPhone 16e seems on track to follow that pattern, if not exceed it.

Beyond the numbers, what are consumers saying? By and large, people who bought the iPhone 16e are happy with it. Many upgraders coming from older models talk about how the 16e feels like a huge leap forward – not surprising, since they suddenly get Face ID, OLED screen, 5G, and that incredible battery life, none of which they had before. One common theme in user feedback is battery delight (as we covered): new owners often express amazement at how long the phone lasts. For example, on social media and forums, you see comments like “I got the 16e and after a full day of use I still have 40% left – this never happened with my old phone!” Battery satisfaction is a big contributor to positive reviews.

Another area of praise is performance and smoothness. Regular users might not know or care about the “A18” name, but they do notice that the phone feels fast and responsive. Apps open instantly, and there’s no lag, which is appreciated especially by folks whose previous device was starting to bog down with age. Also, because the 16e runs the latest iOS features, people are exploring things like the new Apple Intelligence (some have mentioned trying the on-device AI features for the first time and finding them neat) – it makes them feel they got the full iPhone experience despite paying less.

Camera feedback from everyday users tends to be that the iPhone 16e takes great photos and videos, which is what they hoped for. If someone came from an older iPhone with a 12MP camera, the jump to 48MP is very noticeable in clarity. The lack of an ultra-wide lens hasn’t been a common complaint outside of tech enthusiast circles. Most people use the main camera most of the time, and they’re finding that pictures of their kids, pets, and travels look fantastic with the 16e. In essence, the device meets or exceeds the expectations of its target audience in the camera department.

Of course, not every single person is 100% satisfied – there have been some criticisms (which we’ll detail next), primarily from tech reviewers or power users who notice what was left out. But it’s telling that many of those critiques come with a caveat like: “Despite these omissions, for the average customer, the iPhone 16e is a perfectly fine choice.” In a review roundup, MacRumors noted that reviewers largely praised the 16e’s modern chip, long battery life, and updated design, while acknowledging the missing features like MagSafe (iPhone 16e: Specs Reviews, and Pricing for Apple's New Low-Cost Phone) (iPhone 16e: Specs Reviews, and Pricing for Apple's New Low-Cost Phone). And indeed, the word-of-mouth from regular consumers has been positive on the things that are in the phone rather than what isn’t. When a device’s actual owners are happy and recommend it to others, that creates a virtuous cycle of even more sales – and that seems to be happening with the 16e. It’s getting recommendations as the “go-to iPhone for anyone who doesn’t need a Pro model,” which is a large swath of people.

In summary, the iPhone 16e’s real-world reception has validated it as a hit. Strong sales momentum, high customer satisfaction with its battery and performance, and a general sense that it delivers on its promises have all contributed to making it Apple’s best-selling iPhone in recent times. Now, for completeness, let’s address those omissions and see how Apple handled them, because no product is perfect and understanding the trade-offs is important.

Tradeoffs and Criticisms: What’s Missing and Why Most Don’t Mind

It wouldn’t be fair to call the iPhone 16e an outright perfect device. Apple did make a few tradeoffs to hit that $599 price, and some tech pundits have not been shy about pointing them out. The good news for Apple (and buyers) is that these compromises were strategically chosen so that the 16e’s target users either won’t miss them or can live without them. Let’s go through the main criticisms and how Apple addressed them:

No MagSafe wireless charging: This is perhaps the most talked-about omission. Since 2020, every new iPhone had MagSafe (Apple’s magnet-based wireless charging and accessory system) – until the 16e. Many reviewers found it “surprising and disappointing” that MagSafe was left out (iPhone 16e Reviews: Is It Worth $599? - MacRumors) (iPhone 16e: Specs Reviews, and Pricing for Apple's New Low-Cost Phone). Practically, this means the iPhone 16e can only do standard Qi wireless charging at slower speeds (about 7.5W), and it won’t magnetically snap to chargers or wallets. Apple’s reasoning? They explicitly said that for the 16e’s intended customers, wireless charging speed or convenience isn’t a priority, as most of them “exclusively charge by cable.” (Apple Provides Reason for iPhone 16e's Lack of MagSafe - MacRumors) In other words, Apple determined that the average budget iPhone user still plugs in their phone overnight and wouldn’t care about MagSafe. By cutting the MagSafe coils, Apple saved on cost and also made room for that bigger battery. They even had to publicly clarify that the omission wasn’t due to any technical modem interference – it was a conscious choice based on user research (Apple Provides Reason for iPhone 16e's Lack of MagSafe - MacRumors) (Apple Provides Reason for iPhone 16e's Lack of MagSafe - MacRumors). And indeed, many upgraders from older iPhones never had MagSafe to begin with, so they don’t miss what they never used. For those who do want magnetic mounting, there are third-party cases with magnets that emulate MagSafe (albeit without the faster charging) (Apple Provides Reason for iPhone 16e's Lack of MagSafe - MacRumors). So, while tech reviewers lamented the loss, the typical 16e buyer hasn’t considered it a deal-breaker, validating Apple’s decision.
Only one rear camera (no ultra-wide lens): We discussed the camera setup earlier – the 16e lacks the ultra-wide lens found on other iPhones. This was a necessary compromise to keep costs down and simplify the design (also likely improving battery by not powering extra sensors). Power users who love the creative flexibility of an ultra-wide or optical zoom lens might feel restricted. Some reviews note that it “really feels like it should come with more [lenses]” at this price (Apple iPhone 16e Review: Questionable Value | WIRED). Apple’s take: They tried to mitigate this by using a high-res 48MP sensor to provide a 2x zoom option, covering at least two focal lengths in one lens (iPhone 16e - Apple). In essence, Apple is betting that a solid main camera that can do a bit of zoom is enough for most people – and they’re probably right. The iPhone XR in 2018 also had one camera and was that year’s bestseller, showing that mainstream consumers value a good general-purpose camera over multiple lenses of varying quality. While techies know what they’re missing, the average 16e user is still happily capturing great pics. And if someone truly cares about ultra-wide or telephoto, Apple expects they’d opt for the iPhone 16 or Pro models instead. So, this tradeoff, like MagSafe, was about knowing the audience.
No Ultra-Wideband (UWB) chip: This is a more niche point. Recent iPhones have a U1 chip for ultra-wideband, which enables precise location tracking (used for things like pinpointing AirTags or using Digital Car Keys). The 16e does not have this chip (Apple iPhone 16e Review: Questionable Value | WIRED). Again, Apple figured that most budget consumers won’t be using those specific features extensively. It’s a cost save that few have noticed – unless you’re an AirTag power user, you wouldn’t even know it’s missing. For everyday use, GPS and Bluetooth still handle location and AirDrop just fine.
Older connectivity standards: Along with no UWB, the 16e sticks with Wi-Fi 6 (not Wi-Fi 6E/7) and possibly lacks mmWave 5G support that U.S. carriers use in city hotspots (Apple iPhone 16e vs. iPhone 16: What's the Difference? | PCMag). These are all things that look bad on a spec sheet but have minimal impact on the daily experience of the target user. Wi-Fi 6 is still extremely fast for home use; mmWave 5G is very situational (and the sub-6GHz 5G that the 16e has works everywhere). So, these cuts make the phone cheaper and more power-efficient, with negligible downside for most customers.
60 Hz Display (no high refresh rate): The iPhone 16e’s display is capped at the traditional 60 Hz refresh, whereas some competing Android phones at this price have 90Hz or 120Hz screens for smoother scrolling. Even Apple’s own Pro models have 120Hz. This was partly expected, as Apple has so far reserved ProMotion (high refresh) for higher-end devices. Some tech reviewers and spec-conscious buyers groaned about this, calling the 60Hz screen a bit old-fashioned in 2025 (Apple iPhone 16e Review: Questionable Value | WIRED). However, Apple knows that many users don’t notice refresh rate unless they’re shown a side-by-side comparison. The 6.1″ OLED is otherwise excellent in brightness and color, so most 16e users are perfectly satisfied with the display quality. It’s a tradeoff that helps battery life too (120Hz screens consume more power), which aligns with the 16e’s battery-first ethos. So while it’s a “con” on paper, it hasn’t significantly hurt the reception.

In short, the notable omissions on the iPhone 16e (MagSafe, extra camera, UWB, etc.) were intentional and calculated. Apple’s stance is basically: the 16e includes everything its core audience truly needs, and leaves out some “nice-to-haves” that those buyers probably won’t miss. As one commentator wryly noted, “I think Apple knows the 16e’s intended audience better than I do,” suggesting that the company likely did its homework on what features matter most (Apple Provides Reason for iPhone 16e's Lack of MagSafe - MacRumors). And the sales and satisfaction so far back that up. Apple also benefits by differentiating the more expensive models – if you really want every feature under the sun, you have reason to spend more on an iPhone 16 or Pro. But for millions of people, the 16e hits the sweet spot of functionality and price.

The criticisms from tech press have been largely along the lines of “it’s a great phone but if only Apple had priced it $100 less, or included X feature.” For example, WIRED praised the 16e’s performance and battery yet called it “not the best bang for your buck” mainly because they felt $599 was slightly high and lamented missing MagSafe and ultra-wideband (Apple iPhone 16e Review: Questionable Value | WIRED) (Apple iPhone 16e Review: Questionable Value | WIRED). Yet even that review admitted the 16e will be a fine upgrade for many mainstream users (Apple iPhone 16e Review: Questionable Value | WIRED). Apple’s response, effectively, is that the value is there for what you get – and indeed many customers are agreeing by voting with their wallets.

In areas where there was outcry (MagSafe, for instance), Apple directly addressed it by explaining their rationale (Apple Provides Reason for iPhone 16e's Lack of MagSafe - MacRumors). And as a minor consolation, if someone really wants MagSafe-like functionality, third-party solutions exist as mentioned. So, none of these tradeoffs have significantly hindered the iPhone 16e’s appeal to its target demographic. On the contrary, by smartly trimming these features, Apple was able to enhance the aspects users care about (battery, performance, reliability) and price the phone more aggressively. That strategy is a big part of why the iPhone 16e is a bestseller – it delivers 90% of what an average user wants in a phone, for a fraction of the top-model price, and the other 10% of nice extras were judiciously left on the cutting-room floor.

Conclusion: The Right iPhone at the Right Time

Bringing it all together, the iPhone 16e’s success boils down to a perfect alignment of product and people’s needs. Apple crafted an iPhone that hits the sweet spot – it’s affordable without feeling “cheap,” it’s packed with performance and battery life, and it focuses on the features most users truly care about (great screen, great camera, easy to use, long lasting) while leaving out a few luxury perks that many can live without. In doing so, Apple managed to attract a huge wave of buyers who either couldn’t justify the higher cost of recent iPhones or were waiting for something exactly like this.

The iPhone 16e has had a notable market impact, boosting Apple’s sales in historically weaker quarters and drawing in new customers from around the globe (Apple tops smartphone market on strong iPhone 16e sales) (Apple tops smartphone market on strong iPhone 16e sales). It demonstrates Apple’s ability to adapt its strategy – offering a new model at a new time of year – to meet the market where it’s at. In an era where the overall smartphone market has been slowing, the 16e injected fresh energy and gave people a reason to upgrade now rather than later. It’s interesting to see how a company known for premium products is finding success by slightly bending its premium rules – essentially saying, “Here’s a budget-friendly iPhone that’s still an iPhone through and through,” and convincing buyers that it’s worth every penny.

For consumers reading this, the takeaway is clear: the iPhone 16e is popular because it delivers. If you’ve been holding on to an older phone and sticker shock kept you from Apple’s latest, the 16e might be the device that finally fits your budget while still feeling like a big leap forward. Its stellar battery life, speedy performance, and modern design mean you’re not compromising on the core smartphone experience. And judging by the record-breaking sales and glowing feedback from new owners, you wouldn’t be alone in choosing it – the iPhone 16e has quickly proven itself as one of the most beloved iPhones Apple has ever released.

In the end, Apple has shown with the iPhone 16e that “best-selling” doesn’t have to mean a bland crowd-pleaser; it can mean a device that genuinely resonates with what people want. By balancing price and features just right, the iPhone 16e earned its title as the best-selling iPhone to date, and it sets a high bar for whatever comes next in the world of smartphones.

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