Three years have passed between the release of the third-generation iPhone SE and the iPhone 16E, Apple's latest budget phone. That's a relatively long time for mobile developments to evolve -- and for the sticker price to rise alongside those improvements.

A rumor from some weeks back is suddenly gathering steam, suggesting a different iPhone is on the brink of release.

Apple didn't simply change the expected iPhone SE 4 name to iPhone 16e — they're distinct product lines and all the data points to a strategy shift.

Since the iPhone 16e does not have an ultra-wide camera, Apple has also elected not to include two camera features that are on the iPhone 14: Cinematic mode and Action mode. These modes enhance video quality by adding a depth-of-field effect and stability to shaky video footage.

The iPhone 16e starts at $599 for 128GB and will be available for preorder on February 21. The phone will be available on February 28. A 256GB version and a 512GB version will run you $699 and $899, respectively.

Wondering whether the new iPhone 16e is a big upgrade over the 2022 iPhone SE? Here is our iPhone 16e vs iPhone SE 3 comparison.

If you’re an iPhone SE 3 user, check out what changes have been made and whether now is the time for an upgrade (hint: it is). With its introduction, the iPhone 16e is now the most affordable iPhone on the market.

Apple's revolutionary iPhone 16e delivers substantial upgrades over SE 3, featuring the crucial A18 chip. Read why we're cautiously optimistic on AAPL stock.

Macworld When reviewing a new device, as with so many things, it’s important to keep an open mind. But I could tell within a matter of hours that the iPhone 16e and I were not going to get on. It was the end of the day.

Apple announced the iPhone 16e about a week ago, but it wasn’t on sale from the get-go. The pre-order period was valid until now, but units have now started to ship to consumers, and the iPhone 16e is available to buy in stores.

Phone 16e - Clean Up - The new iPhone 16e comes with supersized battery life, a 48MP Fusion camera, and a durable design. It’s built for Apple Intelligence and powered by A18, the latest-generation chip.