Apple launches iPhone 16e: A cheaper version of the iPhone 16 with Apple Intelligence support

Apple on Wednesday announced the launch of a cheaper version of the iPhone 16 called the iPhone 16e. This model represents Apple's effort to penetrate deeper into the more affordable smartphone segment while offering users the latest technology, including Apple Intelligence features. The new iPhone 16e will be available from 28 February at a price of $599 (approximately CZK 13,500).

Apple's new AI and affordable phone strategy

Incorporating Apple Intelligence into a more affordable iPhone could be key to spreading AI features to a wider range of users. Apple $AAPL has faced intensified competition in recent years from Google and Samsung, which have aggressively innovated their smartphones, particularly in the area of AI.

The move away from the iPhone SE series models, which Apple first introduced in 2016 and last updated in 2022, is also a significant shift. According to a Consumer Intelligence Research Partners survey, SE models accounted for only about 5% of U.S. iPhone sales by the end…