From iPhone SE to iPhone 16e: How special edition iPhones evolved over time

Apple recently launched the new iPhone 16e, a new take on a familiar concept for the iPhone range of smartphones. While iPhones are usually premium offerings, the 16e is an attempt to make the range more accessible with competitive pricing, but without compromising on the classic Apple smartphone experience.

The iPhone 16e brings most of what users love about the iPhone 16 series, but with a few changes and call-backs to older devices in an effort to make the smartphone more accessible in terms of pricing.

If you’re thinking of picking up the new iPhone 16e and getting onto the Apple way of things, you might be interested in knowing a bit more about the iconic smartphone series and Apple’s original SE lineup which the 16e is inspired by. Take a look at some of the most notable ‘affordable’ Apple iPhone launches over the years, from the iPhone SE to the all-new iPhone 16e.

Notable and memorable ‘affordable’ iPhones over the years

Apple iPhone 5c (2013)

Apple iPhone SE (2016)

Apple iPhone SE (2nd Gen) (2020)

Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) (2022)

Apple iPhone 16e (2025)

Apple iPhone 5c

While many think of the iPhone SE lineup as the first attempt at making iPhone devices more accessible, it’s worth remembering the Apple iPhone 5c. Launched in 2013 alongside the iPhone 5s, the iPhone 5c was pitched as a more affordable alternative to the high-end flagship 5s device, and featured a polycarbonate body unlike the aluminium body of the 5s.

Apple iPhone SE

Launched in 2016, the Apple iPhone SE came in between the iPhone 6s and iPhone 7 series, with similar internal hardware to the iPhone 6s. However, in terms of design, it closely resembled the iPhone 5s, offering current-generation performance at the time but with a slightly older design to ensure a more competitive price point.

Apple iPhone SE (2nd Gen)

Apple launched the second-generation iPhone SE in 2020, after the 11 series and before the 12 series. Like the original SE, the second-gen SE featured hardware similar to that of the iPhone 11 series including the A13 Bionic processor, but a design that closely resembled the iPhone 8 and camera features similar to those on the iPhone XS and XR.

Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)

The iPhone SE (3rd Gen) was launched by Apple in 2022, between the iPhone 13 series and iPhone 14 series. The design didn’t change, with the third-generation SE featuring the same iPhone 8-like design. However, the hardware was on par with what you got on the iPhone 13 series, including the A15 Bionic chip. Like earlier SE models, the third-gen gets a single-camera setup at the back.

Apple iPhone 16e

Although Apple has discontinued the ‘SE’ terminology, the new iPhone 16e is the spiritual successor to the SE lineup. The smartphone is considered the entry-level option in the iPhone 16 lineup and is powered by the A18 chipset, but with a slightly different GPU configuration than the iPhone 16. 

The notch design at the front of the new phone is similar to that of the iPhone 13 and iPhone 14. It features a single 48-megapixel camera at the back, works with Apple Intelligence, and also comes with Apple’s first custom cellular modem for 5G connectivity, the Apple C1. 

ALSO READ: iPhone 16e vs iPhone 15: Which one should you buy?

Are you planning to buy the new Apple iPhone 16e? It’s a great and cost-effective way to get onto the Apple ecosystem for those who are interested.