Apple Unveils $599 iPhone 16e, Featuring In-House C1 Modem in Break From Qualcomm

Apple has officially introduced the iPhone 16e, a lower-cost model priced at $599, marking a critical test for the company’s first in-house 5G modem chip, the C1. According to The Wall Street Journal, this move brings Apple one step closer to cutting ties with Qualcomm, which has long supplied the tech giant’s cellular modem chips.

Key Features of the iPhone 16e

• C1 5G Modem: Apple’s first in-house modem, which could lead to improved network performance and battery efficiency.
• No Home Button: The Touch ID fingerprint sensor is gone, replaced with Face ID for biometric security.
• Higher-than-expected pricing: At $599, the iPhone 16e costs more than analysts anticipated, positioning it between budget and premium models.

Apple’s Long-Term Strategy

By testing the C1 modem in the iPhone 16e, Apple is laying the groundwork to eventually bring its own modem technology to flagship models like the iPhone 17 Pro, further reducing its reliance on Qualcomm’s 5G chips.

As Apple continues to expand its in-house chip development, the iPhone 16e serves as a pivotal step in the company’s effort to control its entire hardware ecosystem.