Apple has officially announced the iPhone 16E, a budget-friendly flagship device that succeeds the iPhone SE. The new phone is set to launch on February 28th, with preorders starting this Friday, February 21st, at 8AM ET. The iPhone 16E will be available in two colors, matte black and matte white, and will start at $599 for the 128GB base model.

The iPhone 16E boasts flagship-level performance, thanks to the Apple Intelligence-ready A18 chip, which was previously featured in last year's iPhone 16. The device also sports a 6.1-inch OLED display with a notch to house the front-facing camera and Face ID sensors. The display is a significant upgrade from the iPhone SE's LCD screen, offering a more immersive viewing experience.

In terms of camera capabilities, the iPhone 16E features a lone 48-megapixel camera that can capture 24-megapixel photos with up to 2x optical zoom. The camera also supports 4K video recording up to 60 frames per second with Dolby Vision, as well as spatial audio with post-recording Audio Mix adjustments. Additionally, the phone has a customizable Action Button, replacing the physical home button found on older iPhone models.

Other notable features of the iPhone 16E include a USB-C port, replacing the Lightning port, and 7.5W Qi wireless charging capabilities. However, the device lacks MagSafe support. The phone also features Apple's homegrown C1 modem, which supports 5G connectivity but does not include the faster mmWave radios.

Apple has confirmed that the iPhone 16E will be available for preorder at its online store, with other retailers and carriers likely to follow. The device will be sold unlocked or activated through Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, or Boost Mobile. Official silicone cases will also be available for $39 apiece, with five color options to choose from.

The iPhone 16E's launch marks a significant shift in Apple's strategy, as the company appears to be discontinuing the iPhone 14. This move suggests that Apple is focusing on its budget-friendly offerings, catering to customers who want flagship-level performance without the premium price tag.

With the iPhone 16E, Apple is poised to capture a larger share of the mid-range smartphone market. The device's competitive pricing, combined with its impressive feature set, makes it an attractive option for those looking for a high-quality iPhone without breaking the bank.

As the iPhone 16E's launch approaches, customers can expect to see various carrier promotions and discounts. The Verge will continue to update this post with the latest information on preorder options and deals.

In conclusion, the iPhone 16E represents a significant milestone in Apple's efforts to offer high-performance devices at affordable prices. With its impressive feature set and competitive pricing, the iPhone 16E is likely to be a popular choice among budget-conscious consumers.