Apple iPhone 16e Teardown

Apple has finally introduced a more affordable addition to its iPhone 16 series—the iPhone 16e. While many expected a new iPhone SE, Apple has taken a different approach, bringing a cost-effective alternative without sacrificing core performance.

At TechInsights, we’ve conducted a teardown analysis of the iPhone 16e, revealing exciting details about Apple's design choices, cost-cutting measures, and the Apple C1 cellular solution, marking a major shift in Apple’s 5G strategy.

Apple's Cost-Saving Strategy: Display & GPU

One of the biggest changes is in the display technology. TechInsights confirmed in February that BOE Display is supplying the iPhone 16e screen, replacing Samsung and LG for this model.

Additionally, while the iPhone 16e runs on Apple’s A18 processor, one of its GPU cores is disabled, resulting in a 4-core GPU instead of 5-core—a small but cost-effective modification.

The Camera: A Simpler Yet Capable Setup

Apple has also taken a cost-conscious approach to the rear camera. Unlike the dual-camera system on the iPhone 16, the iPhone 16e features a single 48MP Fusion camera, leading to an estimated $30 cost reduction in camera components.

The front camera, however, remains unchanged from the iPhone 16, keeping the 12MP sensor for high-quality selfies and FaceTime calls.

Apple’s Big Move: The Apple C1 Cellular Platform

One of the most exciting findings in our teardown is Apple's first in-house 5G modem—the Apple C1. This marks a major step towards Apple's independence from Qualcomm.

• Apple C1 integrates a 5G modem & FR1 RF transceiver
• Up to 25% DC power efficiency improvement
• Built on a 7nm process node (vs. Qualcomm SDR875 at 14nm)

By introducing the C1 now, Apple gives itself over two years to refine its 5G modem before its potential break from Qualcomm in 2027. While Qualcomm still holds a minor role in Apple’s RF design, the iPhone 16e signals a major shift in the industry.