The iPhone 16e has become the most affordable model in Apple’s family of phones, taking over from the older SE models. The shiny device comes with a high-quality OLED display, a next-generation A18 chip with support for Apple Intelligence, a more than impressive camera, and enviable battery life. However, the lack of MagSafe has been one of the strongest criticisms it has received.
Apple didn’t explain why the iPhone 16e doesn’t support MagSafe chargers or accessories. It’s logical to think that the decision is based, at least within the company’s offices, on a cost issue . After all, this type of device requires certain cuts and compromises to try to strike a balance between price and features.
However, a report from Macwelt (via MacWorld ) suggested an alternative that, at least initially, seemed plausible. The publication indicated that, based on comments from its sources in the mobile accessory industry, Apple may have done away with MagSafe on the iPhone 16e to prevent its magnetic system from interfering with the new C1 modem .
This component is responsible for 5G connectivity and is the first designed by the Californian firm to reach its smartphones. Apple hasn’t provided many details about the C1 modem, highlighting only that it’s the most energy-efficient modem ever installed in an iPhone. It also says it can offer fast and reliable connectivity. And since its development has been marked by countless technical setbacks , what Macwelt reported didn’t seem far-fetched. But Apple has categorically denied it .
The C1 modem didn’t force Apple to ditch MagSafe on the iPhone 16e.
Apple contacted MacWorld to mention that the absence of MagSafe had nothing to do with the adoption of the C1 modem . So the hypothesis that the company avoided using the magnetic docking system in the iPhone 16e to avoid any interference with the new component must be ruled out.
As you can imagine, those in Cupertino avoided going into the matter in depth. While the firm denied any kind of “conflict” between its cellular chip and MagSafe, it offered no explanation for the latter’s absence in the iPhone 16e. As we indicated at the beginning, the theory that seems most likely is savings in development and manufacturing costs. However, this has not been confirmed either.
The iPhone 16e is available in versions with 128, 256, or 512 GB of storage. In addition to the lack of MagSafe, the device has received criticism for its significantly higher price than the older SE series . The cheapest model now costs €709, while the most expensive rises to €1,089.
