Apple has marked a before and after in its history with the official launch of the iPhone 16E. This new device not only brings with it the most advanced characteristics of the company, such as Apple Intelligence compatibility, but also puts an end and symbolizes the closure of two emblems of the company: the final farewell of the port Lightning and of the classic home button.
With this decision, Apple completely redefines its line of smartphones, betting on a totally renewed future and consistent with the latest technological trends.
How is the new 16e iPhone
The 16E iPhone reaches the market with a USB-C portas is normal in the middle of 2025, consolidating the transition that Apple began with the iPhone 15 in 2023. In this way, the company has completed in less than two years the change towards this standard of loading and transfer of data. From now on, all iPhone for sale on their official website, among which is the iPhone 16E and the iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 models, have USB-C. Although Apple will continue to sell reconditioned models with lightning and some accessories that still use this connector, its presence in the main range of products is the thing of the past.
This movement is not something we don't expect, but it does mark a before and after. The company had already renewed the iPads line eliminating lightning in favor of the USB-C. Now, with this last movement on the entrance iPhone, the iconic port that accompanied Apple devices for more than a decade is relegated to history. The universal adoption of the USB-C not only facilitates the compatibility between Apple devices, but also aligns with the strict European regulations that seek a common standard to reduce electronic waste and tear down the closed ecosystem of the Cupertino company.
The 16E iPhone marks a new era
But the 16E iPhone not only closes the Lightning port cycle. It also puts end to the era of the home buttona key piece in the history of Apple smartphones. Introduced in 2007 with the first iPhone, this button was for years a distinctive element, especially when incorporating touch ID in the iPhone 5s in 2013. However, the arrival of the iPhone X in 2017 marked the beginning of its disappearance, with the incorporation of Face ID and new full screen designs. Now, with the full iPhone 16E panel, Tim Cook's boys put an end to this old technology.
The 16E iPhone incorporates Face IDconsolidating this facial recognition system such as the standard to unlock the device and access Apple Pay and other apps. Although Touch ID is still present in some iPad and Macbook models, it is no longer part of the iPhone. This makes it clear that Apple is committed to a cleaner and more uniform design in its smartphones, with screens that make the most of the front of the device.
With these changes, the 16E iPhone becomes a key model within the evolution of Apple. It represents the definitive closure of two iconic elements and the beginning of a new stage where design, compatibility and technology are joined to offer a more coherent and advanced experience. The future of the iPhone is more uniform than ever, and the 16E iPhone is proof of this.
