Is it worth going for the new iPhone 16e now? That was the question that crossed my mind when I saw the first price lists arrive in Chile . As a journalist and technology analyst, it's not enough for me to know what's "the latest" or "the prettiest."
I prefer to dig deeper: understand what it really offers, what price makes sense to pay in our market , and whether it's worth buying now or waiting.
Today I'm sharing a detailed analysis—without hype or empty promises—of the iPhone 16e , its positioning in Chile , and where to get the best real price.
Are you interested? Join me!
iPhone 16e : What is Apple really proposing?
Before we talk about pricing, it's worth understanding what exactly the iPhone 16e is.
Apple introduced this variant as a more affordable version of its 16 line, seeking to capture users who want to enter the iOS ecosystem without paying the price of the Pro or Ultra models.
However, it's not a "cheap iPhone" as such: it still offers top-notch technology , but with some strategic concessions.
Main features:
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Display : 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED, 120Hz adaptive refresh rate.
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Processor : Apple A17 Fusion, an evolution of the A17 Pro, optimized for efficiency and AI tasks.
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Main camera : 48 MP sensor with Photonic Engine and Deep Fusion.
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Battery : Up to 20 hours of video playback.
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Improved Face ID and Wi-Fi 7 connectivity.
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Operating system : iOS 18, with new features focused on artificial intelligence.
In other words, it's a next-generation iPhone , not a limited reissue like other SE models have been in the past.
The official price of the iPhone 16e in Chile
Apple does not manufacture locally or assemble in the region, so all iPhones arriving in Chile are imported , with the corresponding tax burdens.
Official price in Chile (at Apple Premium Resellers and official stores):
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iPhone 16e 128 GB : Approximately $929,990 CLP.
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iPhone 16e 256 GB : Around $1,049,990 CLP.
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iPhone 16e 512 GB : Up to $1,229,990 CLP .
These prices are the recommended ones, but —as always happens— There are nuances and opportunities for those seeking a better cost-benefit ratio.
Where can I find the best price for the iPhone 16e in Chile?
After analyzing the main physical stores, online stores, and import alternatives, I found the following standout options:
1. Official stores (MacOnline, Reifstore, Falabella, Paris)
Advantages:
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Official Apple Chile warranty (12 months).
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Possibility of financing in interest-free installments.
Disadvantages:
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Higher price .
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Less room for immediate discounts.
2. Alternative retailers (Mercado Libre, Linio, Ripley.com)
Advantages:
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Flash sales and discounts for specific payment methods.
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Some Premium sellers offer a receipt and a 12-month warranty.
Disadvantages:
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Risk of versions from other markets (USA or China) that may have minor incompatibilities.
3. Parallel importers
Advantages:
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More competitive price : I've seen new iPhone 16e starting at CLP $799,990 from trusted importers.
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Early access to limited stock.
Disadvantages:
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Limited warranty or managed directly with the seller.
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Possible delivery delays.
Quick comparison: How much could you save?
|
Purchase channel |
Estimated price |
Difference from official |
|
Official Apple Resellers |
$929,990 |
- |
|
Online retailers |
From $899,990 |
-3% to -4% |
|
Reliable importers |
From $799,990 |
-13% |
If you are willing to manage your own collateral, Reliable Import offers the best price .
If you prefer peace of mind and official technical support, buying from premium stores is still the best option.
How does the iPhone 16e compare to its direct competition?
If we analyze in terms of price and features, the iPhone 16e competes mainly against:
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Samsung Galaxy S24 : More open in customization, but not as optimized in ecosystem.
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Google Pixel 9 : Cutting-edge computational photography, although less officially available in Chile.
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OnePlus 12 : Huge battery and fast charging, but without the same long-term support.
Strengths of the iPhone 16e :
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Fluid and durable iOS ecosystem.
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Premium build quality.
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Updates guaranteed for 5 years.
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Artificial intelligence integrated and optimized for real-world tasks (not just marketing).
Weaknesses of the iPhone 16e :
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High entry price compared to some Android equivalents.
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No full USB-C port (although it already offers higher speeds than previous generations).
Does the iPhone 16e align with current demands?
Absolutely yes.
The iPhone 16e reflects key trends for 2025:
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Greater focus on applied AI (not just voice assistants, but also photography features, predictive typing, energy optimization).
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Sustainability : Apple reinforces its environmental commitments with plastic-free packaging, recycled materials, and energy efficiency.
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Computational photography : The leap in image quality, especially in low-light conditions, remains one of the strongest differentials.
In the Chilean market, where mobile photography and efficiency are paramount, the 16e has great appeal.
Is the iPhone 16e worth buying in Chile?
From an objective perspective, the iPhone 16e is a smart purchase for users looking for power, quality, and guaranteed upgradeability without reaching the price of a 16 Pro or 16 Ultra.
If you can get a deal around CLP $800,000 , you'll be getting a great deal.
That said, if price is your top priority and you're open to Android, there are other options that may be more convenient in terms of raw hardware.
What do you think?
Would you be willing to upgrade to the iPhone 16e ? Would you wait for a possible price drop, or would you rather look for a deal now?
Let me know what you think in the comments . I'd love to hear what your next mobile lens is!
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