To 16e or not 16e - That is the question...

[bjcheung77]

I'm looking to get more into the Apple Ecosystem, currently with a new Mac mini M4 as my main PC, and an older Mac Mini M2 as a family computer, this phone would be an upgrade from my old SE3 2022, since they've discontinued the SE and now in favor of 16e.  

Yes, the Apple 16e phone came out just a few days ago and on pre-order until the early part of March up to mid March.  The phone is at a good price point of $599USD.  Having said that, the features of the phone is lesser than the 16 (non pro), the main difference is the camera as it uses the same CPU/Ram and other configuration is very similar.

16e only has 1 camera lens, 16 has 2 cameras lenses and the 16 pro has 3 camera lenses. You can make a comparison on the Apple website if you need the extra details.  There are a few pre-paid cell MVNOs Mobile Virtual Network Operators available that will provide a discount on the phone and on the pre-paid plans on a cell network.

Here's an example from Slickdeals.net: Straighttalk.com has a deal for $365, $299 for the phone and $65 for a month plan, you can cancel the plan anytime, and in 2 months (60 days) your phone will be unlocked to be used on any carrier of your choice.  In brief, you're getting a discount on the phone, but need to wait 2 months for it to unlock.  People use it as an ipod music player or wifi device, ipad mini replacement, whatever may work in your scenario.  You're paying "half price" for this phone.

On the flip side, there are other options such as this example: 1 year service of unlimited calls/text and X gigs of data for $599.  So, it's like getting the phone for free, but using their post paid cell service plan.  Or, the other way of looking at it is, buying the phone for $599 and getting their cell service free, it's the same pricing either way you look at it!

Toms Hardware has a few examples of cheap post paid options: https://www.tomsguide.com/sales-events/i...e-for-free

[LevelUP]

I'm in the same boat, trying to decide which iPhone to buy, so I’d be like the blind leading the blind if I tried to give advice here.