The new iPhone 16e lacks MagSafe, and Apple attributed this decision to its target audience’s preference for traditional charging methods over inductive charging. Anonymously sourced Apple representatives claimed that most prospective 16e users typically charge their phones with cables, suggesting this feature was unnecessary. However, critics perceive this as a cost-cutting measure, as the device is not positioned as a budget option. The rationale has been described as presumptuous, with concerns over Apple’s approach of determining user needs, giving an impression of “Apple knows what’s best for you.”
The newly launched iPhone 16e lacks MagSafe, and Apple has clarified that this decision is unrelated to its first in-house modem. So, why did this occur?
According to Apple, the choice to exclude MagSafe from the iPhone 16e was made because “the majority of users in the 16e’s target demographic primarily charge their devices with a cable.” This information reportedly comes from unnamed “Apple representatives” who spoke with Daring Fireball’s John Gruber.
These representatives further assert that potential buyers of the iPhone 16e “generally do not utilize inductive charging at all.” It remains unclear how Apple arrived at this conclusion, and who they believe this demographic consists of is also vague.
What is evident is that this decision serves as a cost-cutting strategy for a phone that isn’t even inexpensive, clearly aimed at boosting Apple’s profit margins. Now, Apple is attempting to frame this as a benefit, suggesting “don’t worry, you don’t need it, as you weren’t going to use it anyway.” This comes off as quite presumptuous and reminiscent of a “Big Brother” mentality, indicating an “Apple knows what’s best for you” attitude.
Apple iPhone 16e
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