Budget iPhone 16e Lacks This Key Location-Finding Feature
Apple's latest budget-friendly iPhone 16e won't support Precision Finding features, because the device lacks Ultra Wideband (UWB) technology found in other iPhone 16 models.
The omission of UWB technology means iPhone 16e users won't be able to take advantage of precise location tracking features that have become increasingly useful in Apple devices. This includes the inability to use Precision Finding with AirPods Pro 2, locate other iPhone users with pinpoint accuracy, or enjoy quick pairing with a HomePod mini.
Apple's decision to exclude UWB is likely to be part of a broader strategy to differentiate the iPhone 16e from its premium peers while keeping costs down.
The iPhone 16e's feature reductions extend beyond UWB, as the device also lacks MagSafe charging capabilities and Thread radio support, the relatively new smart home connectivity standard. It's worth keeping these omissions in mind if you are weighing up the budget model as an alternative the rest of the iPhone 16 lineup.
iPhone 16e pre-orders open this Friday at 5 a.m. Pacific Time in nearly 60 countries, and the device launches on Friday, February 28.
Popular Stories
Update 10:04 a.m.: iOS 27 is rolling out now, though it may take a bit for all users to see it, so keep checking!
Apple is about to release iOS 27, which will finally deliver more advanced Siri AI capabilities as well as a variety of other refinements, improvements, and new features to iPhones. It's Apple's biggest software update of the year, and Apple announced at Wednesday's iPhone event...
Update — 10 a.m. Pacific Time: Apple has released iOS 27.
During its iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone Duo event last week, Apple announced that iOS 27 will be released widely on Monday, September 14.
iOS 27 should be available around 10 a.m. Pacific Time / 1 p.m. Eastern Time today via the Settings app, under General → Software Update.
Below, we have highlighted eight new features and...
Apple today announced a new subscription initiative that turns paid iCloud+ subscriptions into a broader services bundle in more than 100 countries.
In select countries, Apple says every paid iCloud+ plan, including the cheapest 50GB tier, now includes Apple TV and Apple Arcade "at no additional cost," while family sharing extends the storage, TV and Arcade access to up to five people....
