Hong Kong version of iPhone 16e reintroduces eSIM! No physical SIM card required, switching phone cards is more convenient | The cheapest entry-level phone to play AI
With the launch of the iPhone 16e in Hong Kong, Apple has finally reintroduced eSIM functionality to the local market, bringing users a more flexible communication experience. Since the iPhone 14 series, Hong Kong versions of iPhones have lacked eSIM support, but this time the iPhone 16e not only supports nano-SIM + eSIM, but also dual eSIM configurations, making it easier for users to switch SIM cards between different telecom networks. The new phone is also more affordable, allowing users to experience AI at an entry-level price.
Official authorized distributor BBK.com is offering priority access to over 50 eSIM models, including the LuckySIM Hong Kong/Roaming Data SIM with a Hong Kong number, and the Lucky2 Data-only SIM/Travel SIM. Please refer to the order form for pricing. https://bit.ly/4cTV8VH
Benefits and Market Prospects of eSIM
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No physical SIM card required, making switching easier.
eSIM is a digital SIM card built into a mobile phone. Users can activate it directly through a QR code or information provided by the telecom operator without having to buy or insert a physical SIM card. It is especially suitable for users who travel abroad frequently. - Dual eSIM support, suitable for users with multiple phone cards <br />Previously, the dual SIM configuration of iPhones in the Hong Kong market only supported nano-SIM + eSIM. This time, the iPhone 16e can be equipped with dual eSIM, which is a great benefit for users who need to manage personal and business phone numbers and travel cards at the same time.
- Future Development Trends: Wider Telecom Support <br />More and more telecom operators worldwide are beginning to support eSIM, and some countries have even launched dedicated eSIM tariff plans, eliminating the need for traditional SIM cards. With technological advancements, eSIM will become a standard feature of smartphones in the future.
iPhone 16e Features and Specifications Explained
6.1-inch OLED notch screen + action buttons
The iPhone 16e features a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with a resolution of 2532 x 1179 and supports a 60Hz refresh rate. Unlike the iPhone 16, the 16e does not have the "Dynamic Island" notch, instead retaining the Face ID notch design from the iPhone 14. Furthermore, the screen is covered with ceramic crystal glass, providing enhanced scratch and drop resistance. The body has an IP68 dust and water resistance rating, further improving its durability.
A18 chip + proprietary 5G modem
The iPhone 16e, like the iPhone 16, is equipped with the A18 chip, but the GPU configuration differs slightly. The iPhone 16e features a 6-core CPU and a 4-core GPU, supports ray tracing technology, and includes a 16-core NPU to enhance AI computing performance. Furthermore, this phone is the first to use Apple's own C1 5G modem, which Apple claims provides a faster and more stable 5G connection experience.
Apple AI: Experience smart features even on affordable models
The iPhone 16e supports Apple Intelligence, which offers AI-powered text proofreading, summarizing, automatic call recording and transcription, and image generation. Additionally, Siri can integrate with ChatGPT for smarter interactions. To ensure smooth AI processing, the iPhone 16e features 8GB of RAM for a smoother user experience.
48MP single lens, supports 2x lossless zoom
To differentiate its market positioning, the iPhone 16e, like the iPhone SE series, features only a single main camera, but it boasts a 48-megapixel sensor and supports 2x lossless zoom. The camera supports Night mode, Smart HDR 5, and 4K 60fps video recording in Dolby Atmos format, delivering everyday shooting performance comparable to the iPhone 16.
The Hong Kong version of the iPhone 16e supports dual eSIM + nano-SIM.
The Hong Kong version of the iPhone 16e, model A3409, supports dual SIM dual standby, allowing users to choose between a nano-SIM + eSIM, or use two eSIMs directly. This is a very practical upgrade for users with business needs or who frequently travel abroad.
The Hong Kong version of the iPhone 16e has improved battery life.
The iPhone 16e boasts significantly improved battery life , offering 6 hours more of daily use than the iPhone 11 and 12 hours more than the iPhone SE. This is the longest battery life ever recorded for an iPhone of this size. The Apple chip, combined with the first Apple-designed modem system, C1, delivers energy efficiency, allowing the iPhone 16e to provide up to 26 hours of video playback.
iPhone 16 Pro vs. iPhone 16 vs. iPhone 16e: Specifications and Price Comparison
| model | iPhone 16 Pro | iPhone 16 | iPhone 16e |
|---|---|---|---|
| screen | 6.1-inch OLED (ProMotion, 120Hz) | 6.1-inch OLED | 6.1-inch OLED |
| Resolution | 2556 × 1179 | 2566 × 1179 | 2532 × 1179 |
| Update rate | 120Hz | 60Hz | 60Hz |
| processor | A18 Pro | A18 | A18 |
| memory | 8GB / 12GB | 8GB | 8GB |
| Storage capacity | 128GB / 256GB / 512GB / 1TB | 128GB / 256GB / 512GB | 128GB / 256GB / 512GB |
| Apple Intelligence | support | support | support |
| size | 146.6 × 70.6 × 8.3mm | 147.6 × 71.6 × 7.8mm | 146.7 × 71.5 × 7.8mm |
| weight | 188g | 170g | 167g |
| Price | Starting from $8,999 | Starting from $6,898 | Starting from $5,099 |
iPhone 16e pricing and release date
| capacity | Price |
| 128GB | $5,099 |
| 256GB | $5,899 |
| 512GB | $7,599 |
Booking date: February 21st
Official release date: February 28th
Overall, the iPhone 16e is an entry-level yet feature-rich iPhone, suitable for consumers who want to experience Apple Intelligence and high-speed 5G networks. Meanwhile, the Hong Kong version supports dual eSIMs, offering users greater flexibility, a major highlight for those who frequently switch telecom networks or need multiple phone numbers.
eSIM FAQs
Q: How can I check if my phone supports eSIM?
A: The following are the methods for checking iPhone, Samsung, and Google phones:
- iPhone : First, go to "Settings > General > About > Carrier Lock" to check for SIM card restrictions. If there are no restrictions, then go to "Settings > Mobile > Add eSIM" and start setting up eSIM by scanning the QR code.
- Samsung : Go to "Settings > Connectivity > SIM Management" and check if there is an "Add eSIM" option. If this option is present, it means eSIM is supported.
- Google : Go to "Settings > Internet & network", tap the "SIM card" option. If you see "Should I switch to download SIM?" and the option prompts you to authorize the camera to scan a QR code after tapping it, then the device supports eSIM.
Q: Is there a difference between eSIM signals and regular SIM cards?
A: The signal performance of an eSIM is actually no different from that of a regular SIM card. It mainly depends on the signal source in your area, just like judging whether a regular SIM card signal is stable.
Q: What eSIM recommendations are there for short-term travel?
A: Prices and details for over 40 products can be found through the following two links; you can order from us at either of them:
[1] Google Forms order form: https://forms.gle/gcNW5kc4zqMbw9q8A
PayMe / Bank Transfer / Faster Payment System / Alipay
Table [5a] Row 4: $220 | 365-day 25GB data plan for China, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and Australia (after exceeding 25GB, the speed will be reduced to 512kbps unlimited internet access)
[2] Order from our new online store: http://1worldsim.com/products
Credit card (price including transaction fees)
Other articles: Lucky SIM - Number Portability and Number Retention
Many people still keep their Hong Kong phone numbers, and the "$138 3-year" plan is the top choice for number portability! Besides free SMS in Hong Kong and overseas, it also includes 15GB of Hong Kong data, all at the same price. The other 13 portability plans offer even greater increases in Hong Kong data!
All data transfer plans and roaming data for 17 countries can be upgraded/renewed later. Whether you are in Hong Kong or overseas, you can purchase more data as needed and never have to worry about running out of data.
Lucky SIM SIM cards are compatible with various phone models, including physical cards and eSIM-enabled phones. Whether you are in Hong Kong or overseas, you can apply for a transfer using the official authorization form below, and an officially authorized agent will contact you.
Google Form application form: https://forms.gle/tY7vCdDgRFTYZd616 (Physical SIM card or eSIM optional)
Article details: https://stepstepinfo.com/?p=2694
Official authorized distributor BBK.com is offering priority sales of all LuckySIM and Lucky2 eSIM models. Please refer to the order form for pricing: https://bit.ly/4cTV8VH
Lucky2 13 countries/regions 365 days 10GB Unlimited Data Card
This annual data plan offers 365 days of roaming data service, with the first 10GB being high-speed data. After that, you can continue to use unlimited data at a reduced speed of 512kbps for browsing news, watching videos (low definition), or contacting friends and family via WhatsApp. A best-selling option, this is a rare affordable annual data plan on the market! Real-name registration is not required in Taiwan.
Network Provider:
Unicom China
Macau CTM
Taiwan Mobile
Japan SoftBank/KDDI
South Korean KT/SKT
Singapore Telecom
Maxis Malaysia
Telkmosel Indonesia
Vietnam Mobifone
Thailand AIS
Globe Philippines
Optus Australia
New Zealand TNZ
Lucky2 Travel SIM Card: 365 Days, 46 Countries/Regions, 10GB + 5GB Hong Kong
This annual data plan offers 365 days of roaming data service, with the first 10GB being high-speed data. After that, you can continue with unlimited data at a reduced speed of 384kbps for browsing news, watching videos (low definition), or contacting friends and family via WhatsApp. It also includes 5GB of Hong Kong data – a rare find for such an affordable annual plan! Real-name registration is required only in Hong Kong and Taiwan; no registration is required for other regions.
46 countries/regions include:
China, Taiwan, Macau, Japan, South Korea, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Kazakhstan, Israel, Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Greece, Italy, Montenegro, Serbia, Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Ireland, Netherlands, Switzerland, United Kingdom, Denmark, Estonia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden, Nigeria, South Africa, Canada, United States, Australia, New Zealand
Lucky2 365-day 30GB Unlimited Data Card for China, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and Macau
The best-selling model, a rare find in the market for affordable Japanese annual data plans! First 30GB of high-speed 5G/4G, then unlimited internet at 512K speed, plus an additional 5GB of Hong Kong data.
In Hong Kong and Taiwan, real-name registration is required, but only one registration is needed for use in these two places. Real-name registration is not required in China, Macau, Japan, or South Korea.
Network Provider:
China Unicom
Taiwan CHT/ Taiwan mobile
Macau CTM
JapanSoftbank/KDDI
South Korean KT/SKT
Official authorized distributor BBK.com is offering priority sales of all LuckySIM and Lucky2 eSIM models. Please refer to the order form for pricing: https://bit.ly/4cTV8VH