Apple has finally confirmed the launch of the much-anticipated iPhone 16e, ending months of speculation.

       The new model, which breaks from the tradition by not adopting the 'SE' moniker, is set to hit the shelves next week with a surprisingly affordable price tag of just ￡599 – a full ￡200 less than its counterparts.

       Despite its lower price point, the iPhone 16e boasts an all-screen design, eschewing the bezels of the original SE for a sleeker look and incorporating Face ID technology over the traditional Touch ID. It also comes equipped with Apple's Ceramic Shield, a waterproof build, and the same A18 processor found in the premium iPhone 16 series.

       Customers will enjoy cutting-edge features such as enhanced Siri capabilities, ChatGPT integration, automatic image editing, and advanced email composition tools.

       Yet, despite these impressive specs, Apple fans have taken to the internet to voice their disappointment, criticising the tech giant for what they perceive as a 'stagnation in innovation'.

       READ MORE: Claim a free Samsung smartwatch and earbuds in this excellent Galaxy deal [DEALS]

       READ MORE:

       Five-second tip could protect your phone if it's ever stolen [ADVICE]

       I tried Huawei’s surprisingly affordable earbuds that challenge Bose and Shokz [REVIEW]

       Heat pump warning as tech boss admits they'll never be cheaper than gas boilers [TECH]

       Following the release of a promotional video by Apple CEO Tim Cook, social media users were quick to point out the perceived similarities with previous models.

       One user responded to Cook's announcement with scepticism: "Cool doesn't seem to have anything much different than the last few years minus their own modem chip." Another echoed this sentiment, remarking: "iPhones have been the same since the iPhone 13."

       A third user expressed frustration, saying: "So it's just a less powerful iPhone? That wasn't worth announcing like this. You could have just made a post and saved us all some time and heartbreak."

       Meanwhile, another X user admitted: "I'm disappointed." One more asked: "What happened to the innovative company we all loved so much?" While someone else said: "Microsoft dropped quantum computing an hour ago and you guys are rebranding the iPhone."

       More criticism came from a user who said: "It's happening, Apple are truly falling off."

       Apple has been contacted for comment.

       Notably, the iPhone 16e boasts a single-lens 48MP Fusion camera capable of zooming, applying Portrait modes, and taking quality night-time photos. Apple also touts the phone’s 4K video recording with Dolby Vision at 60 fps.

       Other perks include an Action button for swift access to favourite features, along with Apple's life-saving SOS text messaging and Crash Detection technology.

       The iPhone 16e will goes on sale next week and start from ￡599 for the 128GB version.