The first Geekbench score, released for the new iPhone 16e, is now bringing attention to the performance aspect of Apple’s decision to making do with a binned version of the A18 chip that has fewer GPU cores than the standard iPhone 16 model.
MySmartPrice has seen Geekbench 6 Metal benchmark results for the iPhone 16e, which managed to get 24,188 points in the graphics test, about 15% lower than the more premium iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus performance. This performance deficit is likely due to Apple’s using a binned A18 chip. Chip binning is a common industry practice whereby chips that are defective or non-functional in certain aspects are sold to the lower-tier products. This maximizes yield and minimizes waste for manufacturers by allowing them to sell at various price points.
So, the iPhone 16e with its 4-core GPU configuration in its A18 chip differs from the standard iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus with their 5-core GPU. However, as per the Geekbench test result, the six-core CPU count remains unaffected.
With a given price of $599, the iPhone 16e is expected to perform well overall despite the performance drop of GPOs. The Geekbench tests also corroborate earlier discoveries that suggest an 8GB RAM in the iPhone 16e, besides qualifying for Apple’s minimum shrewdness requirement. The tested device was running iOS 18.3.1.
Of course, further benchmark results and real-world testing will be necessary to fully assess the impact of the lower number of GPU cores on everyday tasks and gaming performance. Apple will begin accepting pre-orders for the iPhone 16e at 5 AM Pacific Time today, and the device will launch in 59 countries and regions on Friday, February 28.
