The iPhone 16e, a recent addition to the 16 series, has sparked significant discussion within the tech community. Compared to the iPhone 14, 15, and 16 series, the iPhone 16e has lower specifications, leading to controversy and criticism regarding its value. During our teardown of the iPhone 16e, we identified opportunities for improvement, particularly in storage capacity from 128 to 512GB and the addition of MagSafe, all at an additional cost of just $46.
Upgrading Storage
Why Upgrade the iPhone 16e?
The iPhone 16e offers three storage options: 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB. The 128GB model is priced at $599, while the 512GB model costs $899, representing a $300 difference. REWA Tech has discovered a method to upgrade the iPhone 16e from 128GB to 512GB for just $48.
Tools & Parts Used
- High-temp tape
- PCB jig
- Hot air gun
- Spudger
- 512GB NAND chip (compatible with iPhone 16/16 Plus/16e)
- Mid-temp solder paste
- Soldering Rework Station
- Solder wick
- PCB cleaner
- Desoldering platform
- Low-temp solder paste
- MagSafe coil (trimmed from iPhone 15)
- Battery adhesive
- Roller tool
- Protective graphene layer
Step 1: Expanding the Storage
Prepare the Motherboard
- Protect the motherboard edges with high-temperature tape.
- Secure the logic board in a PCB jig.
Remove the Original NAND
- Use a hot air gun at 320°C to weaken the adhesive.
- Increase to 400°C and lift the 128GB NAND chip using a spudger.
Install the New NAND Chip
- Clean the motherboard pads with a soldering iron and wick.
- Apply mid-temp solder paste and use a stencil to form solder balls.
- Align and solder the new 512GB NAND chip at 380°C.
Step 2: Reassembling the Motherboard
Stack the Logic Board
- Heat the desoldering platform to 180°C and apply flux.
- Clean both middle-layer and signal board pads with PCB cleaner.
- Use low-temp solder for board stacking and reheat at 180°C.
Reinstall the Battery and Motherboard
- Apply new battery adhesive and use a roller tool to secure it.
- Reinstall the motherboard and connect the battery.
Step 3: Adding MagSafe Charging
Modify the Back Cover
- Heat the back cover at 110°C with airflow at 60 to loosen the adhesive.
- Gently lift the graphene-coated protective layer.
Install the MagSafe Coil
- Trim the excess part of a MagSafe coil from an iPhone 15.
- Align and adhere the replacement coil onto the iPhone 16e.
- Reattach the protective graphene layer.
Reassemble & Test
- Install the back cover securely.
- Connect the phone to a computer and reinstall iOS.
- Verify that MagSafe charging works.
- Check the new 512GB storage capacity.
Final Thoughts: Was It Worth It?
For just $46, we turned the iPhone 16e into a much more capable device with ample storage and wireless charging support. This upgrade proves that with the right tools and knowledge, budget smartphones can rival flagship models. Would you pay for this upgrade? Let us know!
