Apple’s iPhone 16e has achieved an impressive launch, outperforming the 2022 iPhone SE 3’s debut quarter sales. According to Consumer Intelligence Research Partners (CIRP), the iPhone 16e accounted for 7% of all U.S. iPhone sales during its first quarter, giving Apple a much-needed boost in the competitive mid-range smartphone segment.
The broader iPhone 16 lineup also performed well, making up 74% of all iPhone sales in the U.S., compared to 68% for the iPhone 15 series during the same period in 2024.
Modern Features at a Lower Price
Unlike the older iPhone SE models that leaned heavily on nostalgia—keeping a Home button and compact size—the iPhone 16e offers a fresh, modern design. It features a 6.1-inch OLED display and runs on the powerful A18 chip. However, it cuts some premium features like Dynamic Island, MagSafe support, and an ultra-wide camera to maintain an affordable price point.
This smart balance appears to have helped the iPhone 16e appeal to buyers who wanted up-to-date technology without paying flagship prices. At the same time, sales of older iPhones dropped, showing a shift away from legacy models.
What This Means for Apple
The success of the iPhone 16e highlights Apple’s growing strength in the mid-tier smartphone market, an area long dominated by Android manufacturers. By modernizing its entry-level offerings, Apple has effectively streamlined its lineup and attracted a wider audience.
It’s still unclear whether Apple will continue updating the “e” model annually or adopt a slower refresh cycle similar to the iPhone SE. However, early signs suggest that the iPhone 16e could set the stage for a new direction in Apple’s strategy.
