iPhone 16e takes the spotlight as Apple sees strong demand for iPhone 16 Series

Apple’s newest iPhone lineup is off to a strong start—especially the budget-friendly iPhone 16e. According to the latest data from Consumer Intelligence Research Partners (CIRP), the iPhone 16e is making waves with U.S. consumers, even outselling the 2022 iPhone SE in its early days.

A Stronger Launch Than iPhone 15 Series

CIRP reports that a whopping 74% of all iPhones sold in Q1 2024 were from the iPhone 16 series, a noticeable jump from the 68% share the iPhone 15 series held during the same period last year. This uptick suggests Apple’s latest models are striking the right chord with buyers.

iPhone 16e: The Star of the Show

What’s particularly impressive is how well the iPhone 16e—Apple’s more affordable offering—has performed. Despite not being a flagship model, it accounted for 7% of total iPhone sales in the U.S. That’s a solid showing for a mid-tier device.

Priced at $600, the iPhone 16e is winning over buyers with a compelling mix of value and features. It’s powered by the latest A18 chip, boasts a 6.1-inch OLED display, and comes with integrated Apple Intelligence—features usually reserved for higher-end models. And while it lacks extras like Dynamic Island, MagSafe, and dual cameras, the iPhone 16e still delivers premium performance at a more accessible price point.

Flagships Fall Short, But 16e Lifts the Series

While the more expensive iPhone 16 models haven’t had the same impact, the 16e’s strong sales have helped boost the entire lineup. Apple may not have hit a home run with all its models, but the 16e is clearly doing the heavy lifting.

As we move deeper into 2024, it will be interesting to see if the iPhone 16e continues to anchor the series' success. For now, it stands as a strong contender in the crowded smartphone market—proof that consumers still crave value-packed devices at sensible prices.