iPhone Sales Insights: 16e Surges While 16 Pro Declines

Recent analyses of Apple's iPhone sales reveal a notable trend in the market dynamics of its latest models. The iPhone 16e, positioned as the company's entry-level offering, has demonstrated strong sales performance, achieving a significant market share despite its relatively high price point. This contrasts sharply with the performance of the Pro models, which appear to be struggling in comparison.

According to data released by CIRP, the iPhone 16e has already captured 7% of total iPhone sales in the United States within its first quarter of availability, which began in February. This figure is particularly impressive given that the device is priced at $600 plus tax, exceeding the cost of its predecessor, the SE 3. The 16e's sales performance indicates that it has outpaced the SE 3, which was only able to achieve similar market penetration in the previous year.

Overall, the iPhone 16 lineup, which includes the 16e, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max, and the standard 16 model, now accounts for 74% of all iPhone sales in the U.S. market. This represents an increase from the previous year's 68% share held by the iPhone 15 series during the same period. The standard iPhone 16 has also seen increased popularity, making up 20% of sales, up from 14% for the iPhone 15.

However, the situation for Apple's Pro models is less favorable. The iPhone 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max combined now represent only 38% of total iPhone sales, a decline from the 45% share held by the iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max in the prior year. The iPhone 16 Pro, in particular, has seen its share drop to just 17% of total sales. This decline is noteworthy given that last year, these models benefited from being the sole options compatible with Apple's advanced features, including Apple Intelligence.

Despite these challenges, a positive trend for Apple is the reduced sales of legacy devices. Only 26% of iPhone sales now consist of models that have been on the market for more than a year. This shift can be attributed to Apple's decision to streamline its offerings by discontinuing models such as the iPhone 14, 14 Plus, and SE 3 from its own sales channels. Nonetheless, these older models are still available through various retail outlets.