The iPhone 16th gen reflects a change in strategy for the Apple brand. This model follows on from the iPhone SE series, which ultimately did not see a fourth generation after the 2016, 2020, and 2022 models. Launched at 719 euros, it costs 190 euros more than its predecessor, and this new pricing positioning has caused a lot of discussion. Today, it represents the "affordable" option in Apple's range, and the term can make people jump, because its price doesn't really make it an affordable option in the smartphone world. However, Apple seems to have made the right choice, if we are to believe the figures from IDC reported by Bloomberg.
Almost an iPhone 16 for 250 euros less
The new iPhone 16e posted sales 60% higher than those of the iPhone SE 3 during its first three days on the market. A promising success, even if it should be remembered that the last iPhone SE was not a resounding success. This promising start, however, tends to demonstrate that the Cupertino company made the right choice, while its high price could have led to fears of a timid start.
Several elements can explain this early success, starting with the modernized design of the iPhone 16th. This model corresponds much more to the expectations of the public in 2025, offering a significant step forward for iPhone SE owners. We can also think that this confirms the public's interest in large screens (over 6 inches) and the lack of competitiveness compact devices.
The iPhone 16e also boasts performance close to that of the iPhone 16 thanks to the A18 chip (6 cores). It also allows access to Apple Intelligence in certain markets and very soon in France, making it a future-oriented model. The 48-megapixel photo sensor has also seen improvements, arguments that have won over consumers.
Nevertheless, the key argument remains its lower price than that of the iPhone 16 range, which is struggling to assert itself. In France, the iPhone 16 is €250 less, and this price allows you to get your hands on a very recent model without spending nearly €1,000. For Apple, which remains a premium brand, the iPhone 16 represents an "accessible" entry point into its ecosystem, but it shouldn't threaten the Pro models. As evidenced by the ranking of the best-selling models, the highest-end and most expensive iPhones remain very popular.
The iPhone 16th won't save Apple in China
The new iPhone should now confirm the arrival of the iPhone 17 series and the highly anticipated iPhone 17 Air. The IDC report, however, highlights that the strong start of the iPhone 16th will not be enough to reverse the trend in the Chinese market, a very important country for Apple. In China, competition from Android will remain very strong, and local manufacturers (Huawei, Xiaomi, Oppo, Honor, vivo, etc.) will benefit from subsidies to counter the American brand. In a region where new features are appreciated, the technical limitations of Apple's model (a single camera, limited base storage) and the lack of artificial intelligence functions appear to be significant obstacles.
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