iPhone 16e Off to a Strong Start, iPhone 16 Demand Picks Up: CIRP Report

Highlights

• iPhone 16e accounted for 7% of U.S. iPhone sales, outperforming the iPhone SE (2024).
• The iPhone 16 series made up 74% of total U.S. sales, up from 68% for the iPhone 15 lineup last year.
• Apple may continue the “e” series, possibly launching a 17e in 2026.

Caption – iPhone 16e reportedly made 7% of total US iPhone sales in the Q1 2025. (Image credit – Apple)

Looks like Apple’s new budget-friendly iPhone model, the iPhone 16e, is already making waves. According to data from Consumer Intelligence Research Partners (CIRP), the 16e made up 7% of total U.S. iPhone sales in the first quarter, doing better than the iPhone SE did in 2024.

In total, the five iPhone 16 models together accounted for 74% of U.S. iPhone sales, up from 68% for the iPhone 15 lineup during the same time last year.

iPhone 16e Off To A Great Start

Caption – Recent CIRP report data. (Image credit – CIRP)

CIRP didn’t name a specific SE model, but it’s pretty clear they’re referring to the third-generation iPhone SE released in 2022. That model stayed on shelves through 2024 and was popular mainly for its familiar design, featuring a Home button and a smaller screen.

Now, the iPhone 16e seems to be replacing that niche by offering something more modern at a similar price. It brings a 6.1-inch OLED display, the A18 chip, and a refreshed design, but skips on a few premium features like the Dynamic Island, MagSafe, ultra-wide camera, and faster wireless charging.

This makes it a solid pick for buyers who want a newer iPhone without breaking the bank—and without feeling like they’re settling for outdated tech.

iPhone 16 Lineup Gains Ground

Meanwhile, the base iPhone 16 also saw a bump, taking 20% of U.S. sales up from 14% for the iPhone 15 last year. The iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max made up 38% of sales, which is a bit lower than the 45% their iPhone 15 versions managed.

Older iPhones dropped to 26% of sales, down from 32% last year. That shift shows more people are choosing newer models, even if they aren’t going for the most expensive ones.

It’s still unclear if Apple will release a new “e” model every year or if it’ll follow the slower schedule we’ve seen with the SE. If a 17e arrives in 2026, Apple might keep the 16e around as a more affordable option.

As of now, it looks like the iPhone 16e is a smart move though. It helps Apple simplify its iPhone lineup while competing more directly with mid-range Android phones.

FAQs

Q1: How well is the iPhone 16e selling compared to previous budget models?

A: The iPhone 16e accounted for 7% of U.S. iPhone sales in the first quarter, outperforming the iPhone SE (2024) and offering a more modern design.

Q2: How much of Apple’s total U.S. iPhone sales come from the iPhone 16 lineup?

A: The iPhone 16 series made up 74% of total U.S. sales, a rise from 68% for the iPhone 15 lineup during the same period last year.

Q3: Will Apple continue releasing “e” models yearly?

A: It’s unclear, but a 17e in 2026 is possible, with the 16e remaining as a more affordable option, competing with mid-range Android phones.

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