Apple has introduced its new iPhone 16e model, which replaces the iPhone SE and iPhone 14, becoming part of the more affordable iPhone series. The company has designed this model specifically for emerging markets like India.
India plays a crucial role in iPhone sales. In 2024, 12 million iPhones were sold in the country, and this number is expected to exceed 15 million in 2025. However, the best-selling models in India are not the iPhone SE or iPhone 14, but rather the iPhone 13 and iPhone 15.
The iPhone 16e is priced starting at ₹59,900 (~$689). For comparison, the iPhone 15 costs approximately $804, while the iPhone 16 is priced at $919. The decreasing prices of older models and the availability of financing options may impact the success of the new model.
With the iPhone 16e, Apple aims to attract younger users and those interested in previous-generation iPhones in India. However, since mobile carriers in India do not offer subsidies on phones, the new model might still be considered expensive for some customers. Additionally, the majority of phone sales in India occur during the festive season. Analysts believe that even if there are discounts for the iPhone 16e during that period, similar discounts may also be applied to older models, which could influence customers' purchasing decisions.
