Camilla Jessen
Despite skepticism over its dated design and modest specs, Apple’s iPhone 16e is proving more popular than expected.
When Apple introduced the iPhone 16e, reactions were mixed.
A single rear camera, a basic display, and a throwback design raised eyebrows — especially given its relatively high price tag.
But according to new data from Counterpoint Research, the device is now outperforming even the iPhone 15 in Europe, landing among the top 10 best-selling smartphones in the region for March 2025.
Giga reports that the iPhone 16e ranked ninth in Europe’s smartphone sales last month, just behind its more advanced siblings — the iPhone 16, 16 Pro, and 16 Pro Max — but notably ahead of the iPhone 15, a model with superior hardware on paper.
A Modest iPhone That Hit the Mark
The iPhone 16e’s success is surprising given its stripped-down specs. It lacks many of the high-end features of the iPhone 15, such as the upgraded camera system and brighter OLED display.
But according to Counterpoint, the model’s appeal lies elsewhere.
“The iPhone 16e isn’t for everyone,” analysts said. “But it offers fast performance, long battery life, and full access to the Apple ecosystem — and that’s enough to attract a certain group of buyers.”
This audience likely includes casual users, first-time iPhone owners, or those prioritizing battery life and software longevity over premium hardware.
Slow Start, Strong Momentum
Initially, the iPhone 16e got off to a slower start than previous entry-tier models like the iPhone SE (2020 and 2022).
With inflation still squeezing household budgets across Europe, its launch price raised concerns — especially when more feature-rich models like the iPhone 15 or base iPhone 16 were available at comparable prices through deals and carriers.
But as the dust settled, it became clear that Apple’s brand loyalty remained as resilient as ever.
Even a device labeled “controversial” by critics found a place among Europe’s most popular smartphones.