iPhone 16e Sales Struggle as Apple Prepares New Entry-Level Models
Apple’s entry-level strategy appears to be facing a challenge once again. According to new reports from Asia, the iPhone 16e is performing poorly in the market—echoing the weak demand previously seen with the iPhone Air. Despite competitive pricing and strong core hardware, the model has not resonated with buyers as expected.
But even with these struggles, Apple is not stepping back. Instead, the company is actively preparing successors in hopes of turning the situation around.
A Closer Look: Why the iPhone 16e Is Falling Behind
A reliable Weibo leaker, “Fixed Focus Digital,” reports that the iPhone 16e’s sales have been disappointing since launch. Apple positioned it as a budget-friendly option, offering modern specs at a lower price point.
Key highlights included:
A18 chip
OLED display
C1 modem
48MP camera
$599 starting price
Yet despite the value proposition, retail performance has been lukewarm. Market observers believe the 16e struggles because consumers are increasingly willing to pay slightly more for mid-tier models with better design and feature sets.
Even when certain models underperform, many users still shift between iPhones within the same product cycle—and that’s where Smart Transfer, a third-party file sharing app, becomes incredibly useful.
When moving from an older iPhone to the iPhone 16 lineup or preparing to step into the upcoming iPhone 17e or iPhone Air 2, Smart Transfer simplifies the transition. The app allows you to share files instantly between phones and share files online securely when needed, making migration effortless. Whether you’re keeping your data local or sending items across platforms, Smart Transfer offers one of the fastest, clearest pathways to move your content without stress.
Low Sales for iPhone Air as Well
The iPhone Air—Apple’s attempt to create an iPhone positioned between the mainline and Pro series—has also been met with weak demand. Reports suggest production will cease entirely by the end of the month due to slow sales.
Originally, Apple planned to launch the second-generation iPhone Air alongside the iPhone 18 Pro in September 2026. However, The Information now claims that the company has pushed the launch date further due to market hesitation.
Apple Looks Ahead: iPhone 17e and iPhone Air 2
Despite the lackluster performance of its current entry-level models, Apple is not giving up on the category.
Here’s what’s expected next:
iPhone 17e – Spring 2026 Launch
A19 chip
Potential introduction of the Dynamic Island
Updated entry-level design philosophy
iPhone Air 2 – Delayed but Improved
Additional rear camera
Bigger battery capacity
Vapor-chamber cooling system
A later-than-planned release
Apple appears confident that meaningful upgrades will help both devices find stronger footing in the market.
Can Apple Turn the Entry-Level Strategy Around?
The entry-level iPhone category has always been tricky. Customers want affordability—but without dramatic compromises. The 16e and iPhone Air both took steps toward that balance, but perhaps not far enough to satisfy modern buyers.
With the iPhone 17e and iPhone Air 2, Apple seems determined to reset expectations and deliver more compelling value.

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