Apple simplifies iPhone lineup with iPhone 16e launch and discontinues SE and 14 models

Apple has kicked off the year with the introduction of the iPhone 16e, a device that not only expands its smartphone lineup but also reshapes it by eliminating some familiar options. With this release, Apple has officially discontinued the iPhone SE, iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus, while also quietly removing the iPhone 14 from its online store. While the standard iPhone 14 will still be available through select third-party retailers, its absence from Apple’s website signals a shift in the company’s strategy.

The decision to retire the SE series marks the end of an era for those who favored the compact form factor and lower price point. The new iPhone 16e comes in at a higher starting price of $599, compared to the $429 tag of the SE, making it clear that Apple is repositioning its entry-level offering with more premium features. The 16e sports a 6.1-inch OLED display, putting it in the same category as the iPhone 14, but leaves those who prefer a larger screen with fewer affordable options—pushing them towards the iPhone 15 Plus or higher-end models.

Simplifying the lineup might make shopping for an iPhone easier, but it also means fewer budget-friendly choices for consumers. The absence of a device with a Home button further signals Apple’s full commitment to Face ID as the standard across all new models. For those who still prefer the classic design, refurbished models may now be the only alternative.

Apple’s move reflects a strategy focused on streamlining its product lineup while integrating modern technology across the board. By consolidating multiple models into one, the company ensures that even its most affordable new iPhone benefits from the latest advancements, even if it means leaving behind some of the options users once depended on.