Apple is reportedly already working on a successor to the iPhone 16E

The iPhone 16E only goes on sale today, but there’s already talk of a successor coming next year.

According to a report by Consumer Intelligence Research Partners (CIRP), the iPhone 16E will be the first in a new line of more affordable “e” models that Apple plans to renew yearly. CIRP likened this approach to what Google is doing with its Pixel “a” models.

Around the same time, leaker Fixed Focus Digital shared on Weibo that there’s “a new project code” and it’s likely to be the new “e” model. It’s worth pointing out that Fixed Focus Digital was the first leaker to mention the “iPhone 16E” name.

If true, this would mark a significant change in Apple’s iPhone strategy. The company has typically only refreshed its most basic model after a few years. If you recall, the last generation iPhone SE was released in 2022 and its predecessor came in 2020. A yearly update cadence would certainly help generate more interest and momentum.

And if we look at the iPhone 16E, there’s some evidence to suggest that this might be Apple’s plan for its most affordable iPhone. Not only does it bear a new name, the iPhone 16E also features a thoroughly updated design and feature set that sets it apart from the last iPhone SE. Though the display and case are borrowed heavily from the iPhone 14, it features the newest A18 chip, the company’s own C1 modem, and a 48MP camera like the rest of the iPhone 16 lineup.

That said, whether or not Apple will switch to a yearly update cadence for its entry-level iPhone will likely depend greatly on how well the iPhone 16E sells.

Head over here to review our review of the iPhone 16E.

Source: CIRP, Fixed Focus Digital via MacRumors

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