Survey: Apple iPhone 16e not the expected refurbish killer as users unimpressed with its price

In a surprising move, Apple has replaced its iPhone SE with the iPhone 16e as the new budget entry into the flagship iPhone 16 series. The 16e offers several features of the standard iPhone 16, such as a 6.1-inch OLED display, A18 chipset, 48MP camera, and Apple Intelligence, but lacks multiple rear cameras, MagSafe, and the Dynamic Island display. A recent survey of over 3,500 American Apple iPhone users found that most are unimpressed with the iPhone 16e. Only 12.4% reported being ‘extremely’ or ‘very’ impressed, while 72.9% said they were ‘slightly’ or ‘not at all’ impressed. With a starting price of € 549 (in Europe), the Apple iPhone 16e is significantly more expensive than the last iPhone SE. A staggering 91.6% of respondents feel the 16e is overpriced, with 72.7% suggesting it should be priced closer to € 460 and 18.9% saying it should stay around € 395 like the SE. And price is the most important reason consumers buy used and refurbished. The fact that consumers Apple iPhone 16e is lacking price sweet point, makes this phone not the expected refurbish killer.

Limited interest in future 'e' models

Despite the launch, 76.2% of surveyed users do not want Apple to release more budget ‘e’ versions in the future, signalling weak demand for this product line.

Brand value concerns with a budget model

Nearly two-thirds (63.3%) of respondents believe adding a budget-friendly model to the flagship iPhone lineup could devalue the Apple brand, while 36.7% disagree.

Few Apple iPhone users plan to buy the 16e

Only 7.3% of iPhone owners with an older model plan to upgrade to the iPhone 16e. The main reasons for choosing it include affordability (72.3%), battery life (67.4%), and the A18 processor (36.2%).

Lack of premium features deters potential buyers

On the other hand, the biggest deterrents include the lack of multiple rear cameras (52.6%), preference for a higher-end model (34%), and absence of MagSafe (16.1%).

Most users prefer premium iPhone models

Among those looking to upgrade, 23.7% plan to buy an iPhone 16 Pro or Pro Max, while 19.8% prefer the standard iPhone 16 or 16 Plus. Interestingly, 10.4% are considering switching to Android, while 8.1% are opting for an older or refurbished iPhone.

Premium iPhone 16 users have no regrets

Despite the launch of a cheaper alternative, 85.5% of iPhone 16 owners feel their purchase was worth the price. Moreover, 94.3% remain confident in their decision to buy a premium model.

Conclusion

The survey highlights that Apple users are largely unimpressed with the iPhone 16e, citing its high price and lack of premium features. The majority prefer to spend more on higher-end models rather than settle for a budget option. Despite its lower cost, the iPhone 16e has yet to make a significant impact on Apple’s loyal user base and it most certainly not the expected refurbish killer.

Via: SellCell