Key Takeaways
1. Apple is introducing more affordable options in its iPhone lineup, like the iPhone 15 Plus and iPhone 16 Plus, but the ‘Plus’ models may be replaced by an ‘Air’ model due to lack of success.
2. Apple’s attempt to create a mini version of the iPhone has ended, with the mini model discontinued after two generations and no plans to return to the compact market.
3. Analyst Mark Gurman notes that Apple is focusing on larger displays, making the basic iPhone the compact choice by default as other models increase in size.
4. There are rumors about a foldable iPhone, which may revive the mini concept with a 5.5-inch cover display and a larger 7.8-inch foldable screen.
5. The shift towards larger phones has made 6-inch devices appear smaller in comparison, changing the market dynamics for Apple’s smartphone offerings.
Apple has been working hard to establish a strong fourth option in its main iPhone lineup. In the past few years, the company has introduced more affordable choices to the Pro Max series, including the iPhone 15 Plus and iPhone 16 Plus (currently priced at $749 – renewed on Amazon). However, rumors suggest that the iPhone 16 Plus may be set to be replaced by the first iPhone with the ‘Air’ label this year, indicating that Apple’s efforts with its larger iPhone models have not been very successful.
Apple’s Mini iPhone Journey
The company also tried to make a space for a mini version of the iPhone but faced similar challenges. Like the ‘Plus’ options, Apple discontinued the mini model after only two generations. According to well-known Apple analyst Mark Gurman, there are no plans for the company to re-enter the compact smartphone market anytime soon:
“Well, we’ll just have to see what the market tells Apple. At the moment they aren’t developing anything small. They’ve really moved away from that. They’re focusing on making the display around 6 inches as the new standard and are mostly looking to go bigger and bigger. The larger you make them, the smaller the 6-inch phones appear.”
The Shift in iPhone Sizes
Gurman implies that the basic iPhone has become the compact choice for Apple, but only because every other model has grown in size over the years. According to the latest rumors, the first foldable iPhone might bring a twist back to Apple’s ‘mini’ heritage. Currently, the rumored iPhone Fold is expected to have a 5.5-inch cover display, slightly larger than the 5.4-inch displays found in the iPhone 12 mini and iPhone 13 mini. It is said that this cover display will open up to reveal a 7.8-inch foldable screen with a 4:3 aspect ratio.
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