Could Apple Revive the iPhone Mini? A New Lineup Change Offers Hope

Apple may reintroduce the iPhone mini after a 2-year hiatus due to a recent lineup change. The iPhone mini failed due to its high price point and compromised battery life. A new iPhone 16e model, priced at $599, has been introduced, and some speculate that Apple could reintroduce the iPhone mini as an iPhone 16e mini at a lower price point of $499, making it more appealing to consumers.

Apple may be considering a return to the iPhone mini segment after a two-year hiatus, according to recent reports. This potential move follows a recent lineup change and could be influenced by the introduction of the iPhone 16e model.

The iPhone mini, introduced in 2020, offered a 5.4-inch form factor with the same technologies as the iPhone 12. However, it was discontinued due to its high price point and compromised battery life. The iPhone 12 mini and iPhone 13 mini were both priced at $699, which was seen as too expensive for a smaller phone. In contrast, the original iPhone SE, which was introduced in 2016, thrived due to its lower price point and similar technology to the larger iPhones.

The iPhone 16e, priced at $599, is a 6.1-inch model with a USB-C port, A18 chip, and a single camera. While it is a compelling offering, some speculate that Apple could reintroduce an iPhone mini under the 'e' lineup at a lower price point of $499. This move would make the phone more appealing to consumers who prefer smaller devices but are hesitant to pay a premium for them.

A potential iPhone 16e mini could benefit from the extensive research and development already done for the iPhone mini. Additionally, Apple's reported plan to switch to a staggered release schedule in 2026 could provide an even larger stage for a new iPhone mini, potentially increasing its appeal to consumers.

While the odds of this happening are slim, it is not entirely out of the realm of possibility. Apple is uniquely positioned to fill the small smartphone niche, and with standard iPhones now packing 6.3-inch displays, a new iPhone mini could be a strategic move to capture a different segment of the market.

References:
[1] https://9to5mac.com/2025/09/06/apple-reintroduce-iphone-mini-new-budget-model/
[2] https://www.tomsguide.com/phones/iphones/best-iphone-16-deals