Apple‘s latest budget-friendly smartphone, the iPhone 16e, has shown a 60% stronger launch in China compared to its predecessor, the iPhone SE, according to a report by International Data Corporation (IDC). However, despite this boost, Apple’s overall sales in China are projected to decline by 2% this year, as domestic rivals like Xiaomi, Vivo, and Huawei continue to dominate.
Competitive Market and Challenges
IDC Senior Director Nabila Popal noted that national Chinese subsidies favor Android manufacturers, making competition even tougher for Apple. Despite an 11% drop in sales during the festive season, Apple is slowly recovering lost ground in China and is expected to gain traction in price-sensitive markets like India.
iPhone 16e vs. Android Rivals
Replacing the third-generation iPhone SE, the iPhone 16e is now Apple’s most affordable smartphone, priced at ₹59,900 ($599). While it offers Apple’s latest A18 chip, 8GB RAM, a USB-C port, and Apple Intelligence support, many Android alternatives provide superior hardware at this price.
Key Features of iPhone 16e
- A18 chip (fewer GPU cores than premium iPhones)
- 8GB RAM
- Larger, modern display
- USB-C port
- Action Button
- 48MP camera
- Runs latest iOS
While the iPhone 16e provides a modernized experience compared to the iPhone SE, Apple faces an uphill battle in retaining market share in China amid growing Android competition.
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