Apple announced an updated iPhone SE at yesterday’s “Peek Performance” event. Despite the bigger US$429 price tag, the updated iPhone SE is expected to do well, with 5G network support now bringing it in-line with key competitors across the mid-end segment, according to Counterpoint Research.
According to the research group’s” Smartphone Model Share Tracker, Q4 2021,” the 4G iPhone SE 2020 accounted for 12% of Apple’s total iPhone unit sales from its launch in quarter two (Q2) 2020 to quarter four (Q4) 2021 – with Japan and U.S. the biggest markets for the device globally.
“The iPhone SE has been a solid mid-segment performer for Apple, with the 2020 version accounting for 13% of overall sales during its launch year in 2020,” states Jeff Fieldhack, research director of Counterpoint’s US practice. “It’s continued to have fantastic longevity with the device appealing to both new iOS users looking to upgrade from budget Android or iPhone owners replacing iPhone 8 (or older) devices, which this new SE body is based around.”
Counterpoint Senior Analyst Sujeong Lim highlights the importance of key regional markets to the success of the new 5G enabled device.
“Developed markets like Japan will be critical to the success of the new iPhone SE, where one-third of all 2020 SE models have been sold – and, of course, stalwarts like the U.S. and China which accounted for another third of unit sales will be big drivers,” he says. “But this time, we expect demand to open up more across other markets like Europe, SE Asia and Korea – regions where many consumers stayed away because of the lack of 5G support.”
