Earlier this month, Apple confirmed that the latest device to be marked “obsolete” is the original iPhone SE - a model launched in 2016 to target the affordable Android smartphone segment while preserving the compact design so many Apple fans loved.

According to PhoneArena, the original iPhone SE was essentially a power-packed upgrade of the iPhone 5s from 2013. It inherited the same flat-edge frame, 4-inch display, physical Home button, and first-gen Touch ID fingerprint sensor.

At the time of release, as the smartphone market trended toward larger screens, the SE became a rare find for those who still preferred smaller, pocket-friendly devices.

When it launched, Apple’s flagship phones - the iPhone 6s and 6s Plus - came with significantly larger screens (4.7 and 5.5 inches). Yet the SE shared the same powerful A9 chip found in the 6s series, delivering premium performance in a compact body.

Priced at just $399 for the 16GB version, it was dramatically more affordable than the 6s ($649) and 6s Plus ($749). Apple also released 64GB, then later replaced those with 32GB and 128GB options to meet growing storage needs.

Combining strong performance, a familiar design, and a budget-friendly price, the first-gen iPhone SE became one of Apple’s most successful low-cost models.

What happens when an iPhone is obsolete?

According to Apple’s policy, a product is deemed obsolete once seven years have passed since it was last sold. At that point, Apple ceases all hardware support - meaning no more repairs, battery replacements, or spare parts orders, even at authorized service centers.

Before becoming obsolete, devices typically pass through a “vintage” phase for 5–7 years, during which limited repair services may still be offered - if parts are available. However, such devices no longer receive iOS updates or security patches, raising potential cybersecurity risks.

With this status change, the original iPhone SE will no longer receive any support of any kind, officially closing its nearly 10-year journey.

iPhone SE gives way to the new iPhone 16e

This year, Apple discontinued the SE line entirely and introduced the iPhone 16e as its most affordable model. Starting at $599 for 128GB, the 16e costs more than its SE predecessors but brings substantial upgrades.

The iPhone 16e features 8GB RAM, supports Apple Intelligence (the company’s new AI platform), and is the first budget iPhone to include Face ID - effectively phasing out the Home button and Touch ID once and for all.

Rumors suggest Apple may further expand this segment next year with the iPhone 17e, aimed at offering a more accessible entry point into the iPhone ecosystem.

Hai Phong