Apple has officially moved away from producing smaller iPhones, marking the end of the iPhone mini series.
The last model, the 5.4-inch iPhone 13 mini, launched in 2021, and recent reports suggest that Apple has no plans to bring back a compact version of its flagship device.
The shift in strategy is based on sales figures that indicate a stronger consumer preference for larger smartphones, despite a vocal minority still favoring smaller devices.
Apple’s Decision
The iPhone 13 mini, despite being a technological powerhouse in a compact form, struggled to attract enough buyers.
Market reports indicate that it accounted for only a small fraction of total iPhone sales. Its predecessor, the iPhone 12 mini, faced a similar fate, with sales figures failing to justify the continuation of the lineup.
In response, Apple introduced the iPhone 14 Plus, a 6.7-inch alternative aimed at consumers who wanted a larger display without upgrading to the Pro models.
This model performed better in sales, reinforcing the idea that most users prefer bigger screens.
By the time the iPhone 15 lineup was released in 2023, Apple officially discontinued the iPhone 13 mini, signaling a clear departure from smaller form factors.
The Demand for Small Phones Still Exists
Despite weak sales, a dedicated group of users still prefers compact smartphones. A recent poll revealed that around 21% of respondents favored devices with screens under six inches, showing that the demand for small phones has not entirely disappeared.
However, it appears that this preference is not strong enough to influence Apple’s product strategy.
Larger smartphones have become the industry standard, with devices like the 6.9-inch iPhone 16 Pro Max leading the way in popularity.
The majority of consumers are drawn to bigger displays for media consumption, gaming, and productivity, making it harder for smaller devices to compete in the mainstream market.
Are There Alternatives for Small Phone Fans?
For those who still want a compact device, options are becoming increasingly limited. Apple’s smallest offering today is the 6.1-inch iPhone 16, which is still significantly larger than the discontinued mini models.
Other smartphone manufacturers have also moved towards bigger screens, leaving users who prefer compact phones with few choices.
One possible alternative could be foldable phones like the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip series, which offer a compact design when folded while still providing a large display when opened.
However, for those who prefer a truly small, non-folding phone, the future remains uncertain.
Will Apple Ever Bring Back the Mini?
While Apple’s current focus is on larger devices, the company has a history of revisiting past designs if market conditions change.
Analysts suggest that Apple may reconsider the mini form factor in the future, but there are no indications that a new compact iPhone is in development.
Instead, Apple is reportedly working on models like the iPhone 17 Air, which is expected to have a slim and lightweight design but still feature a display size closer to current models.
For now, fans of small smartphones will have to hold onto their iPhone 13 mini or explore alternative brands, as Apple continues to push forward with its larger-screen strategy.
