Apple has decided halt production of the iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, and third-generation iPhone SE throughout 2025This move will mark a turning point for the mid-range and entry-level segments of its product line. The measure, scheduled to begin implementation in March of next year, aligns with the company's roadmap to focus its resources on newer models and the artificial intelligence features that will arrive with upcoming versions of iOS.
Although these devices will no longer be produced on the assembly lines, They will continue to receive software updates for several years.Therefore, current owners won't be left stranded overnight. However, the decision will affect purchasing options for new units, the accessories market, and resale prices, especially in regions like Spain and the rest of Europe, where these models have been a common entry point to the Apple ecosystem.
Why Apple is cutting production of the iPhone 14 and SE
According to internal planning, Production of the iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, and iPhone SE (3rd generation) will begin to be shut down starting in March 2025.This is not an isolated reduction, but rather a continuation of Apple's annual renewal policy, in which older models are phased out to make room for the latest generations.
The iPhone 14 and 14 Plus, released in 2022 and equipped with the A15 Bionic chip, They have fallen behind the performance of the iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 familiesThe iPhone 15 generation introduced the USB-C port and the A16 Bionic chip, while the iPhone 16 range is set to debut the A18, a processor designed to take advantage of the new artificial intelligence features integrated into Apple Intelligence.
The third-generation iPhone SE, also from 2022, has fulfilled the role of a compact and more affordable model, but It lacks key elements of recent ranges such as Dynamic Island, more advanced camera systems, and higher-quality displays. With the next wave of AI features and ecosystem-linked services, Apple prefers to focus its catalog on devices capable of seamlessly running all these new technologies.
In parallel, the company seeks Simplify the product range and push users towards models with higher margins and better integration with Apple IntelligenceThe commercial focus will shift towards the iPhone 15, iPhone 16 series and the future iPhone 17where camera features, graphics performance, and AI capabilities will be the main draw.
Apple Intelligence and the hardware gap
One of the underlying reasons for this movement is in the technical requirements of Apple Intelligence, the generative artificial intelligence platform that the company is rolling out across iOS, iPadOS, and macOS. Many of the most ambitious features—more contextual assistants, on-device text and image generation, and new Siri capabilities—require neural processing power greater than that offered by the A15 Bionic chip in the discontinued models, and the search for new partners and production strategies has even fueled news about manufacture chips for future iPhones by third parties.
Apple is drawing a clear line between iPhones with hardware fully compatible with Apple Intelligence and models that will only be able to enjoy a limited part of these featuresIn practice, this means that the iPhone 14, 14 Plus, and SE (3rd generation) will maintain basic compatibility with future versions of iOS, but will be excluded from some flagship features that will be reserved for devices with newer chips like the A17 Pro or A18.
The strategy seeks to unify the ecosystem around a common technical foundation, facilitating the development of new AI tools and reducing fragmentation. At the same time, reinforces the appeal of the latest generation iPhones For those who want to make the most of these capabilities, something especially relevant in mature markets like Europe, where users tend to extend the lifespan of their mobile phones but also value access to the latest features.
Lifespan, updates and end of support
Despite the end of production, Current owners of an iPhone 14, 14 Plus, or SE (3rd generation) will continue to receive software support for a considerable period.Apple typically offers iOS updates for about five years after the device launches, which puts the horizon for these models around 2027-2028.
Forecasts from various analysts suggest that These phones will be compatible with versions like iOS 20 and even iOS 21During that time, security improvements, bug fixes, and some new features that don't depend on specific hardware will be added.
However, as the calendar progresses, Access to the most demanding features will be reduced.Advanced AI tools, next-generation computational camera features, and deep integrations with Apple Intelligence may be restricted to newer chips. The final phase of the lifecycle, around 2028, could be limited to occasional security patches before final support is discontinued.
For users in Spain or other European countries, where it is common to keep the iPhone for several years, The key will be to assess whether the device still meets everyday needs. When features exclusive to newer models start to arrive, as long as you keep iOS up to date and the battery in good condition, an iPhone 14 or an SE (3rd generation) will remain fully usable for messaging, social media, photos, and most apps.
Market impact: accessories, second-hand and mid-range
The removal of the iPhone 14, 14 Plus and SE (3rd generation) from the official channel This will have side effects on the aftermarket and resale.Manufacturers of cases, chargers, and other peripherals, such as the new charging baseThey will gradually reduce specific production for these models as demand for new units falls.
At the same time, everything points to the fact that The second-hand and refurbished market will be strengthenedIn 2024, the iPhone 14 still accounted for around 15% of global mid-range iPhone sales, indicating a very large user base. When it ceases to be sold new, many of these devices will end up on resale platforms, in refurbished stores, and with carriers offering lower-cost financing; second hand market It already shows similar dynamics.
In Europe, and specifically in Spain, where price is a determining factor for a large part of the consumer base, It is expected that the iPhone 14 and SE will become attractive second-hand options For those looking to enter the Apple ecosystem without the cost of a newly released model. However, the evolution of software support and the gradual loss of cutting-edge features will be aspects to consider before buying.
For Apple, the move fits with the intention of strengthen the models with the highest profit marginsIn the last part of 2024, the Pro variants accounted for nearly 60% of iPhone revenue, and the company wants to continue strengthening that segment while limiting dispersion in the mid-range.
What alternatives does Apple offer: iPhone 15, iPhone 16 and the future iPhone 16e
With the iPhone 14 and SE reaching the end of their production run, Apple is reorganizing its offerings with several upgrade paths.On the one hand, the iPhone 15 family —with its standard and Plus models— already represents a significant leap in camera, battery life and connectivity, incorporating a 48-megapixel main sensor, better energy efficiency and the USB-C connector.
On the other hand, the iPhone 16 series, and in particular the Pro and Pro Max models They aim to be the epicenter of Apple Intelligence's new featuresThanks to the A18 Pro chip, 120Hz ProMotion displays, and specific improvements in photography and video, these devices are aimed at users who want the ultimate in performance and advanced features, both for personal and professional use.
To avoid leaving those looking for something more affordable without options, the company is preparing the iPhone 16e, expected in March 2025This model, also based on the A18 chip, aims to fill the gap left by the iPhone SE as an entry-level option, but with a more modern design and more complete integration with Apple Intelligence than the devices it replaces.
In addition, Apple is strengthening its exchange and buyback programs for old terminalsDepending on the model and its condition, the company offers valuations that make it easier to upgrade to a latest-generation iPhone with a lower initial outlay, something especially relevant in European markets where financing and annual renewal plans are gaining ground.
The discontinuation of the iPhone 14, 14 Plus, and third-generation iPhone SE effectively marks the end of an era focused on the A15 chip and a very popular mid-range segment. to make way for a more compact catalogPowered by A18 processors and the expansion of Apple Intelligence, the iPhone 15 will continue to receive updates for several years. Those considering buying or upgrading will have to decide whether to opt for an older model at a lower price on the secondhand market or choose the new iPhone 15, 16, and the upcoming 16e series, which will feature most of the new artificial intelligence, camera, and performance enhancements within the Apple ecosystem.
