After two consecutive generations of declining iPhone sales, Apple has changed its approach this year by equipping the entire iPhone 16 lineup with the A18 processor, undoubtedly aiming to regain the favor of low-end users. However, the significant differences in appearance between the standard and Pro versions of iPhone 16 this year may drive away low-end users.

In the past two generations of iPhone 14 and iPhone 15, Apple made significant differentiations. The standard version of iPhone 14 featured an older processor and a notch display, while the Pro version adopted the Dynamic Island design. The entire iPhone 15 lineup then embraced the Dynamic Island, but the standard version still used an older processor.

As a result, sales of the standard version were significantly lower than those of the Pro version. It is reported that the standard version of iPhone 15 accounted for only about 30% of total sales, with most users opting for the Pro version, given the premium they paid for an iPhone, they were willing to pay an extra $1000 or more for the Pro model.

This led to price-sensitive users either opting for older iPhone models or switching to Android devices, contributing to declining iPhone sales. In 2023, iPhone sales reached 225.3 million units, significantly lower than the 237 million units sold during the iPhone 13 era, which set an all-time record for Apple.

It is evident that consumers cannot accept significant differences in the standard version. Even though the entire iPhone 15 lineup featured the Dynamic Island design, performance disparities still failed to satisfy low-end users, affecting overall iPhone 15 sales. Many iPhone users are indeed price-sensitive.

Apple, likely learning from the lessons of iPhone 14 and iPhone 15, has gradually made changes. With the entire iPhone 15 lineup adopting the Dynamic Island design and the A18 processor, Apple aimed to meet the demands of price-sensitive consumers. However, the significant differences in the appearance of iPhone 16 may thwart Apple's expectations.

While the displays of the entire iPhone 16 lineup are similar, there are notable differences in their backs. The camera modules of iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus resemble traffic lights, while those of iPhone 16 Pro feature a square design. This allows consumers to immediately distinguish between the two models based on their backs.

Apple's intention is undoubtedly to encourage consumers to opt for the more expensive Pro version by creating a noticeable aesthetic contrast. However, this approach may be unacceptable to price-sensitive low-end users, many of whom choose iPhones due to prestige-related reasons.

For these price-sensitive yet prestige-conscious consumers, the iPhone 15 Pro is a more practical choice. Both the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro share similar displays and backs, with differences primarily in performance. Given the robust capabilities of Apple's A-series processors and the optimization of the iOS system, these devices remain competitive even after years of use. Many consumers still find the performance of iPhone 7 and iPhone 8 sufficient. Since the iPhone 15 Pro's price is comparable to that of the standard iPhone 16, the former is undoubtedly a better choice.

It is evident that Apple is gradually making concessions while still leaving some regrets for price-sensitive low-end users, thereby motivating them to spend more on new iPhones. However, historical trends suggest that Apple's approach may not yield the desired results. Low-end users prefer older iPhones or Android flagships over new iPhone Pro models, potentially leading to a further decline in iPhone 16 sales.