You can’t guess the best selling iPhone

Apple’s transition from the iPhone mini to the iPhone Plus is proving fruitful as the latter has garnered significant consumer favor. Reports reveal that the iPhone Plus achieved a 13% market share in 2024, contrasting sharply with the iPhone mini’s decline from 7% in 2022 to just 1% in 2023. Consumer Intelligence Research Partners (CIRP) has analyzed these shifts, indicating a clear trend towards larger iPhone models among users.

The latest data from CIRP highlights the performance of Apple’s current iPhone lineup, emphasizing a notable preference for larger devices. The statistics reveal the following breakdown for 2024 sales percentages: 42% for the base iPhone model, 26% for the iPhone Pro Max, 19% for the iPhone Pro, and 13% for the iPhone Plus. This demonstrates Apple’s strategy of prioritizing larger models is resonating with consumers, as both the iPhone Pro Max and Plus versions, despite being more expensive, utilize comparable components to the base models.

Given these trends, Apple’s decision to phase out the compact mini in favor of the Plus model appears strategically sound. This shift aligns with consumer preferences for larger screens, which are typically associated with a better user experience. Importantly, while the iPhone Plus has captured market interest, the base model maintains its lead as the best-selling category overall.

CIRP’s report sheds light on the nuances of iPhone sales. While it might seem surprising that the base model leads in overall sales, a closer look contextualizes this trend. Each year, Apple releases only one Pro and one Pro Max model at a time, while multiple base model variations are typically available. This discrepancy skews the perception of what it means to be a top seller in terms of individual models versus model classes.

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In 2024, the base iPhone model’s sales reflect strong consumer preference not merely due to its affordability but also its range. Apple’s marketing strategy allows for multiple options within the base and Plus segments, amplifying their appeal. Despite often being perceived as a budget option, the base model’s popularity stems from its accessibility and the robust specifications that Apple maintains across its models.

This analysis also showcases the iPhone Pro Max as the frontrunner when isolated from the broader category sales. Instead of drawing conclusions based solely on aggregate numbers, the individual model performance highlights the success stories within Apple’s lineup. The iPhone Pro Max, celebrated for its high-end features, continues to attract a discerning customer base willing to invest in premium devices.

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