Breaking
25 Mar 2025, Tue


Apple took a significant step in its technological renewal strategy by announcing, in March 2025, the discontinuation of three popular models: iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, and the third-generation iPhone SE. This decision, directly affecting millions of users worldwide, reflects the company’s focus on steering consumers toward more advanced devices, such as the iPhone 16 lineup and the highly anticipated iPhone 17. With over 1.2 billion active iPhones globally, phasing out these devices marks a key transition in the Cupertino giant’s portfolio, aiming to maintain its edge in an increasingly competitive market. The move also sparks questions about the future for users of these models and the alternatives available.

Released in 2022, the iPhone 14 and 14 Plus debuted with the A15 Bionic chip, delivering improvements in computational photography and durability, while the third-generation iPhone SE stood out for offering solid performance in a compact, budget-friendly design. Despite their initial success, these devices are now giving way to newer technologies, such as the A18 processor and features tied to Apple Intelligence. Though expected as part of Apple’s annual product cycle, the change is already stirring reactions among users, particularly in regions where more affordable models retain strong appeal.

The retirement of these iPhones goes beyond a simple hardware update. It signals Apple’s intent to align its ecosystem with the demands of future software, like iOS 19, and to concentrate production on devices offering greater energy efficiency and advanced connectivity. As users brace for the impact, the smartphone and accessory markets are already beginning to feel the ripple effects of this strategic shift.

Why Apple is retiring these models

Discontinuing the iPhone 14, 14 Plus, and SE (3rd generation) is part of Apple’s recurring process of refreshing its product lineup to prioritize innovation and performance. The iPhone 14 and its Plus variant, for instance, have been outpaced by advancements in the iPhone 15 series, which introduced USB-C ports and the A16 Bionic chip. Meanwhile, the iPhone 16 lineup, launched in 2024, brought the A18 chip, optimized for artificial intelligence tools that demand higher processing power.

For the third-generation iPhone SE, the lack of features like the Dynamic Island and dual cameras put it at a disadvantage compared to newer models. While still equipped with the A15 Bionic chip shared by the iPhone 14, it struggles to meet the requirements of upcoming apps and operating systems. Apple aims to ensure its active devices remain compatible with security updates and new features for longer periods through this shift.

Production optimization plays a role too. By phasing out these models, Apple frees up manufacturing capacity for mass production of upcoming releases, such as the rumored iPhone 17 Air, expected to feature an ultra-thin design. In 2024, about 70% of iPhone users were already using models launched within the past three years, reinforcing the trend of rapid adoption of new devices and justifying the retirement of older ones.

Immediate impacts for iPhone 14 and SE users

Millions of owners of the discontinued models won’t face drastic changes right away, but the announcement carries medium- and long-term implications. Following Apple’s typical pattern, these iPhones are likely to receive full iOS updates for at least another two to three years, making them compatible up to iOS 20 or 21, based on the company’s five-year support standard post-launch. Beyond that, they may still get security patches, but access to features requiring modern hardware will fade.

In emerging markets, where the iPhone SE (3rd generation) is prized for its affordability and reliable performance, the discontinuation could limit purchasing options through official retail channels. In 2024, the model accounted for roughly 10% of global iPhone sales, highlighting its importance in countries with lower purchasing power. Switching to pricier options like the iPhone 15 or 16 may pose a challenge for these users.

Device longevity is another concern. With production ending, replacement parts for repairs may become scarcer over time, particularly after 2027, when official support is expected to wane. This makes it critical for users to keep their devices updated and explore alternatives before the lifecycle fully concludes.

Options to replace the discontinued models

Those needing to replace the affected iPhones have a range of choices within Apple’s current lineup. The iPhone 15 series, available in standard and Plus versions, offers upgrades like a 48 MP camera sensor and improved energy efficiency, striking a balance between cost and performance. Meanwhile, the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max models raise the bar with 120 Hz ProMotion displays and the A18 Pro chip, catering to users prioritizing professional photography and heavy gaming.

A notable 2025 addition is the iPhone 16e, launched in March as a more affordable option. Featuring the A18 chip and a competitive price, it targets the audience that once favored the SE, retaining a compact design and support for the latest technologies. The used market remains a compelling alternative too: in 2024, the iPhone 14 still accounted for 15% of global refurbished iPhone sales.

Apple’s trade-in program also stands out. In 2025, the company expanded its incentives, offering up to $300 in discounts on new models when trading in well-maintained older iPhones. This initiative eases the transition to updated devices, especially for those with an iPhone 14 or SE in good condition.

  • iPhone 15: 48 MP camera and USB-C, starting at $800.
  • iPhone 16 Pro: 120 Hz display and A18 Pro, perfect for demanding users.
  • iPhone 16e: Budget-friendly with A18, aimed at SE fans.

Support timeline for the affected devices

The end of production kicks off a countdown for official support. Based on Apple’s track record, the expected timeline for iPhone 14, 14 Plus, and SE (3rd generation) includes:

  • 2025: Official sales and production cease.
  • 2026-2027: Final full iOS updates, likely up to iOS 20.
  • 2028: Probable end of security updates.

This schedule gives users a reasonable window to plan replacements. Apple’s reputation for extended support holds firm, but incompatibility with future software features, like those anticipated in iOS 19, could hasten obsolescence for these models.

Effects on the global smartphone market

The discontinuation of these three iPhones reverberates beyond end users. Accessory manufacturers, such as those producing cases and screen protectors, will likely scale back offerings for these models over time. In 2023, the retirement of the iPhone 13 boosted the used market by 20%, and a similar uptick is anticipated now, benefiting resale platforms and budget-conscious buyers.

Globally, Apple remains a market leader, holding a 20% share of the smartphone sector in 2024. Focusing on premium models like the iPhone Pro lineup, which drove 60% of the company’s revenue in the last quarter of 2024, bolsters profit margins. However, smaller retailers in less affluent regions may struggle with fewer affordable options, as the iPhone SE was a top seller in markets like India and Southeast Asia.

Mass production of upcoming releases will also energize the supply chain. With factories in China and India gearing up for the iPhone 17, Apple reinforces its commitment to innovation while maintaining a steady stream of new devices to meet global demand.

How users can adapt to the change

Maximizing the life of discontinued iPhones requires straightforward yet effective strategies. Regularly updating iOS ensures devices stay secure and functional for as long as possible. Monitoring battery health is equally vital, with authorized service replacements available to extend usability.

Selling or trading in the device before its market value drops significantly is another smart move. In 2024, used iPhones saw an average depreciation of 30% per year, a rate that could rise post-support. For those eyeing an upgrade, Apple’s trade-in program provides an accessible bridge to newer models.

  • Update software whenever available.
  • Replace the battery if performance dips below 80%.
  • Consider trading in before 2027 to retain value.

Rumors and expectations for upcoming iPhones

Phasing out these models paves the way for innovations slated for 2025. The iPhone 17 Air, rumored as the year’s standout, is expected to boast a lighter, thinner design and enhanced Apple Intelligence features. Generative AI tools, like more intuitive virtual assistants, are set to roll out with iOS 19, unveiled at WWDC in June 2025.

Between 2022 and 2024, Apple sold over 300 million iPhones worldwide, and the company is banking on technologies like augmented reality and improved 5G to sustain this growth. Replacing older models with more capable options underscores Apple’s long-term vision of aligning hardware and software in an ever-evolving ecosystem.

Beyond iPhones: what’s new in 2025

The renewal extends beyond smartphones. In March 2025, the iPad Air debuted with the M3 chip, while the MacBook Air introduced the M4, solidifying Apple’s shift to in-house processors. These advancements are expected to trickle down to future iPhones, enhancing cross-device integration with features like iPhone Mirroring, which mirrors the phone on a Mac.

Apple Pay will also see a major update in 2025, adding PayPal balance support, broadening digital payment options. This connectivity strengthens the appeal of Apple’s ecosystem, drawing users with promises of convenience and cutting-edge technology.

Fun facts about iPhone evolution

Apple’s history is filled with decisions that shaped the tech landscape. Here are some highlights tied to the discontinued models:

  • The iPhone 14 was the last to feature the notch before the full shift to Dynamic Island.
  • The iPhone SE (3rd generation) carried forward the iPhone 8’s design from 2017.
  • Over 50 million iPhone 14 units sold in its first year alone.

These tidbits showcase how Apple balances legacy and progress, retiring models to make room for new horizons.



Apple took a significant step in its technological renewal strategy by announcing, in March 2025, the discontinuation of three popular models: iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, and the third-generation iPhone SE. This decision, directly affecting millions of users worldwide, reflects the company’s focus on steering consumers toward more advanced devices, such as the iPhone 16 lineup and the highly anticipated iPhone 17. With over 1.2 billion active iPhones globally, phasing out these devices marks a key transition in the Cupertino giant’s portfolio, aiming to maintain its edge in an increasingly competitive market. The move also sparks questions about the future for users of these models and the alternatives available.

Released in 2022, the iPhone 14 and 14 Plus debuted with the A15 Bionic chip, delivering improvements in computational photography and durability, while the third-generation iPhone SE stood out for offering solid performance in a compact, budget-friendly design. Despite their initial success, these devices are now giving way to newer technologies, such as the A18 processor and features tied to Apple Intelligence. Though expected as part of Apple’s annual product cycle, the change is already stirring reactions among users, particularly in regions where more affordable models retain strong appeal.

The retirement of these iPhones goes beyond a simple hardware update. It signals Apple’s intent to align its ecosystem with the demands of future software, like iOS 19, and to concentrate production on devices offering greater energy efficiency and advanced connectivity. As users brace for the impact, the smartphone and accessory markets are already beginning to feel the ripple effects of this strategic shift.

Why Apple is retiring these models

Discontinuing the iPhone 14, 14 Plus, and SE (3rd generation) is part of Apple’s recurring process of refreshing its product lineup to prioritize innovation and performance. The iPhone 14 and its Plus variant, for instance, have been outpaced by advancements in the iPhone 15 series, which introduced USB-C ports and the A16 Bionic chip. Meanwhile, the iPhone 16 lineup, launched in 2024, brought the A18 chip, optimized for artificial intelligence tools that demand higher processing power.

For the third-generation iPhone SE, the lack of features like the Dynamic Island and dual cameras put it at a disadvantage compared to newer models. While still equipped with the A15 Bionic chip shared by the iPhone 14, it struggles to meet the requirements of upcoming apps and operating systems. Apple aims to ensure its active devices remain compatible with security updates and new features for longer periods through this shift.

Production optimization plays a role too. By phasing out these models, Apple frees up manufacturing capacity for mass production of upcoming releases, such as the rumored iPhone 17 Air, expected to feature an ultra-thin design. In 2024, about 70% of iPhone users were already using models launched within the past three years, reinforcing the trend of rapid adoption of new devices and justifying the retirement of older ones.

Immediate impacts for iPhone 14 and SE users

Millions of owners of the discontinued models won’t face drastic changes right away, but the announcement carries medium- and long-term implications. Following Apple’s typical pattern, these iPhones are likely to receive full iOS updates for at least another two to three years, making them compatible up to iOS 20 or 21, based on the company’s five-year support standard post-launch. Beyond that, they may still get security patches, but access to features requiring modern hardware will fade.

In emerging markets, where the iPhone SE (3rd generation) is prized for its affordability and reliable performance, the discontinuation could limit purchasing options through official retail channels. In 2024, the model accounted for roughly 10% of global iPhone sales, highlighting its importance in countries with lower purchasing power. Switching to pricier options like the iPhone 15 or 16 may pose a challenge for these users.

Device longevity is another concern. With production ending, replacement parts for repairs may become scarcer over time, particularly after 2027, when official support is expected to wane. This makes it critical for users to keep their devices updated and explore alternatives before the lifecycle fully concludes.

Options to replace the discontinued models

Those needing to replace the affected iPhones have a range of choices within Apple’s current lineup. The iPhone 15 series, available in standard and Plus versions, offers upgrades like a 48 MP camera sensor and improved energy efficiency, striking a balance between cost and performance. Meanwhile, the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max models raise the bar with 120 Hz ProMotion displays and the A18 Pro chip, catering to users prioritizing professional photography and heavy gaming.

A notable 2025 addition is the iPhone 16e, launched in March as a more affordable option. Featuring the A18 chip and a competitive price, it targets the audience that once favored the SE, retaining a compact design and support for the latest technologies. The used market remains a compelling alternative too: in 2024, the iPhone 14 still accounted for 15% of global refurbished iPhone sales.

Apple’s trade-in program also stands out. In 2025, the company expanded its incentives, offering up to $300 in discounts on new models when trading in well-maintained older iPhones. This initiative eases the transition to updated devices, especially for those with an iPhone 14 or SE in good condition.

  • iPhone 15: 48 MP camera and USB-C, starting at $800.
  • iPhone 16 Pro: 120 Hz display and A18 Pro, perfect for demanding users.
  • iPhone 16e: Budget-friendly with A18, aimed at SE fans.

Support timeline for the affected devices

The end of production kicks off a countdown for official support. Based on Apple’s track record, the expected timeline for iPhone 14, 14 Plus, and SE (3rd generation) includes:

  • 2025: Official sales and production cease.
  • 2026-2027: Final full iOS updates, likely up to iOS 20.
  • 2028: Probable end of security updates.

This schedule gives users a reasonable window to plan replacements. Apple’s reputation for extended support holds firm, but incompatibility with future software features, like those anticipated in iOS 19, could hasten obsolescence for these models.

Effects on the global smartphone market

The discontinuation of these three iPhones reverberates beyond end users. Accessory manufacturers, such as those producing cases and screen protectors, will likely scale back offerings for these models over time. In 2023, the retirement of the iPhone 13 boosted the used market by 20%, and a similar uptick is anticipated now, benefiting resale platforms and budget-conscious buyers.

Globally, Apple remains a market leader, holding a 20% share of the smartphone sector in 2024. Focusing on premium models like the iPhone Pro lineup, which drove 60% of the company’s revenue in the last quarter of 2024, bolsters profit margins. However, smaller retailers in less affluent regions may struggle with fewer affordable options, as the iPhone SE was a top seller in markets like India and Southeast Asia.

Mass production of upcoming releases will also energize the supply chain. With factories in China and India gearing up for the iPhone 17, Apple reinforces its commitment to innovation while maintaining a steady stream of new devices to meet global demand.

How users can adapt to the change

Maximizing the life of discontinued iPhones requires straightforward yet effective strategies. Regularly updating iOS ensures devices stay secure and functional for as long as possible. Monitoring battery health is equally vital, with authorized service replacements available to extend usability.

Selling or trading in the device before its market value drops significantly is another smart move. In 2024, used iPhones saw an average depreciation of 30% per year, a rate that could rise post-support. For those eyeing an upgrade, Apple’s trade-in program provides an accessible bridge to newer models.

  • Update software whenever available.
  • Replace the battery if performance dips below 80%.
  • Consider trading in before 2027 to retain value.

Rumors and expectations for upcoming iPhones

Phasing out these models paves the way for innovations slated for 2025. The iPhone 17 Air, rumored as the year’s standout, is expected to boast a lighter, thinner design and enhanced Apple Intelligence features. Generative AI tools, like more intuitive virtual assistants, are set to roll out with iOS 19, unveiled at WWDC in June 2025.

Between 2022 and 2024, Apple sold over 300 million iPhones worldwide, and the company is banking on technologies like augmented reality and improved 5G to sustain this growth. Replacing older models with more capable options underscores Apple’s long-term vision of aligning hardware and software in an ever-evolving ecosystem.

Beyond iPhones: what’s new in 2025

The renewal extends beyond smartphones. In March 2025, the iPad Air debuted with the M3 chip, while the MacBook Air introduced the M4, solidifying Apple’s shift to in-house processors. These advancements are expected to trickle down to future iPhones, enhancing cross-device integration with features like iPhone Mirroring, which mirrors the phone on a Mac.

Apple Pay will also see a major update in 2025, adding PayPal balance support, broadening digital payment options. This connectivity strengthens the appeal of Apple’s ecosystem, drawing users with promises of convenience and cutting-edge technology.

Fun facts about iPhone evolution

Apple’s history is filled with decisions that shaped the tech landscape. Here are some highlights tied to the discontinued models:

  • The iPhone 14 was the last to feature the notch before the full shift to Dynamic Island.
  • The iPhone SE (3rd generation) carried forward the iPhone 8’s design from 2017.
  • Over 50 million iPhone 14 units sold in its first year alone.

These tidbits showcase how Apple balances legacy and progress, retiring models to make room for new horizons.



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