14 DAY TRIAL // Apple has recently unveiled the iPhone 13, and just as expected, the 2021 generation includes the same four-model lineup as in 2020.
In other words, in addition to the 6.1-inch iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 Pro and the much larger iPhone 13 Pro Max, we’re also getting a 5.4-inch iPhone mini for the second year in a row.
On the other hand, we’ve known for a while the 2021 generation is likely to be the last time the iPhone mini receives a refresh, and Apple leaker Jon Prosser, who has a good track on Apple scoops, reiterates the same message in a tweet a few hours ago.
The iPhone 13 mini is the last iPhone mini that Apple plans to release, as the company is then expected to kill off this form factor completely beginning with the iPhone 14.
What happens next?
On the other hand, while several sources have so far indicated the iPhone mini would be discontinued, few actually know exactly precisely what’s going to happen once this 5.4-inch form factor is retired.
While some believe Apple would stick with larger iPhones, there’s a chance the iPhone 13 mini would stick around for one more year or two until it eventually becomes the new iPhone SE. This way, Apple can continue offering a smaller iPhone in the long term as well.
At this point, however, the company has obviously remained tight-lipped on everything related to its long-term plans for the 5.4-inch form factor, but it’s believed the iPhone mini has so far recorded rather disappointing sales as part of the iPhone 12 lineup.
It remains to be seen if the iPhone 13 mini changes anything, but at this point, Apple seems to be fully prepared to give up on the 5.4-inch model next year.