What Happened to the iPhone Mini?
The iPhone Mini series came and went faster than almost any other modern iPhone. It appeared, made a splash with fans who loved smaller devices, and then quietly disappeared from Apple’s lineup. So what exactly happened to the iPhone Mini — and why did Apple abandon it so quickly?
Here’s a quick breakdown of the iPhone Mini story, from its launch to its short-lived exit.
If you’re looking at smaller or more affordable iPhones today, you might also like our iPhone 16e Review.
Was the iPhone Mini the Smallest iPhone?
Yes — the iPhone Mini was designed to be a compact version of the standard iPhone, offering almost identical features and performance but with a smaller screen. Where the regular iPhone featured a 6.1-inch display, the iPhone Mini came in at 5.4 inches.
It wasn’t a “budget” phone or a lower-end model — just a smaller one. For users who preferred pocket-friendly devices without jumping to the larger Pro Max sizes, the Mini was a perfect fit.
The Mini models included:
- iPhone 12 Mini — released November 2020
- iPhone 13 Mini — released September 2021
By the time the iPhone 15 lineup launched in 2023, the iPhone Mini series was officially discontinued.
Why Did Apple Stop Making the iPhone Mini?
Apple didn’t give a dramatic reason — the answer is simple: sales were much lower than expected.
When the Mini launched, Apple tested whether users wanted a smaller flagship iPhone. But the standard model had already grown bigger over the years, and most users felt the 6.1-inch size was compact enough.
Meanwhile, larger models like the iPhone Plus and Pro Max were thriving, showing a clear trend toward bigger displays.
So Apple made the practical decision not to continue producing Mini units that weren’t selling — even though the device had a loyal niche fan base.
Is There an iPhone 16 Mini?
Not exactly — but Apple has introduced something that fills a similar gap.
The iPhone 16e, expected to be Apple’s new “essential” model, is designed as a modern replacement for both the Mini and the older SE series. It’s smaller than the standard iPhone 16 and positioned as a more affordable option without being a “Mini” in name.
It’ll be interesting to see whether the iPhone 16e lasts longer than the Mini, or whether it ends up with a similarly short two-year cycle.
If you're comparing older iPhones too, check out our Should I Buy the iPhone 11 in 2025? guide.
The iPhone Mini may be gone from Apple’s lineup, but if you still love small smartphones, we’ve got a range of compact refurbished options available on our website. Explore the full selection and find the right fit for your hands — and your pocket.
