- Directs users to new models
Apple has officially announced that it will cease production and sales of three of its smartphone models throughout 2025: the iPhone 14, the iPhone 14 Plus and the third-generation iPhone SE.
The decision is part of the company’s strategy to update its product portfolio, aligning the offer with the latest technological innovations and the new demands of the consumer market. The measure directly impacts millions of users around the world, who will now be encouraged to migrate to more advanced devices, such as the iPhone 16 line and future releases.
The movement, announced in the first quarter of 2025, was already expected by market analysts and follows the traditional life cycle of the company’s products. The iPhone 14 and its Plus variant, launched in 2022, were equipped with the A15 Bionic chip, the same chip present in the iPhone 13 line.
With the discontinuation, Apple seeks to optimize its production line and focus efforts on developing and supporting newer technologies, such as the artificial intelligence capabilities integrated into the operating system and the new A-series processors. The move also raises discussions about the future of software support and upgrade options for current owners of the models that will be discontinued.
Apple’s main justification for withdrawing these models is the natural cycle of technological renewal. The hardware and software advancement present in the iPhone 15 line, which introduced the USB-C connector, the Dynamic Island for all models and the A16 Bionic chip, already made the iPhone 14 less competitive. Manter older models in the catalog could fragment the user experience and make it difficult to implement consistent and secure software support.
By focusing on more modern devices, the company ensures that the majority of its user base can enjoy the full functionality of iOS, including critical security updates and compatibility with new applications that require greater processing power. Além In addition, the discontinuation frees up production capacity for upcoming launches, such as the long-awaited iPhone 17 line, which, according to rumors, could include an “Air” model with an ultra-thin design and significant innovations in its construction.
Consequences for current owners
For those who have a third-generation iPhone 14, 14 Plus or SE, the news does not represent an immediate change in the device’s usability. Apple’s support policy has historically guaranteed operating system updates for a period of five to six years after device launch. Isso means that these models, released in 2022, should continue to receive new versions of iOS until approximately 2027, possibly reaching iOS 20 or 21.
However, the end of official support is approaching. During this period, devices will no longer receive major annual system updates, which means losing access to new features and, eventually, incompatibility with newer versions of popular applications. Security updates, in turn, may continue for another year or two, but the absence of new software features will be the main indication of planned hardware obsolescence.
Alternatives to changing devices
Consumers looking to replace their discontinued iPhones will find several options in the current Apple portfolio. The iPhone 15 line, with its standard and Plus versions, already represents a considerable leap forward, offering improvements to the main camera with a 48 MP sensor, greater energy efficiency and the practicality of the USB-C connector.
For users looking for maximum performance and professional features, the Pro and Pro Max models from the iPhone 16 line are the ideal choices. Equipados with the A18 Pro chip, 120 Hz ProMotion displays and advanced camera systems, these devices are aimed at professional photography, video production and high-performance gaming.
The used and reconditioned market also appears as a viable and more economical alternative. Aparelhos like the iPhone 14 still represent a relevant portion of sales in this segment and can be found in good condition and at more affordable prices. Apple itself offers a certified reconditioning program that guarantees product quality.
Thinking about the public that was loyal to the iPhone SE, the company launched the new iPhone 16e in March 2025. Este model combines the powerful A18 chip with a more competitive price, positioning itself as the brand’s new entry-level device, ideal for those looking for performance and longevity without needing to invest in the most expensive models.
Support and future update schedule
The support lifecycle for discontinued models will follow a predictable schedule based on Apple’s update history. The company offers a considerable window of time for users to plan the transition to a new device without rushing. Manter devices being updated while official support is active is essential to ensure data security and the proper functioning of the device on a day-to-day basis.
The expected timeline for end of support is as follows:
– Final of 2025: Encerramento complete production and official sales in Apple stores and authorized resellers.
– 2026 to 2027: Disponibilização of the last major updates to the iOS operating system, such as iOS 20 and possibly iOS 21.
– From 2028: Fim likely of security updates, marking the definitive end of software support for these models.
Market scenarios and impact on sales
The withdrawal of the iPhone 14 and SE (3rd generation) models will have repercussions that go beyond consumers. Fabricantes of accessories, such as covers and protective films, will have to adjust their production lines to focus on the latest models. Varejistas, in turn, will need to manage the remaining stock, possibly offering discounts to liquidate the last units.
This is a similar effect to what occurred in 2023, when the discontinuation of the iPhone 13 boosted the pre-owned market by around 20%, a pattern that is likely to be repeated.
In the global economic scenario, Apple maintains its dominant position, holding approximately 20% of the smartphone market in 2024. The strategy of discontinuing intermediate models strengthens the production of premium devices, such as the Pro versions, which generate higher profit margins. In the last quarter of 2024, the iPhone Pro line was responsible for 60% of the company’s iPhone division’s total revenue, reinforcing the success of this approach focused on high-value-added products.
Practical recommendations for users
To make the most of discontinued iPhones, it is important to adopt some practices that can extend the useful life and safety of the devices. Ações Proactive actions are essential to maintain functionality and ensure a smooth transition to a new device in the future. The main recommendation is to keep the iOS operating system always updated to the latest version available, ensuring protection against security vulnerabilities and performance improvements. Outro point of attention is to monitor the health of the battery, which tends to degrade over time; If the maximum capacity is below 80%, considering replacement by an authorized technical assistance center can restore the device’s autonomy and performance. Finally, it is interesting to evaluate the sale or exchange of the device before its market value drops drastically, taking advantage of trade-in programs offered by Apple and retailers.
The discontinuation of older models paves the way for the innovations that Apple plans for 2025 and beyond. Rumores on the iPhone 17 line indicates the possibility of an “Air” model, with a lighter and thinner design, in addition to significant advances in the integration of artificial intelligence resources with the Apple Intelligence. The company is also preparing to launch iOS 19, which will be presented at Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June 2025, with a focus on personalization, privacy and performance optimization. With more than 300 million iPhones sold between 2022 and 2024, Apple continues to invest in technologies such as augmented reality and enhanced 5G connectivity, solidifying its ecosystem and vision for the future of mobile computing.