After years of complaints, inspired by users unable to install iOS updates because of insufficient free space, Apple has finally eliminated the inadequate 16-gigabyte storage tier from its iPhone lineup.

Rather than keeping the entry-level 16-gigabyte iPhone SE in its lineup at a cheaper price, Apple opted to eliminate it entirely on Tuesday, doubling the smallest available size to 32 gigabytes. Despite the increase, the iPhone SE retains the same starting price of $399.

The change brings the iPhone SE in line with both the iPhone 6s and the flagship iPhone 7, all of which come in sizes no smaller than 32 gigabytes. In fact, the jet black and new (Product)Red iPhone 7 models come with a minimum of 128 gigabytes.

Just a few years ago, the company was still selling 8-gigabyte iPhone models in select international markets. But once the company discontinued its low-end iPhone 5c, the 8-gigabyte tier went with it.

Capacities of 16-gigabytes were already eliminated in Apple's iPad lineup. Even before the iPad mini 2 was removed on Tuesday, it came with an entry-level storage size of 32 gigabytes.

Source: appleinsider