Is Apple Ignoring Millions of Users by Killing the iPhone Mini?

When Bigger Isn’t Better: A Frustrated User’s Plea for Smaller iPhones
Robert L. Maronic’s open letter to Tim Cook isn’t just a rant—it’s a wake-up call. After returning an iPhone 16e due to hand pain and battling slippery cases and billing errors, his story exposes a growing divide between Apple’s design choices and users with accessibility needs. Are millions being left behind? Let’s dive in.

📱 The Problem: One-Size-Fits-None iPhones

• Ergonomic Exclusion: Maronic returned his iPhone 16e because its size aggravated his arthritis and carpal tunnel. He’s not alone—many users, especially women and those with smaller hands, rely on compact models like the iPhone SE or 13 mini, which Apple discontinued despite their cult following.
• Slippery by Design? Apple’s silicone cases, once grippy, now feel “silky” and unsafe. Maronic resorted to DIY fixes—gluing sandpaper to his case—to prevent drops. He suspects cost-cutting or manufacturing flaws in China.
• Billing Black Hole⚠️: After returning $1,000+ in products, Goldman Sachs (Apple Card partner) still charged him $22.58. Ten support calls later, the issue remains unresolved, threatening his credit score.

✅ Proposed Solutions: Can Apple Course-Correct?

• Revive Compact Models✅: Reintroduce iPhone SE or 13 mini sizes for the 50%+ of users needing smaller devices. Maronic argues this could retain millions of customers.
• Fix the Grip✅: Return silicone cases to their textured, pre-2020 design. No more sandpaper hacks.
• Overhaul Billing Partnerships✅: Address systemic issues with Goldman Sachs to prevent phantom charges.

🚧 Challenges: Why Apple Might Not Budge

• Market Trends vs. Niche Needs⚠️: Larger screens dominate for video and gaming. Analysts claim compact phones make up <10% of sales.
• Supply Chain Complexities⚠️: Producing multiple sizes complicates manufacturing. The iPhone 16e’s “e” model already targets budget buyers—adding mini variants could dilute profits.
• Third-Party Partner Risks⚠️: Goldman Sachs’ handling of Apple Card disputes may be beyond Apple’s direct control.

💡 Final Thoughts: A Test of Inclusivity
Apple’s “think different” ethos is clashing with real-world accessibility needs. Success hinges on:

• 📈 Proving compact iPhones can be profitable, not just niche
• 🤝 Pressuring partners like Goldman Sachs to fix billing transparency
• 🎨 Balancing sleek design with practical usability

Is Apple willing to prioritize inclusivity over incremental screen size? Share your thoughts.

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Sources: Robert L. Maronic. Open Letter To Apple CEO Tim Cook, May 26, 2025. https://www.theroanokestar.com/2025/05/26/robert-l-maronic-open-letter-to-apple-ceo-tim-cook/