A group of people gathers around a table displaying iPhones at an Apple Store in Pittsburgh on Wednesday, January 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar) – Associated Press
Apple is set to unveil a fresh version of its budget-friendly iPhone SE, bringing modern features to the entry-level smartphone. The redesigned device, expected to be announced as early as next week, will resemble the iPhone 14 and introduce Apple Intelligence, the company’s advanced AI software.
Unlike past releases, Apple is unlikely to hold a major event for the launch, opting instead for an online announcement. This move aligns with the company's usual strategy for lower-profile products.
A Long-Awaited Makeover
First introduced in 2016, the iPhone SE has remained an affordable alternative to Apple's premium models. However, the current version, released in 2022, now appears outdated. It still has a home button and lacks Face ID, making it the last iPhone to feature Apple's older design.
The upcoming SE model will feature a larger display, a sleeker design similar to recent iPhones, and a more powerful A18 chip. It will also mark Apple's first device to use an in-house cellular modem, replacing Qualcomm’s component.
Signs of an Imminent Launch
Apple retail stores across the U.S. have seen dwindling stock of the current iPhone SE, a typical indicator that a new version is on the way. Some configurations, such as the red 256GB model, are already back-ordered until March. Similarly, inventory of the iPhone 14 and 14 Plus is running low, signalling an overhaul across Apple's lineup.
Apple has already discontinued the iPhone SE and iPhone 14 in the European Union due to new regulations mandating USB-C charging ports. The updated SE will include this feature, ensuring compliance with EU standards and enabling its return to that market.
Pricing and Market Strategy
The existing iPhone SE starts at $429, significantly cheaper than Apple’s flagship models. While the price of the updated SE may rise slightly due to its improved features, it will likely remain competitive with similar mid-range models from Samsung and Google.
Apple is betting on the new SE to drive sales, particularly in markets like China and India, where demand for affordable yet powerful smartphones is high. The company’s iPhone sales dropped 1% during the holiday season, and its revenue in China fell by 11% last quarter. The SE could help Apple regain momentum in these key regions.
More Apple Products on the Horizon
Apple’s iPhone revamp isn’t stopping with the SE. The company is planning major updates to the iPhone 17 lineup later this year, including an ultra-thin model. Additionally, Apple is preparing to release the PowerBeats Pro 2 earbuds with a built-in heart rate monitor—its first wearable with this feature.
Other upcoming products include new MacBook Air models featuring the powerful M4 chip, updated iPad Air versions, and a smart home hub with a display.
As Apple continues to refine its product lineup, the refreshed iPhone SE is expected to be a crucial player in expanding its market reach while maintaining its legacy of innovation.
