The new iPhone SE 4 is due to be released on February 19, 2025. But Apple CEO Tim Cook's tweet has now sparked speculation that the device will be released under a different name. Instead of the iPhone SE 4, it could be launched as the iPhone 16E. There were already rumors at the beginning of the year about a possible name change, which were initially considered to be of little credibility. Now a report from Bloomberg suggests that these claims are not unfounded. In addition to the name change, there are also numerous technical innovations on the table. The iPhone SE was previously known for relying on older technology and was particularly convincing due to its low price. But this time it could be different.
The SE series has been around since 2016 and has established itself as a low-cost alternative to the more expensive iPhone models. So far, Apple has stuck to the name, although the devices have been modernized over the years. Beginning of January 2025 claimed a leak that Apple would rename the iPhone SE 4 to iPhone 16E. This information was initially doubted because the source was not considered particularly reliable. But now confirmed Bloomberg reported the rumor. The reason for this is a tweet from Tim Cook in which he announced the start of sales for February 19. His wording caused discussions. He wrote:
Get ready for the newest member of the family.
That sounds like a completely new device. Since the iPhone SE has been around for nine years, it's unlikely that Cook is just referring to the next generation of the series. Rather, the name change could indicate that Apple wants to position the SE model differently.
A modern iPhone SE: What changes does the new model bring?
The iPhone SE has so far been a cheaper alternative to the current iPhones and used older hardware. This time, that seems to be changing.
design and display
In previous SE models, Apple has reused older designs, for example the iPhone 8 case for the iPhone SE 2020. The iPhone SE 4 is now expected to look similar to the iPhone 14. This means:
- An edgeless display without a home button
- Face ID instead of Touch ID
- A more modern design that is more closely aligned with current models
Previous rumors suggested that the device might have a Dynamic Island, but this speculation has since been refuted.
processor and performance
In order for the iPhone SE 4 to keep up with the current iPhone range, it needs a powerful processor. Since Apple plans to use more artificial intelligence in its devices, the device must be equipped accordingly. According to reports, the iPhone SE 4 will be equipped with a processor that supports Apple Intelligence. Both the A17 Pro and the A18 chip are possible. In addition, the device will need more RAM to enable the new AI functions.
price and market positioning
A key factor in the success of previous SE models has been their low price. The iPhone SE has always been the most affordable iPhone on the market. The question now is whether Apple can maintain this price when equipping the device with more modern technology. If the iPhone SE 4 does indeed become the iPhone 16E, this could mean that Apple no longer sees it as a budget option but as a regular model within the iPhone range. This in turn could affect pricing.
Will there be annual updates in the future?
If Apple renames the iPhone SE 4 to iPhone 16E, this could have far-reaching consequences for the entire product line. The previous SE models were only updated every few years. Integration into the regular iPhone range could mean that Apple provides the device with a new model every year. An iPhone 17E in 2026 would then be a logical consequence.
Is the iPhone 16E coming? Cupertino leaves room for speculation
So far there is no official confirmation of the name change but the evidence is increasing.
- Tim Cook's tweet suggests it's more than just a new SE generation
- Bloomberg confirms that a name change is on the cards
- The new model is more modern, more powerful and comes closer to the regular iPhones
If Apple really does make the iPhone SE 4 the iPhone 16E, that could mean the end of the previous SE strategy. It remains to be seen whether it will succeed in combining modern technology with a low price. If the iPhone SE continues to be called the iPhone 16E, that could indicate that Apple is integrating it into a regular update cycle. The official unveiling on February 19 will show whether the name change will become reality and which direction Apple is taking with this model. (Image: Apple)
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