iPhone 16E or SE 4? Apple’s Affordable iPhone Gets a Potential Rebrand
Apple’s upcoming budget-friendly iPhone may not carry the expected iPhone SE 4 name after all. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the company is considering a new branding approach, hinting at a fresh identity for the device set to be unveiled on Wednesday, February 19.
A New Name for Apple’s Budget iPhone?
In his latest Power On newsletter, Gurman referenced Apple CEO Tim Cook’s recent social media teaser, in which he described the upcoming device as the “newest member of the family.” This wording suggests that Apple may position the device as an entirely new addition rather than a continuation of the SE lineup.
This aligns with recent leaks indicating that Apple could rebrand the device as iPhone 16E rather than iPhone SE 4. While Gurman did not confirm this naming convention outright, he acknowledged that a new name would make sense given the significant design and feature upgrades the device is set to receive. Possible alternatives include iPhone 16e, iPhone 16 SE, or another variation, depending on Apple’s final branding decision.
Upgraded Design and Features
Unlike previous SE models, which repurposed older iPhone designs, Apple’s new budget iPhone is expected to feature a 6.1-inch OLED display, an iPhone 14-style body, and Face ID for enhanced security. Additionally, it will introduce the Action button, a feature currently reserved for higher-end iPhones.
Internally, the device will receive major performance boosts, including:
- A new Apple-designed 5G modem for improved connectivity
- 8GB of RAM for faster multitasking
- The latest A18 chip, the same processor found in the upcoming iPhone 16 series
The inclusion of the A18 chip is a significant departure from Apple’s usual approach of using older processors in its budget lineup. This means the device will likely support Apple Intelligence, providing AI-driven features and flagship-level performance at a much lower price point—expected to be around $500.
The End of the iPhone SE Series?
If Apple officially rebrands the SE model, it would mark the end of the iPhone SE lineup, which has served as Apple’s budget-friendly offering since 2016. The move could signal a shift in Apple’s strategy, bringing its lower-cost iPhone models closer to the flagship lineup in terms of features and branding.
By merging affordability with cutting-edge technology, Apple appears to be broadening its reach, making high-end iPhone experiences more accessible to a wider audience.
Launch Date and Availability
Apple is expected to unveil the new budget iPhone via a press release on Wednesday, February 19. Pre-orders will likely follow soon after, with shipments commencing within weeks.
Stay tuned for more updates as Apple officially announces its latest addition to the iPhone family!
