Earlier in the month, some reports started surfacing suggesting that the upcoming iPhone SE, set to launch this spring, may not carry the ‘iPhone SE’ title after all. New information indicates it could be branded as ‘iPhone 16E’. Though it may seem like an odd notion, it actually fits quite well with what we’ve learned about the iPhone SE 4 thus far.
Rumors Surrounding the iPhone SE 4
For a quick overview, here’s what we anticipate with the iPhone SE 4:
This could represent the most significant upgrade in the history of the iPhone SE line. Apple has not altered the form factor since the second-generation model launched back in 2020. The iPhone SE 3, released in 2022, kept the same design while introducing the A15 Bionic chip and 5G capabilities. The iPhone SE 4 will mark the first considerable redesign in five years.
Is It Too Good to Be True?
While I have no doubt about the validity of the iPhone SE 4 rumors, I remain cautious about the suggested pricing. Many speculate that the iPhone SE 4 could retail for $499, but that idea doesn’t resonate with me. Apple currently offers the iPhone 14 at $599, and the iPhone 15 at $699.
It’s hard to fathom how this new device, which will feature components from both models, alongside an even more advanced chipset, could be priced significantly lower.
Two factors that might enable Apple to reduce costs for the iPhone SE 4 include:
- Introduction of new in-house modems, allowing Apple to avoid using Qualcomm’s more expensive options
- Potentially opting out of Samsung OLED displays and using more cost-effective panels from BOE and LG
These two elements are among the priciest in the iPhone’s assembly. It’s feasible that Apple could offer the iPhone SE 4 at $499 and still maintain reasonable profit margins. However, the larger question remains: would they?
The ‘iPhone 16E’ Mark in the Lineup
If the iPhone SE 4 were to retail at $499, it would be $300 less than the iPhone 16 priced at $799. For those two devices, the $300 price difference would only yield features like Dynamic Island, an Action Button, and an ultra-wide camera. To me, this suggests that the iPhone SE 4 would indeed be an incredible bargain relative to the iPhone 16.
This is where the naming ‘iPhone 16E’ seems logical. Opting out of the SE nomenclature would allow them to price the device at $599 without facing significant consumer backlash. Furthermore, the iPhone 15 is likely to remain available after the debut of the iPhone SE 4/16E. Changing the name to 16E would effectively communicate that the iPhone 15 is an older model, lacking Apple’s latest features, yet sold at a higher price.
The iPhone SE has historically been perceived as the more compact option, but with a display size of 6.1 inches, it’s a stretch to label it as “small.”
“iPhone 16E” would present a clearer designation for consumers, indicating that this device belongs to the present model lineup. This could enhance sales, as the current SE branding can obscure its age unless one does thorough research. Apple could also consider using years instead of generation numbers to alleviate potential confusion.
Conclusion
Personally, I find the branding of “iPhone 16E” appealing. The term “iPhone SE” has always carried a certain low-cost connotation that may have deterred potential buyers. With the first redesign of the iPhone SE in five years, this presents an excellent opportunity to reshape public perception of the product.
What are your thoughts on the “iPhone 16E” speculation? We’d love to hear your feedback in the comments.
Check out my favorite iPhone accessories on Amazon:
Follow Michael on: X/Twitter, Bluesky, Instagram
FTC: We utilize income-generating auto affiliate links. More info.
