Apple’s long-anticipated wait for the launch of the new version of the iPhone SE seems to be coming to an end. Last week, the company’s CEO, Tim Cook, teased the launch date in a tweet.
Get ready to meet the newest member of the family.
Wednesday, February 19. #AppleLaunch pic.twitter.com/0ML0NfMedu— Tim Cook (@tim_cook) February 13, 2025
Apple originally planned to debut the device on its website rather than hosting a press event, as it does for more high-profile launches. But each time the plans shifted, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman kept us all in the loop.
New iPhone SE is still imminent and should be announced by next week, when the company is holding product briefings. Tomorrow there’s a smaller announcement. For Friday, Apple Vision Pro reps are reaching out to press about an announcement to come. M4 MacBook Air within weeks. https://t.co/UabWO0shjY
— Mark Gurman (@markgurman) February 12, 2025
Apple is also reportedly readying an Apple Vision Pro announcement, as well as a new MacBook Air with its M4 chip in the weeks ahead.
Read more: Apple Vision Pro, 1 Year On: The Future Needs to Hurry Up
A representative for Apple did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
The move to unveil an updated SE lineup would be part of a greater effort to attract new customers, particularly those who don’t already use an iPhone.
Watch this: iPhone SE 4 vs. iPhone 17 Air Rumors: Does Size Matter Over Cost?
The update would mark a significant shift for Apple’s entry-level iPhone, which debuted in 2016. The new model, reportedly codenamed V59, is expected to introduce Apple’s first in-house cellular modem, replacing Qualcomm’s hardware, and add Face ID for the first time — finally removing the physical home button, according to Bloomberg. It’s also likely to feature Apple’s A18 chip, which powers the iPhone 16, to better support the company’s new AI software, Apple Intelligence.
The update comes at a time when Apple recently reported a 1% dip in iPhone sales during the holiday quarter, failing to meet expectations. A more advanced yet still affordable iPhone SE could help Apple compete in key markets such as China and India, where budget-friendly smartphones with premium features continue to gain traction.
The current iPhone SE starts at $429 in the US, significantly less than the $799 entry price for an iPhone 16.
Watch this: The iPhone SE Is Back! Apple Expected To Launch a New Version Soon
