Apple’s next iPhone is expected to be unveiled at a meeting this month – but it may not be exactly what you’re expecting.
The new phone is what many people are calling the iPhone SE – and shouldn’t be confused with the iPhone 7. It’s cheaper and smaller than most people are anticipating.
Here’s what you should know:
Release Date
Widespread rumours say that the SE will be unveiled on Tuesday March 15, with the event also showcasing the new 9.7 inch iPad Pro and Apple Watch 2.
New reports, however, suggest that it may be pushed back to March 21 because of the conflict between Apple and the FBI.
Name
The new iPhone is rumoured to be a smaller, cheaper device sold alongside Apple’s iPhone 6s and 6s Plus models. In principle, it could be compared to the 5c.
It was suggested the smartphone would be called the iPhone 6c or 5se, but it’s now believed Apple has decided to call it the iPhone SE – standing for ‘special edition’, The Mirror reports.
Screen Size
Apple sells the 4.7 inch iPhone 6s, the 5.5 inch 6s Plus and the 4-inch iPhone 5s.
Rumour has it the iPhone SE will be a replacement phone for the 5s, and will have a 4-inch screen like its predecessor, according to drawings claiming to be leaked images of the device.
Design
Rumours have circulated suggesting that the iPhone SE will look identical to the 5s, but leaked photos show that the design takes cues from the iPhone 6s and 6s Plus – with curved glass edges and a fingerprint reader.
According to 9to5Mac, the lock button will be moved from the top to the right-hand side of the device, like the iPhone 6.
Specs
According to MacRumours, leaked photos show the components which enable the 3D Touch feature are missing.
It is expected, though, to come in the same colour options as the 6s lineup, with 16GB and 64GB storage options and a slightly larger battery.
Price
The iPhone SE will be significantly cheaper than the 6s and 6s Plus, apparently, and is rumoured to cost between $400-500 (around £280-£350).
This also means a cheaper 5s, which 9to5Mac believe will have a 50 per cent reduction in price.
Looks like a pretty decent phone to us. And the price tag on it is a great bonus!
