Apple iPhone SE 2: Could Apple's next US$399 "budget" handset be launched as the iPhone 9?

A cheaper iPhone without Face ID, a design reminiscent of the iPhone 8, a classic home button, Touch ID and an A13 Bionic SoC, what is not to like? Apparently, Apple believes that such a smartphone could sell millions of units and, plans to launch it next March. While we have reported on speculation concerning the device several times in the last few months, a new rumour has sparked debate about an iPhone SE successor again.

Initially rumoured to be called the iPhone SE 2, Japanese website Macotakara now claims that Apple has a different name in mind for its next US$399 handset. Citing an 'informed source', Macotakara states that the iPhone SE 2 will be called the iPhone 9, principally because of its resemblance to the iPhone 8.

Macotakara is known for being a well-informed website, so we would not just cast this aside for now. However, the website does list it as a rumour, so perhaps its unsure of the authenticity of this one. While calling the device the iPhone 9 would make sense if it were an iPhone 8 successor, Apple would come into trouble if it plans to release a few more budget and cheaper handsets. While the iPhone 9s would be an obvious name for an iPhone 9 successor, what would follow the iPhone 9s? The iPhone 10 is out, strictly speaking. Perhaps, the iPhone 9 is another one-off for the company to fill a gap in the market?