Update | Tipster may have had a hands-on with iPhone 16E
January 11, 2025 07:45 GMT update: The original article wasn't clear enough, warranting a full rewrite. Please excuse us for that.
The iPhone SE 4 is now rumored to be released as the iPhone 16E. Like earlier iPhone SE models, affordability will be the main focus here. The last time Apple launched a SE model was back in 2022, and the successor model is expected to arrive with significant changes, updates and upgrades.
So. A reputable tipster Digital Chat Station claims:
The iPhone SE4/16E should be launching soon. Recently, I managed to handle the real production materials. The exterior seems fine.
This may well be taken to interpret that the serial leaker has had a brief hands-on experience with a very high-quality dummy unit or perhaps even an actually working, final-design unit. The unclarity stems from how the leaker's message is worded.
物料 is an all-encompassing term for everything from material to semi-finished to finished products - Peter Zhuang, Notebookcheck
The Weibo post also sheds light on some very important specs. If it's to be believed, the iPhone 16E features a 6.06-inch LTPS OLED panel with an FHD+ resolution and a 60Hz refresh rate. The display is also said to have a notch housing Face ID technology. The phone is widely believed to resemble the now two generations old iPhone 14.
The upcoming affordable iPhone is tipped to be powered by the Apple A18 SoC, which also powers the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus models. Previous rumors stated 8GB of RAM for the phone, and with the inclusion of the A18 chip, it is likely that the iPhone 16E will support Apple Intelligence.
The phone has a single rear camera sensor, according to the leaker. Apart from that, iPhone allegedly features a flat metal frame and has a water resistance rating. Lastly, the leaker claims it will be the cheapest iPhone ever; previous rumors suggested it would be priced at $499.
