Apple's cheapest iPhone could be launched this week
What's the story
A fresh Apple Store leak has confirmed that the company's upcoming 'affordable' smartphone would go by the name of 'iPhone SE'. We have been hearing rumors of this device since last year, but now its launch seems imminent. In fact, a report from 9to5Mac suggests that pre-orders could begin this weekend itself. Here's all you need to know about it.
Leak
Apple Store leaks 4.7-inch iPhone SE name
Even though Apple's affordable iPhone has been in the news for months, questions have remained over its name. Now, the answer appears to be here; the Apple Store recently listed a screen protector for the '4.7-inch iPhone SE, iPhone 7, and iPhone 8,' seemingly confirming that the upcoming device would be an 'SE' model, with a design similar to the other two existing iPhones.
Hardware
Upgraded hardware for seamless performance
Despite the old-school Touch ID-integrated design, the upcoming iPhone SE model is rumored to feature the latest capabilities, including the A13 Bionic chipset which comes with the iPhone 11 line of flagships. Beyond that, the device would also offer the latest iOS 13 features like NFC scanning, Apple Arcade, and augmented reality capabilities. There is no word on the camera capabilities, however, thus far.
Other model
Bigger 5.5-inch model rumored earlier
Along with the 4.7-inch model, there are also some rumors of a 5.5-inch variant of the same device, which makes sense given that iPhone 7 and 8 also had a larger variant. However, as of now, there is no way to be completely sure about its development; the 'SE' screen protector listing also had no references to a 5.5-inch model.
Launch
Launch with three storage options
As for the launch, a highly trusted 9to5Mac reader suggests that the phone might debut as soon as today (April 3) and go on pre-order soon after that. They suggest that the device might come in three storage options - 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB - with prices starting at around $399, which is the same as that of 2016's original iPhone SE.