Apple is preparing to launch a new iPhone SE and the PowerBeats Pro 2 wireless earbuds, with the official announcement expected on February 11.
Per Bloomberg, the company is not planning a major launch event for these products but will likely unveil them through its website.
What to Expect from the iPhone SE 4
The upcoming iPhone SE will be Apple’s fourth-generation model in the series and an upgrade from previous models, which were last released in 2022.
Unlike the older version, which had a design similar to the iPhone 8, the new SE might resemble the iPhone 14. This means a larger display, slimmer bezels, and the removal of the iconic Touch ID home button in favour of Face ID.
Apple is also expected to switch from the Lightning port to USB-C, aligning with European regulations that require a common charging standard for all mobile devices.
The smartphone may feature a 6.1-inch OLED display, a change from the LCD screens used in earlier models, and a 48MP single-lens rear camera, similar to the one found in the iPhone 14.
Again, the iPhone SE 4 is rumoured to be powered by Apple’s A18 chip, providing better performance than the previous. Storage options may start from 128GB, an upgrade from the 64GB base model seen in the previous generation.
The device is also expected to introduce Apple’s first in-house 5G modem, aiming to reduce dependence on external suppliers like Qualcomm.
A Stronger Push into Emerging Markets
Apple’s budget-friendly SE lineup has historically performed well in countries where premium iPhones are less accessible due to price. The new SE is expected to gain traction in markets like China and India, where Apple has been facing increasing competition from local smartphone brands like Huawei. In its last earnings report, the company revealed that iPhone sales in China had dropped by 11% year-over-year.
PowerBeats Pro 2: A New Addition to Apple’s Wearable Lineup
Alongside the iPhone SE 4, Apple also plans to unveil the PowerBeats Pro 2, a long-awaited update to its premium wireless earbuds. The first-generation PowerBeats Pro was released nearly six years ago, and the new version is expected to come with commendable upgrades.
These include an improved H2 chip for better active noise cancellation, a more compact design, and heart rate monitoring, further integrating Apple’s health-focused technology into its wearable devices. The earbuds will be available in new colour options, including Electric Orange, Jet Black, Quick Sand, and Hyper Purple.
What’s Next for Apple?
Following this launch, Apple is expected to refresh its MacBook Air and iPad Air with the latest M4 chip later this year. There are also reports that the company is working on a new smart home hub with a display, which could be Apple’s entry into consumer robotics. However, these products are not expected to be part of the February 11 announcement.
Apple is going beyond expanding its product lineup to also expanding its presence across international markets. The new iPhone SE 4 and PowerBeats Pro 2 are built for budget-conscious iPhone users to fitness enthusiasts looking for great wireless earbuds.
