Apple is gearing up for its latest product launch, introducing what CEO Tim Cook calls the “newest member of the family.” While Apple hasn’t officially disclosed what’s coming, widespread speculation—including my own—suggests it’s the new iPhone SE. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the event, including the timing and location. Additionally, recent rumors hint at new accessories being unveiled alongside the phone.
Apple iPhone SE: What Will It Look Like?
While reports suggest it will primarily follow the design of the iPhone 14, rumors indicate it may feature only a single camera. This speculation appears to be supported by a transparent case recently spotted by Macworld.
The case features a horizontal lozenge-shaped cutout in the top corner, seemingly wide enough for two lenses. However, considering that the cutout also needs space for a flash, it suggests otherwise. This detail reinforces the expectation that, like all previous iPhone SE models, the new iPhone will have a single rear camera.
With the front of the phone expected to feature Face ID with dual lenses, this would make it the first iPhone to have more cameras on the front than on the back.
While the case isn’t definitive proof that the manufacturer has the design exactly right, it notably lacks a slot for the Camera Control feature found in the iPhone 16 series.
The case includes a cutout for the mute switch, though it’s unclear whether it could also accommodate an Action Button, similar to the one on the iPhone 16.
Apple iPhone SE: The Unveiling
When and where: Wednesday, Feb. 19 by press release
Tim Cook confirmed last week that today marks the unveiling of the new product. However, with no press invitations sent out, a major launch event seems unlikely.
Last week, Tim Cook confirmed that the new product would be unveiled today. However, the absence of press invitations suggests that a large-scale launch event is unlikely.
Regarding the timing: press release announcements typically occur at 5 a.m. Pacific / 8 a.m. Eastern / 1 p.m. U.K., while major events like WWDC are usually held at 10 a.m. Pacific / 1 p.m. Eastern / 6 p.m. U.K. So, the announcement is expected to fall somewhere within that timeframe.
However, it’s worth noting that Cook announced this on X at 8 a.m. Pacific / 11 a.m. Eastern / 4 p.m. U.K., so it might be wise to keep an eye out around that time as well.
At the event, we’ll get all the details about what’s coming, including the sale date (though you can find that information below) and the price, which is expected to range between $479 and $499, though it could be higher.
Apple iPhone SE: Pre-Orders Begin
When and where: Friday, Feb. 21, 5 a.m. Pacific
This could change, but if Apple follows the same approach as with the iPhone 16, pre-orders are likely to begin at 5 a.m. Pacific / 8 a.m. Eastern / 1 p.m. U.K.
For the iPhone 16, Apple allowed customers to get a head start by selecting the model they wanted the night before (which would be Thursday, February 20) and saving their shopping bag.
Apple iPhone SE: First Reviews Appear
When and where: Tuesday, Feb. 25 or Wednesday, Feb. 26
A select group of reviewers have access to the iPhone before its general release, with the embargo lifting anywhere from one to three days prior to the sale date.
The typical release time is 6 a.m. Pacific / 9 a.m. Eastern / 2 p.m. U.K., though this can occasionally vary.
Apple iPhone SE: Onsale date
When and where: Friday, Feb. 28, 8 a.m. local time
I’m absolutely confident this will be the release date, although it won’t be confirmed until the product is revealed. In his Power On newsletter on Sunday, February 16, Mark Gurman stated, “Apple is preparing to announce the phone on February 19 and have it available for sale before the end of the month.”
I’m completely certain this will be the release date, though it won’t be officially confirmed until the product is unveiled. In his Power On newsletter on Sunday, February 16, Mark Gurman mentioned, “Apple is set to announce the phone on February 19 and make it available for purchase before the month ends.”
Phone sales start at 8 a.m. local time, meaning customers in Australia will have the opportunity to purchase the phone several hours before those in Los Angeles.
Apple iPhone SE: What’s In A Name?
Cook’s statement is being understood to suggest that the upcoming product will have a new name to align with the iPhone 16 family. Perhaps iPhone 16e? This could make sense, as it would link the phone to the latest iPhone series. It seems fitting, especially since this phone appears to be different from any previous iPhone SE model.
I’ll update this post as more details are confirmed, so be sure to check back.
