Currently, the only way to experience Apple Intelligence features on an iPhone is through the iPhone 15 Pro. However, the iPhone 16 lineup is expected to incorporate these features this fall, and Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman suggests that the upcoming iPhone SE, likely debuting in early 2025, will adopt them as well. This development could make it harder to resist choosing Apple's most affordable phone.
The iPhone SE has traditionally offered a budget-friendly option with decent power, relying on a dated design that harks back to the iPhone 8. This has made its role as Apple’s budget device exceedingly clear. However, rumors hint that the next SE will feature a modern iPhone 14 chassis, moving away from the outdated forehead, chin, and home button design found in pre-iPhone X models. It may even include a 6.1-inch OLED screen.
Given that Apple’s advanced on-device AI features are currently not compatible with the iPhone 15 due to its insufficient power, the next iPhone SE could emerge as both powerful and contemporary.
Meanwhile, the anticipated iPhone 16, set to be announced soon, is expected to showcase additional features like dual cameras and the 15 Pro’s action button, which have not yet been associated with the iPhone SE. The question remains: How significant are these enhancements to everyday users? If the new SE appears like an iPhone 14, offers performance akin to the iPhone 16 series, and maintains its budget-friendly price, will consumers still prefer the extravagant features of pricier models? Time will tell.