We’ve been hearing rumors about the next-generation iPhone SE – Apple’s entry-level smartphone – for a few months now. However, it appears that the iPhone SE 4 will not be released, and now analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has reported that Apple is considering canceling or delaying mass production of the new device until 2024.
Apple may postpone or even cancel the production of the iPhone SE 4
Apple “will likely cancel or postpone the mass production plan for the 2024 iPhone SE 4,” according to Kuo on Twitter. Low demand for entry-level and mid-range iPhone models, such as the current third-generation iPhone SE, iPhone 13 mini, and iPhone 14 Plus, according to the analyst, is one of the reasons.
According to multiple reports, Apple has been having trouble selling these iPhone models because they aren’t as appealing as competing devices in the same price range. Even with the supply constraints that have been affecting the Pro lineup, the iPhone 14 Pro models have the highest demand this year.
But that isn’t the only reason Apple might reconsider releasing a new iPhone SE. Kuo also stated on Twitter that upgrading the device to a full-screen design will result in significant production cost increases. The current iPhone SE model retains the same design as the iPhone 8, with a 4.7-inch LCD panel, a Home button, and Touch ID.
In comparison, the iPhone SE 3 costs $429 in the United States, while the iPhone 12 – the cheapest model in the lineup with a full-screen design – costs $599.
This scenario is supported by additional rumors
Kuo’s report backs up previous iPhone SE 4 rumors. According to YouTuber Jon Prosser, the new iPhone SE will have the same form factor as the iPhone XR and a 6.1-inch Liquid Retina LCD as the iPhone XR. However, according to analyst Ross Young, Apple has not yet decided on the display size or technology for the iPhone SE 4, implying that the device will not be ready for a 2023 release.
Another thing to keep in mind is that, as Kuo pointed out, reducing “unnecessary new product development” will also assist Apple in dealing with the challenges of the global economic recession in 2023.
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