Apple is reportedly gearing up to launch a new iPhone SE and PowerBeats Pro 2 on February 11. According to Bloomberg, the announcement is expected to be relatively low-key, as the company has yet to issue invitations for a dedicated in-person or virtual event.
A fresh take on the iPhone SE
The upcoming iPhone SE will mark the fourth generation of Appleโs budget-friendly handset and the first update since 2022. The last iteration, released alongside the iPhone 13 series, was priced at US$429 and featured a design reminiscent of the iPhone 8, including a Touch ID fingerprint scanner. However, that model has already been discontinued in the European Union due to its use of Appleโs proprietary Lightning port, which fails to comply with the Common Charger Directive.
A major change in the new SE is the shift to a USB-C port, aligning with Appleโs broader transition away from Lightning connectors. The device is expected to adopt a design similar to the iPhone 14, released just months after the last SE model. This refresh could also signal the end of the Touch ID home button in favour of Face ID biometric authentication.
Reports suggest that the fourth-generation iPhone SE will support Apple Intelligence, the companyโs upcoming suite of AI-powered features. It is also rumoured to be Appleโs first handset to feature an in-house modem, marking a move away from reliance on third-party chip manufacturers such as Qualcomm.
Apple is expected to see strong demand for the iPhone SE outside the United States, particularly in China and Indiaโtwo of the worldโs largest smartphone markets. China has long been a crucial region for Apple, but the company has faced increasing competition from domestic manufacturers. During Appleโs most recent earnings report, it was revealed that iPhone sales in China had dropped 11% year-over-year, with brands like Huawei capitalising on the gap left by Appleโs struggles. The absence of Apple Intelligence in China also limits the companyโs growth in the region.
PowerBeats Pro 2 to join the lineup
Alongside the iPhone SE, Apple is expected to unveil the PowerBeats Pro 2. The Beats-branded Bluetooth earbuds will arrive nearly six years after the first-generation model. The new headphones are rumoured to be Appleโs first with built-in heart rate tracking, reinforcing the companyโs focus on expanding its health and wellness product lineup beyond the Apple Watch.
Whatโs next for Apple?
Later this year, Apple is anticipated to introduce M4 refreshes for the MacBook Air and iPad Air, along with a new addition to its smart home product range. The upcoming home hub is expected to feature a built-in display and could mark Appleโs first steps into consumer robotics. However, these products are not likely to be part of the February 11 announcement.
