Apple iPhone 16E or iPhone SE 4: Report reignites debate over upcoming budget iPhone

A few recent tidbits shared by insiders stated that the upcoming iPhone SE 4 might not carry the SE branding at all, and will instead be called the iPhone 16E. Those rumors were quickly shot down by other tipster. Yet, recent statements made by reliable tipster Mark Gurman have seemingly rekindled speculation, although no concrete evidence exists for now.

Citing Tim Cook's reveal of Apple's February 19 event - or press release - Mark Gurman noted that Tim Cook specifically mentioned a "new member" of the Apple family is about to make its debut, which according to Mark, indicates that the upcoming budget iPhone will carry an entirely new branding, making it a new addition to Apple's lineup and not merely a generational upgrade for an existing device.

Of course, it is entirely possible that Tim Cook was referring to a device that is not an iPhone. The event is also rumored to include a revamped AirTag, and perhaps even low-end iPads - although there are no confirmations as of this writing. Regardless, it is extremely likely that a budget iPhone is indeed arriving next week, expected to boast a 6.1-inch OLED display, A18 SoC, 48 MP single-camera, and Face ID support. Whether the device will be dubbed the iPhone SE 4, iPhone 16E, or something else entirely, remains to be seen. For a detailed analysis of all the leaks we have gathered so far, do check out our Leak Lounge roundup for the iPhone SE 4.

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