Next iPhone SE Might Have An Unexpected Name Change

The iPhone SE 4, a much-anticipated addition to the iPhone SE family, has stirred up excitement despite minimal information being available about the device. Recently, an intriguing rumor has surfaced suggesting that the next iPhone SE may actually be termed the iPhone 16E.

This rumor originated in mid-December from a somewhat obscure source on Weibo, not widely recognized in the United States. However, renowned tipster Majin Bu has since supported this information with a recent post on X.

Bu also confirmed the new color options for the iPhone, which will be available in black and white. Surprisingly, the popular red shade will not be offered. This revelation prompted various users on X to question the limited color selection and speculate about the possible reasons for the name alteration.

According to my sources, the new iPhone launching in 2025 won’t be the iPhone SE 4, but will instead be called the iPhone 16E. It is expected to have a design similar to the iPhone 14, featuring an OLED display and an action button. Available colors will include white and… link

— Majin Bu (@MajinBuOfficial) December 31, 2024

While the new naming convention is yet to be officially verified, there are several reasons Apple might choose to step away from the SE designation. One major factor could be the integration of improved AI capabilities; this upcoming model is expected to function seamlessly with Apple’s AI features, while the iPhone 15 will still be available. By labeling it the iPhone 16E, Apple positions this phone as part of the next generation, distancing it from being perceived purely as a budget option, despite its performance potentially surpassing many flagship models released just a few years ago.

Images shared by Bu align with previous reports about the design of the iPhone SE 4, indicating it will share similar aesthetics with the iPhone 14, particularly by omitting the Home button present in earlier versions. Nonetheless, it remains unclear how the charging will be handled; while some suggest it might still utilize a Lightning connector, it seems more plausible that Apple will adapt to the ongoing shift towards USB-C in accordance with European regulations, a notion supported by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman in his Power On newsletter.

As it stands, it’s too soon to draw any firm conclusions about this upcoming device. Its launch is not expected until March or later, leaving ample opportunity for additional information to emerge before its release.