The next iPhone SE could be an excellent mid-range phone.
We want to include a Mac Mini in the iPhone product lineup.
Currently, endless debates can be held on the advantages of iOS compared to Android; however, there is one area where the Android ecosystem currently excels: the availability of truly recommendable mid-range phones. These phones are not limited to basic options that are only deemed acceptable in extreme situations, as has been the case with the iPhone SE in recent years.
The iPhone SE, originally released in 2016, offered an A9 chip in an older design at a price of $399, compared to $649 for the iPhone 6S. Although this model can still be enjoyed, the options have remained stagnant. The latest version, which began selling in 2022, is offered at $429 and, while it includes good dust and water resistance, a competent camera in good lighting conditions, and wireless charging, it has many shortcomings that make it difficult to recommend. The screen is relatively small, the LCD technology is outdated, and the bezels are too thick. Additionally, the basic storage capacity is only 64GB, and the photo quality in low light conditions is poor due to the lack of a night mode. Selling a phone in 2024 without a night mode seems unusual.
Unlike the iPhone SE, mid-range Android phones have significantly improved. For example, the Google Pixel 8A positions itself as an excellent option at $499, offering water and dust resistance with an IP67 rating, a modern OLED display, a standout camera, 128GB of storage, and seven years of operating system updates. Samsung has also released good models in this segment, although the recent Galaxy A55 didn't make it to the U.S. However, the Galaxy A35, available for $399, offers attractive features such as an OLED screen and the same IP67 resistance.
Expectations are positive for a fourth-generation iPhone SE that could launch in 2025, as it is rumored to include an OLED display, a more modern design, and sufficient processing power and RAM. An increase in the base storage would also be welcome, considering that offering only 64GB in 2025 is inappropriate. If the price were to reach $499, the new SE could present itself as an attractive option. Even if it does not meet all expectations, an improvement in design and an increase in base storage could be decisive. Apple has room to simplify the iPhone 16 and create a mid-range model that continues to capture the most desired aspects of the iPhone while eliminating features like the Action Button or the Dynamic Island.
In the market, the trend towards consuming more expensive models can be attributed to the lack of affordable options. The price gap has led many people to opt for costlier choices, such as the iPhone 16 Pro, especially when the monthly cost of a new phone becomes manageable through financing.
The recent update to the Mac Mini also provides hope for the future of the iPhone SE. This model, powered by the new M4 chip, has been regarded as one of the best value options in the Mac line, featuring an improved base configuration and a more attractive design. If Apple applies a similar approach to its iPhone line, it could offer a truly competitive mid-range phone in the future.
