As 2024 draws to a close, Apple is preparing to discontinue its well-received iPhone SE in several major European markets, making way for an exciting upgrade. Fans of this mid-range iOS device have much to look forward to in the new year, with the introduction of a revamped iPhone SE that promises enhanced capabilities and design improvements.

The Inevitable Transition
Replacing the iPhone SE launched in 2022 was always in the cards for Apple. Under ideal circumstances, Tim Cook and his team would have liked to keep selling the current model for a few more months until the 2025 version was ready. However, a new mandate from the European Union, which requires USB-C to be the universal charging port on consumer electronics, has accelerated these plans.

The Last of Its Kind
The 2022 iPhone SE, along with the iPhone 14 family, represents Apple’s final models to feature the proprietary Lightning charging port. To comply with the new regulations that kick in on January 1, 2025, Apple will halt shipments of these models by the end of December 2024.

Despite strong competition from Samsung’s Galaxy series, the iPhone SE has consistently earned high marks in consumer satisfaction surveys. With the anticipated improvements, Apple expects the next iteration of the iPhone SE to continue impressing users.

Anticipated Enhancements in the New iPhone SE
The upcoming iPhone SE is expected to boast a host of significant upgrades, including the integration of Apple’s cutting-edge A18 processor to support the iOS’ new generative AI suite. This enhancement will align the iPhone SE with Apple’s premium models in terms of performance.

Additionally, to handle the demands of generative AI applications, the new iPhone SE is likely to see an increase in memory capacity. This follows the increase seen in the iPhone 16, launched in September 2024, which improved overall functionality and enabled quicker multitasking.

Looking Ahead
In a conversation with David Phelan of Forbes, Apple CEO Tim Cook shared his enthusiasm for the AI-driven enhancements across Apple’s product line, including the iPhone SE. He noted that artificial intelligence is a “horizontal technology” that simplifies complex tasks and fosters creativity and curiosity.

Despite these technological advances, Apple remains committed to keeping its products affordable. The new iPhone SE aims to bring advanced technology to a broader audience, with a starting price around $430.

What’s Next?
The current iPhone SE will soon be replaced, with its successor slated for launch in the first half of 2025. Apple targets a possible March release, ensuring availability by the Worldwide Developer Conference in June.

These strategic updates aim to not only comply with regulatory requirements but also to enhance user experience, keeping Apple at the cutting edge of the smartphone market.