Apple is unlikely to release the fourth-generation iPhone SE in 2024, according to Barclays analysts Blayne Curtis and Tom O'Malley.
The analysts said that if Apple decided not to launch a new iPhone SE until after 2024, it could indicate that the company's rumored self-developed 5G modem is not ready yet. This would benefit Qualcomm, which currently supplies 5G modems for Apple's iPhones.
Apple has been preparing to develop its own 5G modem since 2018, and in 2019 acquired the majority of Intel's smartphone modem business. However, it has been reported that the development of Apple's 5G modem has been delayed.
In April of this year, Ming-Chi Kuo said that mass production of Apple basebands will start as early as 2025. This means that even the iPhone 16 series phones launched later next year will continue to use Qualcomm basebands.
Ming-Chi Kuo has previously claimed that the design of the next-generation iPhone SE will be similar to the standard iPhone 14 model released last year. This suggests that the device will feature a 6.1-inch OLED display and Face ID capabilities.
The current iPhone SE was released in March 2022. It is equipped with a 4.7-inch LCD screen, supports Touch ID, 5G, and is also equipped with a 12-megapixel rear camera and A15 Bionic chip. It starts at $429 in the United States.
If Apple does not release a new iPhone SE in 2024, it will be the first time that the company has skipped a year in the iPhone SE lineup. This would be a significant change for Apple, as the iPhone SE has been a popular product for the company.
It remains to be seen whether Apple will be able to release its own 5G modem in time for the 2025 iPhone SE. If not, the company may continue to use Qualcomm basebands for the foreseeable future.
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