Apple to Host Special Event on February 20: iPhone SE4 (Potentially Renamed) to Receive Major Upgrades

Apple to Host Special Event on February 20: iPhone SE4 (Potentially Renamed) to Receive Major UpgradesApple CEO Tim Cook recently announced via social media a special product launch event scheduled for February 20th (Beijing time). The teaser video and tagline, "Get ready to meet the newest member of the family," have sparked widespread speculation

Apple to Host Special Event on February 20: iPhone SE4 (Potentially Renamed) to Receive Major Upgrades

Apple CEO Tim Cook recently announced via social media a special product launch event scheduled for February 20th (Beijing time). The teaser video and tagline, "Get ready to meet the newest member of the family," have sparked widespread speculation. Previous reports suggested the iPhone SE4 would be released via press release and immediately available on the website next week. Cook's "newest member of the family" phrasing hints at more than just a new phone; a brand refresh is also a possibility, aligning with rumors that the iPhone SE4 might be renamed iPhone 16E.

Predictions surrounding the highly anticipated device are abundant. Acclaimed analyst Ming-Chi Kuo forecasts iPhone SE4 shipments of 12 million units in the first half of 2025 and 10 million in the second half, slightly below the nearly 20 million annual shipments seen with previous SE models. Nevertheless, this is still expected to alleviate Apple's shipment pressure during the off-season and boost sales of Apple Intelligence devices.

A key highlight is Apple's in-house 5G modem. Leaks suggest the new iPhone SE4 will feature Apple's self-developed 5G modem. Confirmation of this would significantly impact Apple's ongoing patent disputes with Qualcomm.

Leaked information indicates the iPhone SE4 will boast a 6.1-inch OLED display with a notch, a flat-edged frame, and a 1170x2532 resolution. The larger screen and higher resolution promise a significant visual upgrade, offering users a more refined and sharper viewing experience. Camera-wise, it might only feature a single 48MP lens, potentially the same 48MP Fusion main camera as the iPhone 16, implying a lack of ultrawide or telephoto capabilities.

In terms of core specifications, the iPhone SE4 is expected to be powered by the new A18 processor and come with 8GB of RAM. It will also adopt a USB-C port, likely to better support Apple Intelligence features and provide a smoother, more efficient user experience.

Regarding pricing, rumors suggest a starting price of $499 (approximately 3647), representing a roughly 16% increase over its predecessor. Even with the price hike, it's still expected to be Apple's most affordable model. However, this price point remains unconfirmed, pending official announcement.

Beyond the iPhone SE4, Apple may unveil several other products at next week's event, including:

• iPad Air 7: Expected to feature an M3 or M4 chip and 8GB of RAM. Upgrades might primarily focus on accessories, such as a potentially lower-priced new Magic Keyboard.

• iPad 11: Expected to incorporate the A17 Pro chip and 8GB of RAM, with support for Apple Intelligence features. Significant performance improvements over its predecessor are anticipated.

• MacBook Air: Expected to be powered by the M4 chip, with storage starting at 16GB+256GB. Minor color adjustments might be introduced, with other aspects remaining largely unchanged.

• AirTag 2: Likely to offer improved battery life and more precise tracking capabilities.

It's noteworthy that recent reports indicate Apple is planning to collaborate with Chinese AI large language models as a ChatGPT alternative in the Chinese market, reportedly partnering with Alibaba to develop AI functionalities for iPhones in China. This collaboration would further enhance Apple's competitiveness in the Chinese market and deliver a more convenient and intelligent user experience.

In conclusion, Apple's February 20th special event is highly anticipated. Besides the potentially renamed and significantly upgraded iPhone SE4, Apple may introduce a range of other new products across its iPad, MacBook, and AirTag lines. This event will showcase not only Apple's latest hardware innovations but also its strategic positioning in the AI space, further solidifying its leadership in the tech industry. We will witness how Apple uses these new products and technologies to enrich users' digital lives. The market performance of the iPhone SE4 and the practical application of Apple's self-developed 5G modem will be key areas of industry focus. This Apple event is undoubtedly poised to have a profound impact on the entire tech industry. We await the unveiling with bated breath.