
Apple is gearing up for its latest product unveiling, which CEO Tim Cook refers to as the “newest member of the family.” While the tech giant has yet to officially announce its latest creation, speculation suggests that it will be the next iPhone SE. Below, you’ll find all the pertinent details regarding the launch date, time, and how to tune in.
Could the iPhone SE 4th generation resemble the iPhone 14?
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The iPhone SE Launch: What to Expect
Date and Time: Wednesday, February 19, Announced via Press Release
Tim Cook recently confirmed that this date marks the new product’s reveal. It’s unlikely that a large-scale event will accompany the announcement, as no press invitations have been distributed.
Instead, the announcement will likely occur through a release on Apple’s official news page, apple.com/newsroom. There is also a chance of a comprehensive video detailing the new product being uploaded on Apple’s website and YouTube channel.
Regarding the announcement’s timing, press releases are typically issued at 5 a.m. Pacific/8 a.m. Eastern/1 p.m. U.K. Standard events like WWDC are scheduled for 10 a.m. Pacific/1 p.m. Eastern/6 p.m. U.K., so the announcement will probably happen within this timeframe.
It’s worth noting that Cook previously shared on X at 8 a.m. Pacific/11 a.m. Eastern/4 p.m. U.K., so it would be wise to keep an eye out around that hour as well.
At the launch, we will learn about the specifications, sale date, and pricing, which is expected to range from $479 to $499, although it might be higher.
Pre-Order Details for the iPhone SE
Date and Time: Friday, February 21, 5 a.m. Pacific
This might change, but if Apple follows its pattern from the iPhone 16 launch, pre-orders should open at 5 a.m. Pacific/8 a.m. Eastern/1 p.m. U.K.
For the iPhone 16, customers were allowed to select their preferred model the night before (Thursday, February 20), which permitted them to save their shopping cart in advance.
Initial Reviews of the iPhone SE
Date: Tuesday, February 25 or Wednesday, February 26
A select number of reviewers will have the opportunity to test the iPhone before its general availability, with the embargo on reviews lifting between one to three days prior to its sales date.
Review releases typically occur at 6 a.m. Pacific/9 a.m. Eastern/2 p.m. U.K.; however, this time may vary.
iPhone SE Release Date
Date and Time: Friday, February 28, 8 a.m. local time
I’m confident this will be the official release date, although it will be confirmed only during the product launch. Mark Gurman noted on Sunday, February 16, that “Apple plans to announce the phone on February 19 and aims to have it available before the end of the month.”
As Apple typically prefers Friday releases for new products and since the earlier date of February 21 is too soon, February 28 is the likely date.
Sales will commence at 8 a.m. local time, allowing customers in Australia to purchase the device hours ahead of those in Los Angeles.
I will continue updating this post with confirmed details, so please check back for the latest information.
