Rumors Of The Name "iPhone 16E" Will Be Used For IPhone SE 4: Will Apple Change Tradition?

Apple wants to take advantage of a more premium branding "iPhone 16". (photo: x @amanz)

JAKARTA - Apple is known to maintain consistency in their product lines, including the iPhone SE series which has been an entry-level option since 2016. However, the latest rumors sourced from two leakers whose credibility is doubtful claim that Apple may change the name of the iPhone SE 4 to "iPhone 16E."

Scheduled for release in early 2025, the iPhone SE 4 is rumored to adopt an iPhone 14 design with one rear camera. As a device targeting users with a limited budget, the iPhone SE has been synonymous with simple branding and has remained using the same name since it was first introduced.

However, new rumors suggest that Apple may be trying a stronger branding approach by naming it "iPhone 16E."

This rumor first appeared on Weibo via a leaker called Fixed Focus Digital and was followed by Majin Bu. Both have questionable track records. Fixed Focus Digital, which only appeared in early 2024, is known to often share claims that contradict information from trusted leakers.

Majin Bu also has a history of missed predictions, such as rumors about the redesign of iMessage, macOS for the iPad, and the return of the AirPort router in 2022 which never materialized. In fact, Majin Bu himself once asked his audience not to be too serious about responding to his claims.

According to Fixed Focus Digital, Apple may consider the name "iPhone 16E" to attract more attention and take advantage of premium "iPhone 16" branding. However, this claim is not supported by strong evidence.

Apple has maintained a simple approach in naming the iPhone SE line, which provides a strong identity as an affordable device without losing the impression of exclusivity. Changing the name to "iPhone 16E" can be considered a surprising and unprecedented step.

This rumor comes amid greater speculation about Apple's strategy for the iPhone SE line. Some analysts say that the iPhone SE 4 could be one of the last devices in this series, especially if Apple focuses on premium devices in the future.

In addition, the claim of Fixed Focus Digital that Apple has left the development of a foldable iPhone contradicts many reports that the company continues to explore this technology through patents and prototypes.

Apple is expected to announce the iPhone SE 4 before June 2025. Until then, the official name of this device is still a mystery. Will it continue to use the name "iPhone SE 4" or actually change to "iPhone 16E," only time can answer.

As Apple users and fans, we can only wait and see if these rumors become a reality or just speculation.