Apple announced a new member of their iPhone SE family, departing from its vintage iPhone 5 look with updated features that look closer to modern counterparts.
The device sports a brand new A13 Bionic processor which debuted in the iPhone 11 series last year while its 8-core Neural engine balances a machine learning AI with an improved battery life. This also enables the newest iPhone SE to charge wirelessly and reach 50% capacity “in 30 minutes.”
Interestingly, the iPhone SE keeps its smaller screen with a 4.7-inch Retina HD display and its Touch ID on its lower bezel. Its chassis is also thinner, leaving behind a box-like design that came with older mainstream iPhones since 2005.
All of its processing power go towards other hardwares such as its camera, sporting a 12MP wide camera on the front with an image signal processor which enables faster facial recognition and Portrait mode effects. Front-facing images are also expected to come with natural lighting and shadows to bring out subjects.
Videos also support 4K resolutions with up to 60fps as Apple stated its dynamic range brings more details at 30fps. Editing is also possible in its iOS 13 Photos app, letting users stitch and perform light touches before sending.
Outdoor users might also find the SE’s IP67 feature useful for any accidental drops in water or splashes. The iPhone can also survive a plunge of one meter deep for up to half an hour.
Apple added its iPhone gives long-time SE users a new change while it gives the uninitiated access to the company’s own ecosystem of devices. The phone also shares the same features, including Apple Pay and Apple TV+ as its other iPhones, Macs and iPads do with the latest update support.
Its features also fit within Apple’s budget-friendly line of phones which were introduced to compliment its premium flagship iPhones at under $1000.
The 2020 version of the iPhone SE comes in 64GB, 128GB or 256GB storage. It comes in a black, white or (PRODUCT)RED option. Pricing starts at $599 CAD and goes s low as $399 CAD under its trade-in program. Pre-orders start on April 17 across Apple Authorized retailers and select carriers.