Apple fans and technology enthusiasts can look forward to an exciting start to 2025. According to reports, Apple is planning to launch two new devices earlier than expected: the fourth-generation iPhone SE and the 11th-generation iPad. Both are expected to be released together with iOS 18.3. The announcement could come as early as the end of January. Here you can find out everything that is known so far.
Apple always comes up with surprises and this time too, the Cupertino company seems to be taking an unusual path. Instead of waiting for the usual spring period, Apple could present important new products as early as January. The reason for this could be both legal requirements and strategic decisions. The coming weeks could show how Apple implements its plans and what innovations the new devices really offer.
market launch with iOS 18.3
The leaker who made this information known (via MacRumors), speaks of two devices with the internal abbreviations "V59" and "J481" that are to be released together with iOS 18.3. According to the well-known Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman, these are the fourth generation iPhone SE and the 11th generation iPad. A look at the previous release cycles of iOS updates showsthat the ".3" versions traditionally appear at the end of January. iOS 15.3, 16.3 and 17.3 were all released at this time. So it is likely that iOS 18.3 will follow this pattern and the new devices will also be introduced at the end of January.
Without a big event?
One of the most exciting questions is whether Apple is planning an event for the presentation. The company is known for its elaborate product presentations, but things could be different with these two devices. The fourth generation iPhone SE in particular, which brings significant innovations compared to its predecessors, would actually be a candidate for a larger presentation. However, if Apple were to forego an event and communicate the market launch via press release, that would not be an unusual step. It is possible that the launch will take place without much fanfare in order to focus on other products that are expected in the spring - such as the MacBook Air M4 or the second generation AirTags.
The iPhone SE 4: A big step forward
The fourth generation iPhone SE is expected to bring some significant new features. Here are the key points:
- Design: The iPhone SE is expected to adopt the design of the iPhone 14 for the first time. This means that the home button is no longer needed and Touch ID is replaced by Face ID.
- Display: The device will feature a 6-inch OLED display, which is a big step forward for the SE series.
- USB-C instead of Lightning: Like all new devices, the iPhone SE will also use USB-C in the future to comply with EU regulations.
- Price: With a price of around 550 euros in Germany, the iPhone SE remains an affordable alternative to the more expensive models.
The iPhone SE 4 is a significant step forward and could be particularly well received by price-conscious buyers. At the same time, it makes the SE series more attractive for users who have previously preferred older iPhone models.
The iPad 11th generation: More than just an update?
Less is known about the iPad 11th generation so far. It is expected that the device will also bring some innovations, especially in terms of performance and connections. Whether this is a fundamental redesign or just a technical upgrade remains to be seen. Apple could rely on continuity here and continue the iPad as a solid entry-level model.
Why an early release?
The reasons for the early market launch could be varied. On the one hand, due to the new EU regulations on the USB-C port, Apple has brought its previous iPhone SE models and also the iPhone 14 into Europe have to be taken out of circulationOn the other hand, the quick launch could be part of a new strategy to use the beginning of the year for new products and thus shift the focus to later releases.
iPhone SE4 & iPad 11: Apple could surprise with new devices in January
The possible launch of the fourth generation iPhone SE and the 11th generation iPad at the end of January promises an exciting start to Apple's year 2025. Both devices bring important innovations, especially the iPhone SE 4, which stands out from its predecessors with its new design and modern features. It remains to be seen whether Apple will present the new products at an event or via a press release. What is clear, however, is that these devices should be of interest to many users, especially due to their combination of modern design and an affordable price. So it's worth keeping an eye on developments. (Image: Apple)
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