Next week, Apple is gearing up to introduce a new addition to its product lineup. The event, scheduled for Wednesday, February 19th, has sparked speculation about what the tech giant might reveal. While some anticipated an iPhone SE 4 announcement, it seems more likely that Apple will present an updated mid-range smartphone. Tim Cook's recent tweet, accompanied by a shimmering Apple logo, hints at the upcoming release of a device with a metallic finish. Despite earlier predictions from insiders that a $500 iPhone would debut this week, Apple surprised everyone by announcing the expansion of Apple TV+ to Android devices.

The last iPhone SE was launched in 2022, featuring a Touch ID button and thick bezels. According to multiple leaks, the new model is expected to have a full-screen design, though details on whether it will include a notch or Dynamic Island remain unclear. Regardless, the next phone should support FaceID technology. Industry rumors suggest that the device will be powered by the A18 chip, similar to the one found in the iPhone 16. There are also whispers that Apple may develop its own modem instead of relying on Qualcomm. If the device supports advanced features like Apple Intelligence, it will likely come equipped with at least 8 GB of RAM. Pricing could hover around $500, making it Apple’s most affordable option. This year, however, Apple may dedicate more attention to its budget-friendly models, especially with the promise of enhanced AI capabilities in Siri, set to launch by April.

With Samsung recently unveiling its Galaxy S25 series, which includes cross-app AI functionalities, the competition in the AI-powered smartphone market is heating up. Early tests of Samsung’s AI showed promising results for simple tasks but faltered when handling more complex operations. Apple has made similar promises regarding its AI offerings, and the new iPhone SE could potentially showcase features that outshine competitors. While skepticism remains, the anticipation for Apple’s innovations continues to build as the company prepares to unveil its latest creation.