Is it worth buying the new Apple iPhone SE? IPhone XS – review, reviews, price, where to buy When will iPhone se 2 go on sale

The smartphone turned out to be very successful, “grossing cash” in the mid-price segment, and mercilessly beats competitors in emerging markets.

When to expect iPhone SE 2

At the end of last year, in many countries (including Russia), the best-selling smartphone was Apple. This is a real godsend, especially for countries like India and China. The model looks cheerful even now, but the venerable age of the “esque” does not allow it to be purchased.

After the recent price cut for the iPhone SE, it is turning into an ideal purchase for those who need a compact smartphone, who want to try Apple for the first time, or for those who are looking for a device to act as a second phone.

Now iPhone SE sells from 20 thousand rubles. For this amount we get almost flagship specifications, a good camera, a display that is easy to use with one hand, and a body design that has been proven over the years.

The price reduction is clearly approved by Apple and is aimed at selling off iPhone SEs lying in Russia

Many indicate that the second-generation “budget flagship” will appear next spring. It makes no sense to roll out such devices every year; once every two years is a normal cycle. Among the potential buyers of SE 2 there will be those who, for some reason, will be disappointed in the iPhone presented in the fall.

I wouldn’t specifically wait for the iPhone SE 2, no one will give a 100% guarantee of the device’s appearance, the price tag at the start of sales may be too high, and how long the generosity of domestic resellers with the price of the first SE will last is unknown.

What will the iPhone SE 2 be like?

The smartphone simply needs a new design. The “angular remnant” from 2013 will be a complete failure in 2018. Even last year, before the presentation of the iPhone SE, everyone was waiting for a new design in the “six” style. Cupertino decided to save on development and sell off old components, but this cannot be done a second time.

After the release of SE 2, the first one will become cheaper even more; resellers will offer this model for at least a year for an average of 15-17 thousand. At the same time, only a few will choose a new product for its updated filling. We are definitely looking forward to a new design in the iPhone SE 2.

Another major innovation could be a 4.2-inch display. A slight increase in the screen should not affect the size of the new product. If the dimensions remain the same and the screen is larger, this will be a significant advantage when choosing SE 2.

Changes “under the hood” will be of least interest to potential buyers; this is not a flagship model and measuring scores in synthetic tests will be unnecessary. However, the model may inherit the hardware from the iPhone 7. There will be an improved camera, a second-generation Touch ID, and an A10 Fusion processor.

Storage capacity and price

Many sources confirm that the iPhone SE 2 will be released in two versions: with 32 GB and 128 GB storage. In the US, models will cost $300 And $400 , respectively.

For us this will result in 27-30 And 35-37 thousand rubles at the start of sales. Not that tempting, especially considering the cheaper iPhone 6s and iPhone 7.

Do I need an iPhone SE 2

Definitely! This is not the first time Apple has entered the mid-price segment. The experiment with the plastic iPhone 5c turned out to be controversial, but the second appearance with the SE turned out much better.

It is obvious that the company plans to maintain market share in developing countries and squeeze out Android competitors in other markets.

It’s always cool when you can buy an iPhone for $300-400, when you can choose between a flagship and a simpler model, when you have a big “shovel” and a convenient smartphone.

As 5s practice has shown, such devices can easily withstand a 4-year operating cycle.

In the second half of March 2016, the head of Apple presented the world with the new iPhone SE. On the same day, the main characteristics of the new device and its release date in the world and the Russian Federation were announced. Tim Cook also announced the approximate price of the gadget, which surprised the audience a lot. It turned out that, despite many advantages, the phone is quite budget-friendly. Subsequently, this factor had a great influence on the popularity of the iPhone SE.

Already during the presentation, attentive viewers noticed that the SE resembles the fifth iPhone in design. And, it should be noted, the characteristics of the device also did not impress potential buyers of the new product. Whether they changed their minds after purchasing the gadget or were even more disappointed - we’ll try to figure it out in our review.

A Russian user deciphered the abbreviation in the name of the new iPhone as Special Edition. But what exactly is good about this model can be most easily determined by comparing it with the fifth and sixth line of gadgets. At the presentation it was said that the new device is not inferior in performance to its two closest predecessors. However, the dimensions of the SE, as everyone immediately noticed, turned out to be significantly smaller than other phones from Apple. Whether this is an advantage or a disadvantage is up to the user to decide. Some will be confused by the small display. And others will consider the small dimensions a big plus, because the phone will not be able to slip out of their hands.

Since many users consider the camera to be the main feature of an iPhone, this is what should be highlighted in the SE model. Advantages of the camera of the smartphone in question:

Improved footage thanks to a 12 MP camera.
Possibility of shooting 4K video.
Availability of creating panoramas with a resolution of 64 MP.
Taking “live” photographs.
Excellent pictures even at night (the manufacturer has built a two-color flash into the device).

Of course, all these features will impress anyone. But the SE model's other interior components are just as good. At the same presentation, the manufacturer highlighted the following advantages of the model:

Availability of A9 processor.
Memory in 2 options – 16 GB or 64 GB.
Built-in Touch ID sensor.
A powerful battery that can hold a charge for up to 13 hours during active surfing on the Internet.

So, the iPhone SE is almost no worse than the six S. But, of course, there are a number of differences. Let’s say the new product has a Touch ID sensor of the first generation, and the six S has a second generation. In addition, the SE version does not include LTE Advanced technology. This negatively affects the speed of data loading. And if in the sixth generation gadget the speed indicator is 450 Mbit, then in SE it is 3 times less.

iPhone SE performance

At a time when the release date of the iPhone SE in Russia had not yet been precisely determined, Apple fans already knew a lot about this new product. In particular, many were interested in performance indicators. We will talk about them in more detail later.

The manufacturer installed the A9 chipset in the new gadget. As always, the company did not want to equip a “fresh” device with an old version of the processor. And this is quite understandable, because at the time the SE was released, a newer model was looming on the horizon - the iPhone 7 with the A10 chipset.

In addition, due to the presence of the A9 chip and M9 coprocessor in the SE, the Siri assistant can be used in the background. In order for this assistant to be activated, all you need to do is say “Hey Siri”. The supply of processors for SE was carried out by the Taiwanese company TSMC. But there are also rumors that Samsung Corporation is also involved in this.

According to the test results, it turned out that in terms of performance, the iPhone SE is more powerful than the six S. According to AnTuTu research, the younger model scored a little more than 133 thousand points, and the older one – 132 points. By comparison, a simple six has only 80 thousand points.

Memory

The RAM capacity of the SE model is 2 GB. As for the built-in memory, users have access to variations of gadgets with memory of 16 and 32 GB. According to research, thanks to a good amount of memory, tabs in the Safari browser are saved for a longer period than in the fifth iPhone. In addition, they are rebooted much less frequently. Thanks to this, traveling across the global network becomes more efficient. The user can go to any open tab without waiting for it to refresh.

Battery

Journalists from one of the American newspapers tested the iPhone SE regarding the length of its battery life. This study also included iPhones 5 and 6 models S and Samsung Galaxy S7. The new device from Apple performed just fine, although the conditions were created equal.

It turned out that the iPhone SE lasts 2 hours longer on a single full battery charge than other Apple gadgets. And when compared with the Galaxy, the Korean device ran out of charge 3 hours earlier than the iPhone SE.

Cameras – main and front

The selfie camera characteristics of the SE are exactly the same as the six S cameras – 1.2 MP. The new device received the “live photo” function, but all gadgets in the sixth line have the same feature (except for the simple six).

Video recording with 4K quality and a frequency of 30 frames per second has become available.

iPhone SE cost in Russia

As noted at the beginning of the article, the price of the smartphone was announced at the presentation. It is very important that the manufacturer did not forget to mention this. For many buyers, the cost of a mobile phone is an important factor in their purchasing decision. And here Apple was able to attract the attention of fans.

The price for the SE model turned out to be very affordable and at the beginning of sales was about $400 (on average, 28,000 rubles). Apple management focused on the rich “filling” of the device and the same functions. Thus, the iPhone SE model became the most inexpensive in the history of the company. But, importantly, at a low price, the quality remains at the same level.

It is for these reasons that Russian residents should pay attention to the iPhone SE. According to experts, in our country it is simply unrealistic to buy a smartphone with a similar set of functions for such a price. And, in fact, SE is a smaller version of the iPhone 6S.

Based on all of the above, we can say that the iPhone SE will be a great purchase for everyone.

iPhone SE release date in Russia

The release date of this gadget in our country was slightly shifted. As always, the new product was first sold in the USA and Europe, and Russia became one of the countries in the second wave of sales. And in countries such as India, the new device hit the shelves even later.

In the Russian Federation, Apple fans were able to purchase an iPhone SE in early April 2016. In the company's official online store, a pre-order service for the model was available, which many took advantage of.

What do they say about people with SE? Rogues? Those who were not approved for a loan for iPhone X? Now imagine that it's not about money. In some respects, the iPhone SE is head and shoulders above its powerful counterparts.

Therefore, rumors about a possible iPhone SE 2 excite many minds. What flagship features will this already cool smartphone get? Let's figure out what new things are, Most likely, will receive a compact iPhone.

What will happen in iPhone SE 2

There are no obvious leaks around the future new product. Everything that is shown on the Internet looks more like the crafts of amateurs. Industrial designers dilute the vacuum with quite realistic ones.

But this does not mean that the device will not be released. It's just that it won't be shown in March, but... Later, at the summer presentation. Here is a list of the most likely innovations:

✅ Wireless charging

Since the beginning of this year, analysts from various authoritative publications have been saying that all 2018 iPhones will have wireless charging. It is unlikely that this will not be brought to the iPhone SE 2. Cupertino residents need to promote their Air Power, and they can make good money by replacing the rear glass panel.

✅ Waterproof four-inch case

Perhaps the most lively discussion is around the shape of the case. We even heard a wild rumor about a completely new 4.2-inch screen. Why make new ones if you can use old ones?

But do you remember what “SE” even means? Special Edition. Two years ago we saw a special edition iPhone 5s. It is quite possible that in 2018 a special version of another model awaits us. For example, a reduced 6s with a “seven” filling.

One thing is more or less certain: SE 2 will receive a waterproof case with a four-inch screen.

✅ 2 GB RAM

The operating system and applications on such a screen are less power-hungry, so it is unlikely that we will face a major upgrade of RAM.

This will not affect performance in any way for the next year and a half. Now iPhone SE, 6s, 6s Plus, 7 work at 2 GB. At the same time, SE and “seven” feel fine.

✅ 32 or 128 GB built-in

Memory capacity has long become not a technical limitation, but a marketing ploy. The difference between neighboring sizes costs the manufacturer a couple of tens of dollars, and the price tag is increased by hundreds.

Therefore, they will most likely start from the minimum and maximum needs. 32 GB is enough for comfortable work, and the 128 GB version will be used by those who like to take photos and videos. There will be no in-between; the choice between cheap and expensive plays into Apple’s hands.

✅ A10 Fusion processor

If we draw very specific parallels, then the iPhone SE at the beginning of 2016 received the A9 processor from the iPhone 6s at the end of 2015. By the same logic, the iPhone SE 2 needs to be equipped with eight and ten processors.

But it’s unlikely that the best sales of last year’s new products will be dropped in this way. It is much more logical to install the A10 Fusion processor from the iPhone 7 in SE 2, which is still pulling the “blanket” over itself. SE 2 should compete with the “seven”, and not with recent flagships.

✅ Touch ID second generation

The SE still uses first-generation sensors, which, however, still work faster than the 5s due to the processor power. It is unlikely that such a trick will be pulled off a second time. Touch ID should work instantly, which is what the new A10 Fusion comes in handy for.

✅Force Touch

Another feature in the “high time” section. It’s clear why the SE wasn’t given a pressure-sensitive display last year: fresh technology, exclusive to flagships, and all that. But now every second Chinese has such a display, and even in the iPhone it’s already a given.

What the iPhone SE 2 won't have

It's tempting to continue with the top list, but the reality is that no one is going to make the iPhone SE 2 a flagship killer. Therefore, you shouldn’t expect “full stuffing”, here are the features that will bypass a compact smartphone:

❌ Face ID and screen cutout

No one is going to make the iPhone SE 2 frameless, so, in theory, Face ID sensors would fit there anyway, and they would not cause rejection from anyone. Dream ID, no less.

But then the exclusive “ten” feature will disappear. Apple will definitely not take this step.

❌ OLED display

The reason is exactly the same, the features of the iPhone X should only be in a more expensive smartphone. Not cheap. Otherwise, no one will buy the “ten”.

Of course, the perfect black display looks delicious, and it can add a couple of points to the SE 2 in terms of autonomy. We can only dream about this; no petitions will save us.

❌ 120 Hz display with True Tone

It’s stupid to count on a 120 GHz display; even the iPhone X didn’t get it. On the iPad, such screens showed their best side, so I want to see them everywhere. True Tone white balance equalization is another exclusive from last year’s smartphones, which you shouldn’t expect in the iPhone SE 2 either.

❌ Stereo speaker

The stereo speakers in the iPhone 7 made watching videos more comfortable: you turn the smartphone into landscape mode and no longer listen to the sounds.

The iPhone SE 2 is clearly not designed for content consumption, so why does it need stereo?

❌ Audio jack

Remember that the iPhone SE 2 will most likely be waterproof? In the Apple world, this means that there will be no audio jack, because this is the weak link in any water resistance (read with sarcasm).

We also need to somehow support the never-expanding wave of accessories with a Lightning connector.

So is it worth taking it?

It depends on what it is needed for. This is a new product for those who like to watch videos and get stuck on social networks. contraindicated. Save up for smartphones with a larger diagonal.

At one time, I chose SE for one simple reason. This is perfect work tool.

I don't have time to surf YouTube, play mobile games or hang out on Instagram. I work with content on a Macbook or PC. I need a smartphone to keep in touch. So I wasn’t too lazy and calculated that there are more instant messengers on the desktop of my iPhone SE than games.

In this cut, the four-inch SE is much more comfortable than the others. If we discard the paragraphs about the ideal design and familiar interface, then the following advantages will remain:

it flies on the latest iOS
its battery lasts for a full day of intensive use and one and a half to two lazy ones
it can be used with one hand while standing on your head
he has a decent margin of safety
repairs cost pennies

Almost the entire experience can be streamed on iPhone SE 2. It will be even faster and will have several additional functions. The only disappointment is the glass back panel, the repair of which can hit your pockets.

All declared battery characteristics depend on network settings and other factors; Actual operating times may differ from those stated. The battery allows a limited number of charging cycles. After some time has passed, the battery may need to be replaced by an Apple Authorized Service Provider. Battery life and number of charge cycles vary depending on device settings and usage. More details on pages and.
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Thanks to numerous reviews from iPhone SE owners, we were able to highlight the main advantages and disadvantages of the 4-inch Apple smartphone released in 2016.

Benefits of iPhone SE

The good old 4-inch form factor

Millions of graceful women's palms have yearned for the small, comfortable contours of the bodies of old gadgets. The same can be said about the large army of Asian buyers, teenagers and children. A return to a 4-inch display diagonal and proportional body dimensions is a clear plus. Not degradation, but creative quality, rethinking the concept of a smart phone for all occasions.

A9 processor

Small but bold - the iPhone SE is in some ways inferior to the flagship models, but this does not apply to performance. Those who have not yet replaced their old iPhone 5 are in for a pleasant surprise. It looks like the same device, but its hardware is the most advanced, take at least the full version of the A9 processor, no modifications with reduced functionality. The last factor will become one of the most important marketing advantages of a newbie over competitors.

M9 and Siri always active

The gadget, among others, also received a function that was first demonstrated six months ago. The power of the M9 coprocessor has finally become enough to serve as a full-fledged deputy of the main chip in case it is turned off to save energy or the smartphone is simply locked. In situations like this, you can still shout “Hey Siri” and she will respond. Convenient, whatever you say.

Rose gold color

The iPhone SE can still be considered the successor to the iPhone 6s. This is indicated, for example, by a characteristic family feature – the “rose gold” color of the case, first introduced in 2015. Not a rarity, but this color is still not available on many devices in the Apple product range. But the iPhone SE smartphone received it - to the delight of those who like to splurge without extra costs.

Presentable view of the Apple logo

Not a metal stamping, but a separate stainless steel part, skillfully placed in its rightful place. The logo serves as a kind of inlay, decoration for the smartphone body, although this is not entirely logical from the point of view of minimizing the cost of the product. Or vice versa - it’s just not worth saving on such inexpensive, but catchy details in order to attract buyers.

Correct silhouette of the edges

The iPhone 5s model had excellent ergonomics, but with the transition to the phablet format, Cupertino engineers had to significantly adjust the bevels of the edges - they became more rounded. iPhone SE received its own side edge design. Comfortable to grip and protected from scratches and chips.

2 GB RAM

A small bow to Apple, which not only deigned to satisfy one of the key requests of users, but also did not skimp on a solution for a budget model. We are talking about the long-awaited transition from a single gigabyte of RAM, unchanged for years on end, to twice the volume of a valuable resource. Even without official confirmation, the iPhone SE model still received the coveted 2 GB of RAM - goodbye to Safari slowdowns, unmotivated iOS freezes and other unpleasant factors.

12 MP iSight camera

Another example that users of the new product will not feel too disadvantaged compared to owners of flagship devices. Their main cameras of the iSight series are identical - the same matrix resolution, the same f2.2 aperture, almost the same set of additional modules. Whether video shooting or selfie, everything will turn out at approximately the same level and depend on the skill of the operator, but not on the capabilities of the equipment.

Thick body, but no protruding camera lens ring

Indeed, no, and that says it all.

4K video format support

iPhone SE not only can shoot in high resolution, but also implements almost all aspects of working with the most popular format. For example, the ability to merge several streams into a single video using iMovie. Or digital zoom and virtual panning for those who are not going to reproduce 4K, but would not refuse to increase the comfort of work when creating video with a resolution of 1080p.

Slow-mo shooting at 240 fps

Copied from iPhone 6s - the new smartphone supports both modes of recording video in slow motion. And playback too, both with a frequency of 240 fps, the quality level is 720p, and with 120 fps, but in a resolution similar to 1080p. Its predecessor, an old 4-inch gadget, was also familiar with slow-mo, but could do much less.

Retina-Flash

The technology, first implemented in the iPhone 6s model, allows you to neutralize the lack of lighting when working with the front camera of a smartphone. An additional light source is the display itself, which in the latest version is capable of producing a flash three times brighter than the standard screen backlight. More importantly, the concept of “triple” is relative and in fact the required brightness is calculated very accurately based on the sensors in the latest generation FaceTime camera. Alas, the iPhone SE smartphone inherited the old front-facing module, and therefore, although it can illuminate itself during selfies, it does so rather clumsily against the backdrop of a truly smart flagship camera.

Live Photos support

One of the cosmetic functions of the latest generation of Apple gadgets is theoretically supported on older models. But only in playback format - the iPhone SE is different in that it can also create “live photos”. Nothing fundamentally new, the same automatic video capture and adding short animated inserts before and after a static image. But at least there is no lag behind fashion.

Compatible with Apple Pay

This service was initially developed for broad compatibility with the iPhone lineup, and its only bottleneck was the need for an NFC chip and a “security enclave” key storage in the mobile device. Both are present in the iPhone SE by default—you don't have to use the Apple Watch companion gadget to shop using your smartphone.

High speed communication

More than the iPhone 5s, but less than the current flagship - the result is a good average result. The iPhone SE model is equipped with Bluetooth 4.2 wireless modules, Wi-Fi 802.11ac and 19-band LTE with a peak throughput of up to 150 Mb/s.

Optimized Power System

Less free space inside the case, but modern compact batteries. An advanced and energy-intensive display, but due to the 4-inch diagonal, it is not as power-hungry as similar phablet units. Together, these two factors provided the iPhone SE with better battery life than the iPhone 5s.