[imagesource: Apple]

The iPhone SE, released back in 2016, was a massive success and is still much loved by Apple fans world over.

Since that model was released, however, we’ve seen incredible technological upgrades that have produced some of the most advanced and elegant smartphones in existence, with cameras and other features that have surpassed our expectations.

Still, there was a gap in the market for something simpler. It’s what the people wanted, and Apple was there to heed the call.

Introducing the new iPhone SE, a more affordable phone with the look of an iPhone 8, complete with some key upgrades.

In the US, it can be pre-ordered starting April 17, and will be available to purchase from April 24, Apple said.

It is not known what the South African release date will be.

Over to The Verge:

..this iPhone SE has Apple’s A13 Bionic chip, the same that’s available in the latest iPhone 11 and 11 Pro models.

That should ensure that it has a much longer lifespan than the $449 iPhone 8 model that it’s replacing in Apple’s lineup, which had an A11 chip from 2017. There won’t be a plus-sized version of the second-generation iPhone SE, but the iPhone 8 Plus will continue to be sold in certain markets.

There are also new camera features including a single 12-megapixel camera lens on the back complete with a flash.

The A13 Bionic’s chips will improve its Smart HDR photography, combining multiple shots into a single photo to improve lighting and detail.

Here’s a breakdown of the specs:

• Screen: 4,7 inch True Tone display
• Rear cameras: 12-megapixel single 6-element lens, features OIS, flicker sensor for white balance, focus pixels, HDR, and portrait mode for people, video recording at 4K/60fps
• Selfie camera: 7-megapixel camera
• Dimensions: 67,3 x 138,4 x 7,3mm, 148 grams
• Memory: TBA
• Storage: available in 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB
• Battery: TBA
• OS: iOS 13
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, Gigabit LTE, Dual SIM with eSIM
• Biometric authentication: second-generation Touch ID fingerprint sensor
• Processor: A13 Bionic

The phone comes equipped with wireless charging capabilities, a lighting connector and a 5W charger.

I’ll let Apple show it off for you:

Mashable has raved about the new iPhone, with Sasha Lekach declaring it her “dream phone”, while PCMag is describing the iPhone SE as the “ideal phone for the COVID-19 year”.

While Apple’s top competitors are trumpeting their most expensive phones ever, Apple just dragged its price floor down…

I don’t think anyone, in September or October of last year, could have predicted where we would be now. I don’t think Apple has a crystal ball. But there’s no question that it will benefit.

Everyone loves a new iPhone, and this one looks as though it shouldn’t break the bank. It will start from $399 in the US, although South African pricing isn’t yet known.

Few things are more important than connectivity right now, as we try to stay in touch with loved ones and keep up with the latest info about the pandemic.

With that in mind, you’ll be pleased to know that the experts at Digicape, South Africa’s largest independent Apple retailer, are working through the lockdown to help you stay connected.

Here’s a shoutout to the company from local DJ and media personality Ryan O’Connor:

You can find all the information about Digicape’s essential services support here.

If your devices need repairs, or you need help, get in touch with Digicape via email (wecare@digicape.co.za) or find their other contact details here, to see if they’re able to sort you out.

In addition, if you have some older Apple goods lying around and you want to score discounts, Digicape will also accept up to five of your old devices as a trade-in against the purchase of any new product.

Like that new iPhone SE, for example…

Stay connected, and stay safe.

[source:verge&pcmag&mashable]