iPhone SE 3 & Powerbeats Pro 2: Apple Event Rumors - February 11

Apple's Potential February 11th Product Announcements

According to reports from Bloomberg, Apple may unveil a new iPhone SE and PowerBeats Pro headphones as soon as February 11th. The anticipated announcement is projected to be relatively modest in scope, as the company has not yet distributed invitations for either a physical or virtual event.

Next-Generation iPhone SE

A new iPhone SE would represent the fourth iteration of Apple’s more affordable smartphone option. It would also be the first release in the series since 2022. The previous generation, integrated within the iPhone 13 lineup, carried a price of $429 and featured specifications akin to the iPhone 8, notably including a Touch ID fingerprint sensor.

This earlier model has already been discontinued within the European Union due to its Lightning port, which fails to comply with the Common Charger Directive legislation.

Consistent with the rest of Apple’s product range, a refreshed iPhone SE will almost certainly incorporate a USB-C port. Rumors suggest the handset’s design will echo that of the iPhone 14 series, which debuted after the last SE model.

Key Features and Technological Advancements

The anticipated update is likely to signify the end of the Touch ID home button on iPhones, with Face ID biometrics taking its place. The fourth-generation iPhone SE is also expected to be compatible with Apple Intelligence.

It could also be the first Apple device to utilize an internally developed modem, reducing the company’s reliance on external chip manufacturers such as Qualcomm.

Market Focus and Sales Expectations

The new SE model is predicted to gain significant traction outside of the United States, particularly in China and India, currently the world’s largest and second-largest smartphone markets, respectively. While China remains a crucial market for Apple, the company has faced challenges there in recent quarters.

Recent earnings reports indicate an 11% year-over-year decline in iPhone sales within China. This downturn is largely attributed to the increasing success of domestic manufacturers, including Huawei, which has recovered following previous trade restrictions.

The unavailability of Apple Intelligence, Apple’s generative AI offering, in China is also contributing to this trend.

PowerBeats Pro 2

Apple is also anticipated to announce the PowerBeats Pro 2 alongside the iPhone SE. These Beats-branded headphones would arrive almost six years after the original model.

The new Bluetooth earbuds are expected to be the first Apple headphones equipped with integrated heart rate tracking, furthering the company’s expansion of its wearable health initiatives beyond the Apple Watch.

Future Product Roadmap

Later in the year, Apple is expected to release updated M4-powered versions of the MacBook Air and iPad Air. A new addition to Apple’s smart home product line is also rumored.

This potential smart home hub is said to include a display and could represent Apple’s initial foray into consumer robotics. However, these products are not expected to be unveiled on February 11th.