A recent rumor suggested that Apple might launch the new iPhone 16E (or iPhone SE 4) earlier than expected, potentially alongside the release of iOS 18.3. However, a well-known analyst has quickly refuted these claims, suggesting the device will launch with iOS 18.4, aligning with Apple's typical release schedule.
Leaker Suggests Early Launch with iOS 18.3
A leaker with a credible track record on X (formerly Twitter) claimed that the iPhone 16E, codenamed "V59," and the new entry-level iPad 11, codenamed "J481," would be released later this month with iOS 18.3 and iPadOS 18.3.
Yes, the new iPads and iPhone SE replacement are being developed on the iOS 18.3 train - but that doesn’t mean they launch together this month. It means they’ll launch before iOS 18.4, by April if all goes to plan. https://t.co/qaMSH1ImSW
— Mark Gurman (@markgurman) January 7, 2025
Analyst Refutes Claim, Predicts April Release with iOS 18.4
Shortly after the rumor surfaced, prominent industry analyst Mark Gurman responded, stating that while the iPhone 16E and iPad 11 are being developed on the iOS 18.3 platform, their release will not coincide with this version. Gurman asserts that Apple will release these devices "by April," before releasing iOS 18.4 to the general public. This aligns with Apple's typical release pattern for the SE lineup.
Gurman's statement suggests that the iPhone 16E and the iPad 11 are "being developed on the iOS 18.3 train" but it does not mean that the hardware and the software will be released together.
iPhone 16E Features
The iPhone 16E, expected to be a rebrand of the iPhone SE 4, is rumored to feature a design similar to the iPhone 14, including Face ID and a larger 6.1-inch OLED display. Under the hood, it could be powered by the A17 Pro or A18 chip, coupled with 8GB of RAM for Apple Intelligence capabilities.
Looking Ahead
While a timeframe has been suggested, details about the iPhone 16E are still developing. It's expected to stick to Apple's typical spring release schedule, so we can expect an official launch in the coming months.
Source: Original rumor via MacRumors; Analyst info via various reports
