Is Apple going to release a new iPhone on February 19?

Dubai: Is Apple gearing up to unveil a new iPhone or a refreshed MacBook next week? Apple CEO Tim Cook has fuelled speculation with a cryptic post on X (formerly Twitter), confirming an upcoming product launch. 

“Get ready to meet the newest member of the Apple family,” Cook wrote without revealing further details. However, industry insiders believe the announcement, scheduled for Wednesday, February 19, could introduce the much-anticipated iPhone SE 4 or a MacBook Air powered by the M4 chip. The post contributed to a 2 per cent rise in Apple’s stock on Thursday. 

Reports suggest the fourth-generation iPhone SE will feature Apple’s A18 chip—also expected in the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus—bringing Apple Intelligence capabilities to the entry-level model. The device is rumoured to have a larger 6.1-inch display, a matte black finish, and a single rear camera. 

Bloomberg’s resident Apple expert, Mark Gurman, has hinted at an ‘imminent’ release, with multiple product announcements expected in the coming weeks. Apple retail stores reportedly run low inventory for the current iPhone SE, further fuelling speculation about an impending launch. 

The new iPhone SE is expected to resemble the iPhone 14, featuring Face ID and eliminating the iconic home button, which was first introduced by Steve Jobs in 2007. Additionally, the iPhone SE 4 is set to debut Apple’s first in-house cellular modem, replacing Qualcomm’s components, Bloomberg reported last week. This modem is also expected in a new slimmer iPhone later this year, with an upgraded version planned for the iPhone Pro models in 2026. 

Beyond the iPhone SE, Bloomberg also said Apple is preparing for several product launches in early 2025, including a MacBook Air with an M4 chip, an upgraded iPad Air and entry-level iPads, a smart home hub with a built-in display, and next-generation AirTag tracking device.

Apple will, however, refresh its iPhone and Apple Watch lineups later this year. The tech conglomerate is banking on new products to counter a recent sales slump. iPhone revenue declined 1 per cent during the holiday quarter, with a significant 11 per cent drop in China. 

This latest announcement is part of a series of product updates from Apple this week. The company has rolled out Apple TV+ for Android devices, launched Powerbeats Pro 2 with heart-rate monitoring, and invited media for briefings on the Vision Pro headset. The company also launched ‘Apple Invites’ – a new app that brings people together for life’s special moments earlier this month.

“With Apple Invites, users can create and easily share invitations, RSVP, contribute to Shared Albums, and engage with Apple Music playlists,” the company said. Gulf News will be reporting more on Apple’s official announcement next week.