The iPhone SE 2, a.k.a the iPhone 9, could debut anytime after next week, a new report claims.
According to the report, case makers for the new low-cost handset have started sending inventory to retailers like Best Buy. However, they have included instructions that the products must not be displayed until April 5.
The report was published by 9to5Mac late Monday. It includes an image of a new Urban Armor Gear case for what is described on the packaging as a “New iPhone 4.7-inch, 2020” handset. The fact that the case is being sent to a major retailer like Best Buy suggests that a launch is imminent.
Since April 5 is a Sunday, it is unlikely that this is the day that the new iPhone will go on sale. But it does suggest that it could follow some time soon after, potentially the following week.
The iPhone SE 2/iPhone 9
A 4.7-inch iPhone — a follow-up to the iPhone SE — has been heavily rumored for some time. Reported to cost $399, the device will reportedly use the same design as iPhone 8. However, it will pack a faster A13 Bionic processor and more RAM.
The new handset was originally expected to ship in March. Unfortunately, supply chain problems related to the spread of the coronavirus seemingly hurt those plans. According to one report from early March, Apple had “indefinitely delayed” the new iPhone.
But Front Page Tech analyst Jon Prosser pushed back on that, saying in late March that Apple had put the iPhone 9/iPhone SE 2 into mass production. Prosser said that Apple is working with Chinese manufacturer BYD in China to “spread out production and move faster.”
Would you be excited at the prospect of a new low-cost iPhone? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
