Apple last Tuesday revealed the third-generation iPhone SE, a powerful new iPhone with exceptional capabilities and performance starting at just $429.
No, you won’t get all the fancy bells and whistles of the iPhone 13 line. Forget about the bigger screens or sophisticated cameras or Face ID.
What you get in the iPhone SE, available this Friday starting at $429, is a gadget capable of handling your essential smartphone tasks really well.
After trying out the iPhone SE for a few days, it’s clear Apple’s most affordable smartphone might sacrifice some cool features, but it still provides owners a sleek, speedy device for whatever they may require.
Longtime fans of smaller smartphones will rejoice knowing Apple has retained the SE’s adorable 4.7-inch display.
There is one key thing iPhone SE shares with the iPhone 13: the A15 processing chip. I was surprised at how fast this phone scrolls and downloads. Flipping between apps feels speedy, as do most other everyday functions. It packs plenty of zip… Yes, it’s a cheaper iPhone, but for under $500, it still feels like you get a great experience.
MacDailyNews Take: A strong review in the just the type of lowest-common-denominator publication that matters for the success of the entry-level iPhone SE.
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A more well rounded phone for similar price (refurb) is the 12 mini—better cameras and Face ID, larger screen but same size as the SE
This reviewer mostly understands why the iPhone SE is great. It’s the ultimate refinement of the original multi-touch smartphone experience Steve Jobs envisioned and introduced in 2007. The other current iPhones are advanced, but compromised. Screen notch, a compromise to have edge-to-edge screen. A complex and costly ID alternative that doesn’t work if face is not visible. A big bump on back for a “pro” camera that is inherently limited by tiny lenses and short focal length. Mostly too big to fit easily in pocket and use with one hand. The compromises may result in more sales for Apple and that’s great. However, iPhone SE is the optimized smartphone design.
Of course as a Humdrüm person, I think it is Humdrüm, but as an unimaginative Android lover, this is the best I can do. Why would you expect more from me?