Released in April 2020, the iPhone SE (2nd Generation) combines the classic design of the iPhone 8 with modern internals, offering powerful performance at a lower price point. It’s an attractive option for users who want a small, affordable iPhone without compromising on features.
Specifications
- Display: 4.7-inch Retina HD IPS LCD, 750 x 1334 pixels (326 ppi)
- Dimensions: 138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3 mm (5.45 x 2.65 x 0.29 inches)
- Weight: 148 grams (5.22 ounces)
- Storage Options: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB (no external storage)
- Processor: Hexa-core Apple A13 Bionic
- RAM: 3 GB
- Operating System: iOS 13 (upgradable to iOS 16)
- Camera: 12 MP rear camera with f/1.8 aperture, 4K video recording; 7 MP front camera
- Battery: 1821 mAh, non-removable, up to 13 hours video playback, wireless charging
- Connectivity: 4G LTE, Wi-Fi (802.11a/b/g/n/ac), Bluetooth 5.0, GPS
- Sensors: Accelerometer, gyroscope, proximity sensor, compass, barometer, fingerprint sensor (Touch ID)
Design and Display
The iPhone SE (2nd Gen) features the same design as the iPhone 8, with a 4.7-inch Retina HD display. The resolution of 750 x 1334 pixels and a pixel density of 326 ppi ensures sharp, clear visuals. It has a Touch ID fingerprint sensor housed in the home button, a feature loved by many users for its convenience and security.
The device is made from aerospace-grade aluminum and durable glass, giving it a premium feel. It is also IP67-rated, meaning it’s dustproof and water-resistant up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. Available in Black, White, and Product Red, the iPhone SE’s design is sleek and compact, appealing to those who prefer smaller devices.
A13 Bionic Chip
The standout feature of the iPhone SE (2nd Generation) is the inclusion of the A13 Bionic chip, the same processor found in the iPhone 11 series. This hexa-core CPU with two high-performance cores and four efficiency cores delivers top-tier performance, making it faster and more capable than other budget smartphones. The A13 chip ensures smooth multitasking, fast app performance, and powerful graphics, perfect for gaming and AR applications.
Camera System
The iPhone SE (2nd Generation) is equipped with a 12 MP rear camera with an f/1.8 aperture, offering impressive image quality for a budget phone. The camera includes features like Portrait Mode, Depth Control, Smart HDR, and Portrait Lighting. It also supports 4K video recording at 24/30/60 fps, delivering detailed and smooth video footage.
The 7 MP front-facing camera offers good quality for selfies and FaceTime calls, and it also supports Portrait Mode for professional-looking selfies with adjustable background blur.
Battery and Charging
The iPhone SE (2nd Generation) features an 1821 mAh battery, offering decent battery life:
- Up to 13 hours of video playback
- 40 hours of audio playback
- 10 hours of internet browsing
The device supports fast charging, which can charge up to 50% in 30 minutes with an 18W adapter (sold separately). It also supports wireless charging through the Qi standard, making charging more convenient.
Operating System and Software Features
The iPhone SE (2nd Generation) launched with iOS 13, bringing a range of features, including:
- Dark Mode: System-wide dark theme for better battery efficiency and eye comfort.
- Improved Privacy Controls: Including Apple’s Sign in with Apple feature for secure logins.
- Photos app: Enhanced photo and video editing tools.
It is upgradable to iOS 16, ensuring users have access to the latest features, updates, and security enhancements.
Connectivity
The iPhone SE (2nd Gen) supports 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 5.0, and NFC for Apple Pay. It also features dual SIM functionality, using one physical SIM and one eSIM, giving users the ability to manage two numbers simultaneously.
Reception and Legacy
The iPhone SE (2nd Gen) was praised for its combination of powerful performance, high-quality camera, and affordable price. It became popular among users who wanted an iPhone with modern features but without the high cost of flagship models. The inclusion of the A13 Bionic chip made it stand out in the budget smartphone market, offering flagship-level performance at a lower price point. The phone’s compact design and familiar features like Touch ID also made it a popular choice among fans of smaller iPhones.
Conclusion
The iPhone SE (2nd Generation) offers the best of both worlds: a compact and familiar design with the powerful performance of the A13 Bionic chip. It is an ideal choice for users looking for a budget-friendly iPhone that doesn’t compromise on speed, camera quality, or future-proofing with software updates. The iPhone SE (2nd Gen) continues to be a strong contender in the market for those who prefer smaller phones without sacrificing performance.