Out of nowhere, Apple just announced a February 19th product drop, and I think this is going to be a pretty big one. Today, I want to show you everything we’re expected to get at this launch, as there are a couple of interesting products that Apple has been working on. They’ve straight-up confirmed one on the invitation for this event. They’re even using different terminology for this launch, something they haven’t historically done. Right now, it’s unclear if Apple will do a proper 20- or 30-minute mini video to announce these products or just a simple 8- to 10-minute explainer. It’s something they’ve never tried before.
Apple’s Teaser and iPhone 16e
Looking at the teaser, it features the usual Apple logo in the center, notably surrounded by a circle that fades into the background. Some people think this means Apple is announcing a new AirTag, and while that is expected in 2025, this teaser actually references Apple getting rid of the home button on their cheapest iPhone, the iPhone SE, which is about to get a major redesign. However, it might not be called the iPhone SE after all. Apple could be naming it something entirely new.
There have been sporadic rumors about an iPhone 16e model, an extension of the iPhone 16 lineup but placed at the lower end. Notably, Tim Cook himself suggests a name change, saying, “Meet the newest member of the family.” Since we’re currently on the iPhone 16 lineup, this could indicate the iPhone 16e or an economy version.
Bigger Display and Key Features
Leaked images show a significantly larger device with a 6.1-inch OLED display. The home button is gone, replaced by Face ID stored in a notch. Some rumors suggested a Dynamic Island, but it doesn’t make sense for a budget model. Apple has also replaced the ring/silent switch with a new action button, which is now remappable.
USB-C is confirmed for this new budget iPhone, as Apple has had to stop selling the previous iPhone 14 and current iPhone SE in some EU markets due to the lightning port being illegal for smartphones there. Apple is likely rushing this out now in February to get phones back on shelves in these regions.
Improved Camera and Performance
On the back, the iPhone 16e still features a single camera, but it’s getting a massive upgrade with a 48MP sensor. Even though there’s just one lens, this will enable a 2x telephoto sensor crop like in other iPhones, significantly improving video quality.
Internally, Apple is rumored to include the A18 chip with 8GB of RAM, bringing Apple Intelligence features on day one. Additionally, Apple is making a massive battery upgrade, with rumors suggesting nearly a 40% capacity increase. Combined with A18 chip efficiency, battery life is expected to be excellent.
Apple’s First Custom 5G Modem
This budget iPhone will be the first to feature Apple’s custom-designed 5G modem. Apple has spent years refining its own silicon to power its chips, and now they’re applying the same methodology to another iPhone component. This should lower costs and improve battery life.
If this phone is part of the iPhone 16 family, we might also get baseline iPhone 16 upgrades, such as curved edges instead of flat ones, improved water resistance from 1m to 6m for 30 minutes, and safety features like crash detection and satellite connectivity.
New iPad Air with M4 Chip
The iPhone 16e might not be the only new product we see on February 19. There have been many rumors about new iPad Air models launching soon. These 2025 iPad Airs are expected to maintain their 11-inch and 13-inch sizes but get internal upgrades. The M2 chip might be skipped in favor of the M4, following what Apple did with the iPad Pros last year.
A new Magic Keyboard designed for the iPad Air is also in the works. The current Magic Keyboard for the iPad Air lacks the premium aluminum top case, function row, and larger trackpad found in the iPad Pro’s Magic Keyboard. Apple is changing that with a new custom Magic Keyboard that adds some premium features without reaching the Pro level.
New Budget iPad
An updated $350 base model iPad is also coming. This tablet hasn’t been refreshed since 2022 and lacks Apple Intelligence. The new version will feature the A7 Pro chip with 8GB of RAM, enabling Apple Intelligence. If you opt for the cellular version, it will include Apple’s custom 5G modem.
New MacBook Air with M4 Chip
A new MacBook Air is also imminent. Apple accidentally confirmed this in the macOS Sequoia 15.2 update, referencing new 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Air models. The design remains the same, but ports will be upgraded from Thunderbolt 4 to Thunderbolt 5 for faster speeds. The major upgrade will be the M4 chip, offering improved performance and support for two external displays while the lid is open.
A New Apple Home Hub Device?
Another potential reveal is a brand-new home hub control device from Apple. This would be a modular home control solution mounted on a wall or placed on a nightstand. It would feature a speaker and run custom software resembling the iPhone’s Standby mode, making small tasks quick and easy. While its release is months away, Apple might tease it at this event.
Final Thoughts
Apple’s February 19th event is shaping up to be their first major product drop of 2025. With a new budget iPhone, updated iPads, a new MacBook Air, and possibly a home hub device, this is a unique strategy for them. I’ll be here to cover everything as soon as it drops, so stay tuned!
