iPhone SE 2 release date, specs rumors update: Apple to launch new budget-friendly handset without the 3.5mm headphone jack

According to the latest reports, Apple is set to unveil the next generation of the iPhone SE, which was first released in 2016. The next iteration of the handy and budget-friendly smartphone is expected to receive flagship-like features, but the future iPhone SE 2 users might also bid farewell to the 3.5mm headphone jack due to the design overhaul.

The rumors are rife that the Cupertino-based tech giant would announce the iPhone SE 2 in the first half of 2018. There were no official details from Apple to confirm this, although the latest scoop from Macotakara suggests that the iPhone SE 2 will be launched as early as next month. It is rumored that the SE 2 smartphone will arrive ahead of the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) on June 4.

The iPhone SE in different color optionsApple website

Perhaps the most intriguing part of the latest iPhone SE 2 report is the handset ditching the 3.5mm headphone jack. Apple started the trend of removing the traditional audio socket feature in 2016 with the introduction of the iPhone 7.

The said iPhone model relies on wireless AirPod accessory in order to listen to music. It looks like the iPhone SE 2 will be based on the iPhone 7 with the omission of the headphone jack. Moreover, the SE 2 will also receive the same A10 Fusion chipset as the iPhone 7.

Meanwhile, it is still uncertain if the iPhone SE 2 will be packed with wireless charging capabilities, similar to the iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, and iPhone X. However, this would require the 4-inch handset to use an all-glass material for its back portion.

Tech Radar has noted of the previous regulatory filings for the iPhone SE 2 that were spotted online, which seem to support Macotakara's claim of the device's launch in less than two months. Aside from a possible May announcement for the SE 2, the regulatory filings also hinted that the device will be released in eleven different variants. This is because of the several RAM and storage options and color variants of the smartphone.