IPhone SE FAQs
The iPhone SE represents a more affordable option for those looking to invest in one of Apple's range of smartphones. Here, we take you through some of the most frequently asked questions about the recently announced iPhone SE (3rd Generation), from performance and design, to 5G support and battery life. Let's dive in!
- What are the basic highlights of the iPhone SE 3rd Generation?
iPhone SE 3rd Generation emerged in March 2022. Inside the compact design, one can find the signature performance and features of Apple:
- A15 Bionic chip; the same as found in the iPhone 13 series • 4.7 inch Retina HD display • Connectivity for 5G • 12MP back camera with advanced camera modes
- Touch ID baked into the home button
- Updates to iOS for several years
These things make it affordable and powerful, therefore it's more popular among users needing a smaller format phone with modern capabilities.
2. How does the new iPhone SE compare to older models?
Compared with the iPhone SE (2nd Gen), the third-generation model features
- The A15 Bionic Chip is present for a much faster performance .
- It has 5G connectivity for quicker mobile data .
- With the efficiency brought by the new chip, it also means improved battery life .
- Better photo quality improves further with better computational photography.
While iPhones, such as the iPhone 13, have been growing in size, the SE maintains a more compact form factor, similar to older iPhone models, featuring a more classic design with a home button and bevelled edges for those who still really enjoy using the smaller phone with a physical Home button.
3. Does the iPhone SE (3rd Generation) Support 5G?
Yes, the iPhone SE will support 5G; it is restricted to sub-6GHz 5G, which is more widely available but does not support mmWave 5G. In any case, the SE should be a good option for those that want to make the leap to a 5G phone without breaking their wallet.
4. How good is the camera on the iPhone SE (3rd Gen)?
The iPhone SE is available with a 12MP rear camera. While it lacks the multi-camera combinations provided in flagships, it impresses through the Apple computational photography algorithms. Key camera features include: Smart HDR 4 Deep Fusion, enhancing texture and details Portrait Mode with advanced bokeh effects 4K video recording at 60 fps
Although there isn't any Night Mode on the SE (3rd Gen), it is still quite good in dark conditions. Casual photographers will find it more than adequate to take amazing photos.
5. Does the iPhone SE (3rd Gen) have Face ID?
No, the iPhone SE-3rd Gen keeps Touch ID and doesn't rely on Face ID. The Home button itself is a fingerprint sensor for secure unlocking and Apple Pay transactions. Touch ID is quite familiar to many users. Some people just don't like Face ID, or want the faster way to unlock their phone.
6. How long does the battery last?
The battery life of the iPhone SE has gotten better than its predecessor. With one full charge, you could get:
- Up to 15 hours of video playback
- Up to 10 hours of streaming video
- Up to 50 hours of audio playback
It also supports fast charging - up to a 50% charge in about 30 minutes - with a 20W charger. It also supports Qi wireless charging, though not with MagSafe.
7. Is the iPhone SE (3rd Gen) water-resistant?
Yes, the iPhone SE has an IP67 rating meaning it can survive submersion in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. This helps guard against accidental spills, splashes, and brief drops in water.
8. How much storage does the iPhone SE offer?
The iPhone SE comes in three variants of storage:
- 64GB
- 128GB
- 256GB
In case you have plans to store several apps, photos, and videos, we would suggest the 128GB or 256GB variant. The 64GB model could be fine as a light user, but this can turn out somewhat choking in the long run.
9. How long will the iPhone SE (3rd Gen) get software updates?
Apple is known for its many-year-long software updates. The A15 Bionic chip aboard this new iPhone SE (3rd Gen) will definitely get at least 5 to 6 years of iOS updates - a support span that will mean it will continue to function and remain safe for many years to come.
10. Should you upgrade to the iPhone SE (3rd Gen)?
One should go for the iPhone SE if
- You want a more compact phone with a Home button.
- You want 5G without exactly having to spend too much money.
- You wish for a powerful processor without having to pay flagship prices.
- You prefer Touch ID over Face ID.
However, if you prefer a larger screen, multi-camera setups, or maybe even MagSafe support, then you might want to look at the iPhone 13 or 14.
Final Thoughts The iPhone SE, 3rd generation, is one of the unique devices that blend performance and modern 5G connectivity in a compact design; it's really worth the upgrade for users aiming to get an affordable iPhone with all the latest features. Although missing some of the bells and whistles from the very latest flagships, it nonetheless ticks all the boxes with Apple's signature performance and longevity down to an accessible price.
Those looking for an upgrade, who like a smaller form factor and don't really want bleeding-edge performance, will find their perfect fit in the 3rd Generation iPhone SE.