In early 2022, anticipation built around Apple's next budget-friendly iPhone. After the second-generation iPhone SE arrived in 2020, rumors pointed to a third-generation model — tentatively called the iPhone SE 3 — launching in the first half of the year, likely at Apple's spring event.

2022 iPhone SE: The most recent rumors

Industry watchers expected the new iPhone SE to bring 5G connectivity and a significant processor upgrade, potentially adopting the A15 Bionic chip found in the iPhone 13 lineup. The device was rumored to retain its compact form factor while gaining modern internals that would keep it competitive for years.

Pricing speculation suggested a possible starting point around $300 — roughly 25% lower than the previous model — which could position it as a serious rival to budget Android phones. Some analysts also floated alternative names including iPhone SE Plus or iPhone SE (2022).

2022 iPhone SE: Design and display

Most rumors suggested the iPhone SE 3 would keep the familiar design language of its predecessor — a 4.7-inch Retina HD display with thick bezels and a physical Touch ID home button. Unlike the flagship iPhone lineup, the SE was not expected to adopt Face ID or an edge-to-edge screen.

While some early speculation hinted at a larger "Plus" variant, the consensus leaned toward Apple preserving the compact, one-hand-friendly form factor that had defined the SE line since its debut.

2022 iPhone SE: 5G

One of the most consistent rumors centered on 5G support. Adding next-generation cellular connectivity to the budget iPhone would mark a major step, bringing faster data speeds to a wider audience. Combined with a processor upgrade, 5G was seen as the headline feature that would differentiate the third-generation SE from the 2020 model.

As with all pre-launch rumors, details remained unconfirmed until Apple's official announcement. Readers interested in related coverage can explore the iPhone tag archive or browse phone news and reviews.