Apple’s newest mid-range handset, the iPhone SE 2020, is now open for pre-order in South Africa and will be able for delivery from Monday, 11 May during level 4 lockdown.

The handset stands out because it has the fastest processor on a smartphone, the same one found on the iPhone 11 range, including the Pro and Max. However, it is coupled with the body of an iPhone 8, and has a slightly better camera than the iPhone XR. So a lot of elements were brought together for the second-gen iPhone SE, which has garnered a lot of interest.

It is regarded as the “affordable” iPhone that will become the standard; while the Pro range remains for the premium segment. I’m sure you already read about it, but a quick recap: it’s 4.7-inches; powered by the A13 Bionic chip; Touch ID; water resistant in 1m up to 30 mins; supports wireless and fast-charging (via separate adaptor).

It has a 12MP single wide rear camera with Portrait mode; shoots in 4K @ 60fps; 5x digital zoom; and OIS for videos. The 7MP selfie-cam supports Portrait mode with controlled bokeh effects; shoots 1080p HD @ 30fps; supports burst mode and auto HDR.

iStore South Africa released its official prices today, and they are as follows:

iPhone SE 2020
64GB – R9 999
128GB – R12 499
256GB – R14 999

My thoughts – it’s an excellent phone for those who want to stay with Apple but the premium range is too expensive. As a 2020 model, you will definitely be getting updates for a long time to come, which is a huge draw card for Apple as they tend to support older hardware. I’m not sure why they brought out a 64GB model; pics are of better quality so space will run out soon. I think it’s better to go for the 128GB and pay for more iCloud storage.

If you want to pre-order or get it on contract with Vodacom, MTN and Telkom, it can be done via iStore: https://www.myistore.co.za/discover-iphone/iphone-se-gen2