Apple is rumored to have a lower-cost “iPhone 9” (also known as the “iPhone SE 2” in many reports), set to launch sometime during the first half of 2020. While the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic has reportedly delayed the release of the new device, news from inside of Best Buy indicates the new handset could see a release as early as this Sunday, April 5.
MacRumors has published a photo said to be from a Best Buy employee, which shows an Urban Armor Gear case designed for the new low-cost iPhone. While there is no specific iPhone model name on the case packaging other than “New iPhone 4.7-in, 2020.” That isn’t unusual for cases that are released before a new device officially launches.
While the MacRumors report notes they have not been able to confirm the source of the case, it does look to be on the up and up. Case manufacturers often send cases like this to retailers, including Best Buy, Target, and others, to have cases available when a device first launches.
The MacRumors source tells them that Best Buy employees have been told not to merchandise these cases until Sunday, April 5. Only time will tell if April 5 will be the release date for the new lower-cost iPhone.
The timing suggests a new “iPhone 9” will be announced sometime this week. No media events (which would be virtual due to the coronavirus outbreak) have been scheduled, so it is likely any new iPhone release would be announced by a press release.
The new lower-cost 4.7-inch iPhone is rumored to carry a $399 price tag, will feature an A13 chip, a 4.7-inch display, a single-lens rear camera, and a Touch ID button. The handset is said to be available in space gray, silver, and red color options. It is expected to offer 64GB and 128GB storage capacities.
