Entry-level iPhones will feature the A18 chip from Apple Intelligence

Rumors about the next generation of the iPhone SE have been circulating for a while, and a recent report has provided more details on what to expect from the upcoming model. One notable revelation is that the new iPhone SE might be equipped with the A18 chip, indicating Apple’s intent to incorporate Apple Intelligence features into even its entry-level iPhones and iPads.

The fourth-generation iPhone SE, expected to debut next year, could feature the A18 chip, as reported by reliable leaker Ice Universe. This chip is set to power the entire iPhone 16 lineup, including non-Pro models, and could come with 6GB or 8GB of RAM. Historically, both Pro and non-Pro iPhone models have shared the same family of chips, with differences in CPU and GPU cores. However, starting with the iPhone 14, Apple began differentiating the Pro models more distinctly in terms of performance, reserving the latest chip for the higher-end versions.

Apple’s recent push for AI capabilities, introduced with the A17 Pro chip in the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max, suggests that the A18 chip will be necessary for all new iPhone 16 models to access the latest features in iOS 18. This strategy implies that even the new iPhone SE will need the A18 chip to support these advancements, continuing Apple’s trend of equipping the SE with the latest chips.

The iPhone SE has always inherited the chip from the most recent iPhones, so it’s not entirely surprising that the new model would feature the A18. However, given the gap since the last SE update, there was a possibility Apple might opt for an older chip like the A16 Bionic. But with AI features becoming a significant selling point, Apple appears committed to using the latest technology across its devices.

Additionally, rumors of a new HomePod with a touchscreen powered by the A18 chip suggest that Apple might extend this chip to its entry-level iPad and iPad mini as well. Although older devices won’t receive the Apple Intelligence features, it’s likely that all new iPhones and iPads will incorporate these AI capabilities, aligning with Apple’s broader strategy to enhance user experience through advanced technology.