Small is the new big as Apple announces 4-inch iPhone SE

Apple is to launch a new smaller iPhone called the iPhone SE that will also be the company’s “most affordable” model.

The technology giant said that most users’ first iPhone was often one of their older, 4-inch sized devices, and led to the creation of the SE, which is the same size as 2013′s iPhone 5s.

Greg Joswiak, vice president of iOS, announces the new iPhone SE in California (Marcio Jose Sanchez/AP)

Apple chief Tim Cook said: “The iPhone is the most loved smartphone in the world, and today we are welcoming a new member to the family.”
Despite its smaller size and cheaper price – beginning at $399 (£277) – the SE will come with up-to-date specifications including a 12-megapixel camera and the ability to record video in 4K – four times that of HD.

The iPhone SE looks more like the iPhone 5 than the 6 (Marcio Jose Sanchez/AP)

It has been suggested the move to introduce a four-inch phone for the first time since 2013 is an attempt to further break into the emerging markets in India and China.
Pre-orders for the new iPhone will begin on March 24, with the device going on sale on March 31 in the UK.