Apple Stores Low on iPhone SE Before September 9 Event

Apple is preparing to unveil new iPhones, watches, and AirPods on September 9. However, about a week before the event, the company is experiencing low inventory levels for various products.

In the latest edition of his PowerOn newsletter, Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman noted that many Apple products are in short supply at retail locations. While a declining inventory often signals upcoming releases, this isn’t always the case. To start, Apple appears to be running low on the widely disliked FineWoven cases and bands.

This could indicate that the end of this product cycle is near, as the fabric option was promoted as a premium and eco-friendly alternative to leather. Additionally, stock for non-FineWoven Apple Watch bands is also low, hinting that new designs may be forthcoming. The inventory for Apple Watches and AirPods has also diminished, which is expected since Apple is rumored to introduce the Apple Watch Series 10 and new AirPods during the forthcoming event.

Apple retail stores are experiencing low stock levels for various iPhone models. This includes not only the iPhones that will be discontinued once the iPhone 16 lineup is unveiled but also the iPhone SE.

Typically, such low inventory suggests an upcoming refresh, and given that it has been over two years since the iPhone SE 3 was launched, one might assume that the iPhone SE 4 will debut next week. However, that seems unlikely, as Gurman has reiterated that the budget model is not expected to be released until next year.

Additionally, the iPad mini is also becoming scarce in retail locations. While there are rumors of a new model being in development, it remains uncertain whether it will be announced this month. The iPad mini 7 is said to be a minor upgrade from the current version, with its most notable feature being a faster processor.