Neil Hughes
Though some early rumors suggested the iPhone SE would have an iPhone 6-like design, it actually shipped in a chassis virtually identical to the iPhone 5s. However, some Chinese manufacturers have made iPhone SE-sized casings styled like the iPhone 6s, which prompted one publication to build their own fully functional so-called "iPhone 6 SE."
Taking the parts from an official iPhone SE and cramming them into a new iPhone 6s-style backplate, Computer Bild constructed their own Frankenstein's monster handset. Designed to look like an iPhone 6s, including rounded edges, the backplate comes in a smaller 4-inch form factor to fit the iPhone SE.
The publication warned that building the "iPhone 6 SE" is not for the faint of heart, requiring one of its most experienced engineers and more than two hours of time for the conversion. Things like replacement tape were also necessary to make sure the battery doesn't rattle around inside the case.
"Only attempt the iPhone conversion if you're a pro. If you have never opened an iPhone before, you are most likely going to fail," they advised.
Knock-off Chinese companies who made the phony "iPhone 6 SE" backplates included the official Apple logo and the iPhone 6 model number, but Computer Bild cautioned that this is not a high-quality part. The Lightning and headphone connectors do not rest flush with the edge of the device, and buttons are difficult to press. There are also some cosmetic changes, including a camera hole that actually cuts through the casing's antenna lines.
Still, considering its low price (rear shells can be bought for under $20), testers said the "iPhone 6 SE" is "suitable for daily use." They believe it may be a better fit for users who have out-of-warranty iPhone 5 units, rather than those looking for a curved chassis for the iPhone SE.
Launched last week, the 4-inch iPhone SE has the same chamfered edges as the iPhone 5s and the iPhone 5. Apple is expected to introduce a new look for the flagship 4.7- and 5.5-inch models with a next-generation "iPhone 7" this September.
Charles Martin
Malcolm Owen
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14 Comments
I don't care who you are, that's just cool.
Interesting waste of time and money. I guess they got tired of making unicorn saddles and wanted to target a market with a slightly higher potential number of customers.
For those people who missed the camera bump.
"This is for someone on a budget who doesn't want to spend money on the iPhone 6"
Call me crazy, but professionally, I bill out at over $200 an hour for my time. If it took this guy 1 hour to dis-assemble, then another to re-assemble, plus whatever time in between, that's $600 of billable time to me and I think you'd be mad not to just spring for the more expensive iPhone if you have any sort of better use of your time.