NEW YORK: Apple Inc will likely announce a new low-cost version of its iPhone SE with 5G capabilities at its annual spring product launch event on Tuesday, analysts say.

The iPhone maker is also expected to launch a new version of the iPad Air and a high-end Mac Mini at the event.

Apple’s iPhone SE is currently priced at $399. CFRA Research analyst Angelo Zino said Apple could attract more price-sensitive consumers if the price stays the same for the new version.

“It could potentially improve our iPhone unit estimate for 2022 if they keep that price unchanged,” Zino said. “The iPhone SE is really aimed at a lot of first-time buyers on the iPhone ecosystem, which can be younger individuals, where their parents are buying this device.”

The new phone is said to be the first update to the iPhone SE model in two years and is rumored to come with an improved camera and faster processor.

The United States, Japan and Western Europe have been the top markets for iPhone SE sales in recent years, said analyst Ryan Reith of IDC. Reith said these regions will likely remain the primary markets following the planned launch of the third-generation iPhone SE.

“We probably won’t see big geographic shifts,” Reith said, adding that he expects the new iPhone SE to account for 10% of iPhone shipments globally after launch.

iPhones with 5G capabilities have been a big part of Apple’s attention for its flagship, with its latest iPhone 13 model showcasing custom 5G antennas and radio components for faster speeds as customers seek powerful devices with better connectivity.

But some analysts still point to the limitations of 5G technology globally.

Congress is currently considering a bill to limit Alphabet’s Apple and Google-run app stores, which would require companies to allow sideloading. Apple argued that such a practice would pose a security risk because it tightly controls store apps to protect users.

“Currently in most countries around the world, this technology (5G) just isn’t good enough to create a unique and differentiated experience…the fact that the iPhone SE comes with 5G is more of a way to enable users to take advantage of 5G as this technology evolves over the next two years,” said Runar Bjorhovde, research analyst at Canalys.

Zino said he doesn’t anticipate any service or accessory launches at Tuesday’s event, though an unexpected announcement in the services sector is always possible.

Apple typically holds three events each year to launch new products, starting in the spring and announcing the launch of its latest line of iPhones just before the holiday shopping season.

In response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Apple said on March 1 that it had suspended all product sales in Russia. The company also said it stopped all exports to its sales channels in the country and limited Apple Pay and other services in Russia.

Russian state media, RT News and Sputnik News, are no longer available for download from the Apple Store outside of Russia.