Next iPhone SE to Feature 4.7-Inch Display, 2023 Version to Have Hole Punch Full Screen Design

[sublunar]

Very possible. The rumor also suggested the processor will get an upgrade. Not sure this will require a "Plus" model, but we'll see. Either way, we are talking about retaining a legacy "Home Button" design for now while saving the XR-based form factor for a future iteration.

The Plus model would only be needed for the big battery - like the 12 mini the smaller battery with 5g might reduce battery life to unacceptable levels.

Look at the following battery sizes:

iPhone 8 Plus: 2691 mAh
iPhone SE 2020: 1821 mAh

iPhone XR: 2942 mAh

iPhone 12 mini: 2227 mAh
iPhone 12: 2815 mAh

So an 8 Plus sized iPhone would have battery life close to the 12 - I believe it had a higher density 5.5" screen too.

 

[mkoesel]

The Plus model would only be needed for the big battery

Agree. It's going to be interesting to see how it plays out.