Quick Overview
The iPhone SE 4, Apple’s next budget-friendly phone, is creating excitement in tech circles. Set to launch in early 2025, this device is expected to offer major upgrades from its predecessor, potentially bringing high-end features at a lower price. With talk of a new design, better cameras, and support for Apple’s latest AI tech, the iPhone SE 4 could shake up the mid-range smartphone market.
Background
Apple’s iPhone SE line has been the go-to choice for those wanting Apple’s ecosystem and performance without the high price tag. The upcoming iPhone SE 4 looks to be the biggest update to the series since it began in 2016. In this article, we’ll explore everything we’ve heard about the iPhone SE 4, from when it might launch to what features it might have and how it could compare to other phones.
Launch Date and Cost
When Will the iPhone SE 4 Come Out?
Most experts and insiders seem to agree the iPhone SE 4 will launch in 2025. Here’s what we’ve heard:
- It’s expected to come out in early 2025, likely around March.
- This fits with Apple’s past spring launches for SE phones.
- Reports say production may start in December 2024, supporting an early 2025 release.
Expected Price
While we don’t know the exact price yet, here’s what rumors suggest:
- In the US, it might cost between $499 and $549.
- This is a bit more than the SE 3’s $429 starting price.
- In India, it could start around ₹45,000, close to the SE 3’s launch price of ₹43,999 in 2022.
Even with a possible price bump, the SE 4 should still be Apple’s cheapest new iPhone, offering good value for its features.
Look and Screen
The iPhone SE 4 is rumored to bring the biggest design change to the SE line yet. Here’s what we’re expecting:
New Design
- Moving away from the old iPhone 8-like design of past SE models.
- Adopting a more modern look, maybe like the iPhone XR or even iPhone 14.
- Getting rid of the thick borders and physical home button.
- Possibly adding Face ID instead of Touch ID.
Better Screen
- A bigger 6.1-inch OLED screen, much better than the SE 3’s 4.7-inch LCD display.
- Might have a notch, matching Apple’s current design style.
- Likely to keep a 60Hz refresh rate, to set it apart from pricier models.
This revamp could make the SE 4 much more attractive to folks wanting a fresh-looking iPhone without the top-tier cost.
Performance and Specs
The iPhone SE 4 is shaping up to be a powerhouse in a smaller package. Here’s what we expect:
Chip and Memory
- Likely to have the A18 chip, the same series in the flagship iPhone 16 models.
- Probably 8GB of RAM, twice the SE 3’s amount, possibly enabling Apple Intelligence features.
Storage Choices
- Base storage might start at 128GB, up from the SE 3’s 64GB starter.
- Higher storage options may be available, but details are unclear.
Battery and Charging
- Big battery upgrade expected: 3,279mAh, a jump from SE 3’s 2,018mAh.
- Likely to keep 20W fast-charging.
- Might introduce MagSafe support to the SE line.
- USB-C charging port, following Apple’s move to universal connectors.
Connectivity
- 5G support, continuing from the SE 3.
- Wi-Fi 6 for faster wireless internet.
- Might debut Apple’s first in-house 5G modem.
Other Features
- IP68 rating for better water and dust protection, up from SE 3’s IP67.
- Possible inclusion of Apple Intelligence features, making it the cheapest iPhone with AI capabilities.
Camera Setup
The iPhone SE 4’s camera is expected to get big upgrades:
Back Camera
- Upgrade to a 48MP main sensor, a big jump from SE 3’s 12MP camera.
- Likely better low-light photos and zoom quality.
- Might include Smart HDR and Night Mode, new to the SE line.
Front Camera
- Expected 12MP front camera, up from SE 3’s 7MP.
- Might add Portrait mode and Animoji/Memoji support, if Face ID is included.
While it may not match the multi-camera setups of Apple’s priciest iPhones, these camera upgrades could really boost the SE 4’s photo skills.
How It Stacks Up
To see how the iPhone SE 4 might compare in the market, let’s look at its rumored specs next to some potential rivals:
| Feature | iPhone SE 4 (Rumored) | Google Pixel 7a | Samsung Galaxy A54 5G | OnePlus Nord 3 5G |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Screen | 6.1″ OLED, 60Hz | 6.1″ OLED, 90Hz | 6.4″ Super AMOLED, 120Hz | 6.74″ AMOLED, 120Hz |
| Chip | A18 Bionic | Google Tensor G2 | Exynos 1380 | Dimensity 9000 |
| Memory | 8GB | 8GB | 6/8GB | 8/16GB |
| Storage | 128GB+ | 128GB | 128/256GB | 128/256GB |
| Main Camera | 48MP | 64MP | 50MP | 50MP |
| Battery | 3,279mAh | 4,385mAh | 5,000mAh | 5,000mAh |
| Charging | 20W wired, MagSafe | 18W wired, wireless | 25W wired | 80W wired |
| Starting Price | $499-$549 (expected) | $499 | $449 | ~$450 |
While the iPhone SE 4 might not lead in all areas, its smooth integration with Apple’s ecosystem and potential for top-tier performance could make it a strong contender in this price range.
Possible Market Impact
The iPhone SE 4 could shake up the mid-range smartphone market:
- Easier Access to Apple’s World: It might offer a more budget-friendly way into Apple’s ecosystem, potentially luring Android users.
- AI Features at a Lower Cost: If it includes Apple Intelligence features, it could be the cheapest way to experience Apple’s AI tech.
- Stirring Up the Mid-Range Market: The SE 4’s high-end processor and better camera could push other mid-range phones to offer more value.
- Possible Sales Shift: Its improved features might make it an appealing alternative to older or even current flagship iPhones, possibly affecting Apple’s higher-end sales.
Common Questions
- Will the iPhone SE 4 have 5G?
Yes, the iPhone SE 4 is expected to support 5G, carrying on from the SE 3. - Is Face ID coming to the iPhone SE 4?
While not confirmed, the new design hints that Face ID might replace Touch ID in the SE 4. - Will the iPhone SE 4 last longer on a charge?
With a rumored bigger battery, the SE 4 is likely to offer better battery life than its predecessor. - Can we expect better photos from the new camera?
The rumored 48MP main camera should noticeably improve photo quality, especially when light is scarce. - Will the SE 4 run all the latest iOS features?
With its expected A18 chip and more RAM, the SE 4 should handle all new iOS features, including possible AI functions.
Wrapping Up
The iPhone SE 4 looks set to be a big step up for Apple’s budget-friendly range. Its rumored new look, powerful A18 chip, better cameras, and potential AI features could offer great value for money. While we’ll need to wait until early 2025 to see the final product, the iPhone SE 4 seems ready to stir up the mid-range smartphone market. It could be a great choice for those wanting to join or stay in the Apple world without spending too much.
As always with rumors, take this info with a pinch of salt. Apple might change things before launch, and some features may not turn out as expected. Still, the iPhone SE 4 is definitely one to watch in the coming year.