It’s been reported recently that Apple will unveil the iPhone SE 4 early in 2025, which paints an intriguing picture. Apple’s budget smartphone could deliver significant enhancements users have long awaited with a design that may resemble the iPhone 14, as well as a host of anticipated upgrades.
Design Insights from Case Leaks
A recent leak from reliable tipster @SonnyDickson has revealed images of what seems to be a case for the iPhone SE 4. The design looks very similar to the current iPhone SE 3, with its button placements and rear camera bump remaining the same. It features familiar cut-outs for the charging port and mute switch, indicating that core design elements have been maintained.
There are, however, more significant changes expected in design. Reports indicate that Apple will likely eliminate the Home button and Touch ID in favor of Face ID, a significant departure from Apple’s current affordable line. According to rumors, the iPhone SE 4 will have a 6.1 inch display, incorporating a notch on top, making it more similar to Apple’s recent flagship models.
Performance Upgrades and Features
There are several expected improvements to the iPhone SE 4, particularly in terms of performance. According to rumors, it will be powered by the A18 chip, which is also present on the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus. This upgrade would dramatically improve performance, allowing it to compete with other mid-range smartphones.
It may also mean improved connectivity and faster speeds if Apple includes its first in-house 5G modem. The iPhone SE is expected to be replaced with an OLED display, signaling an end to the era of LCD screens on Apple’s budget phones. A richer visual experience is promised with vibrant colors and deeper blacks as a result of this transition.
Improvements to the camera
According to tradition, the iPhone SE series has focused on a single camera system, and the new model is expected to follow that pattern. The camera quality, however, is expected to improve, with rumors suggesting that it could be upgraded to a 48MP sensor in the near future. By cropping images, this upgrade could provide 2x optical-quality zoom, as seen in the iPhone 15.
As of now, the iPhone SE does not feature a night mode feature. If this feature were added to the iPhone SE 4, its photography capabilities would significantly improve, particularly in low-light conditions, making it an attractive option for photographers.
Pricing and Market Position
A price increase is expected for the iPhone SE 4 compared to the current iPhone SE, which currently costs $429. As a result of the anticipated upgrades and the general increase in smartphone prices across the market, this hike is likely to occur. With such an increase, the iPhone SE’s budget-friendly status might be threatened, especially when compared to smartphones like the Pixel 8a and the OnePlus 12R, which both cost $499.
Conclusion: What’s Next for the iPhone SE 4
Several rumors have been surrounding the iPhone SE 4 since its predecessor launched in 2022. With a refreshed design, enhanced camera capabilities, and enhanced performance, the upcoming model is set to be the most significant update to the iPhone SE series since its introduction in 2016. There is much anticipation around how closely the final product will resemble the many leaks and rumors that have been circulating in the tech community in the run up to its official announcement, set for early 2025.
