The upcoming iPhone SE 4, expected to launch in early 2025, is shaping up to be one of Apple’s most exciting releases, especially in the budget-friendly iPhone lineup. According to various reports, including insights from 9to5Mac and renowned journalist Mark Gurman, this next-generation iPhone SE promises a substantial overhaul, making it much more than just an affordable option. With upgraded hardware and new technology, it’s poised to challenge even some of Apple’s flagship models.
Here’s what we know so far about the iPhone SE 4, which could include some game-changing features like Apple’s first-ever in-house 5G modem.
A New Design Inspired by the iPhone 14
One of the standout features of the iPhone SE 4 will be its updated design, which draws heavily from the iPhone 14. Gone are the rounded edges and the dated home button. The new SE model is expected to feature flat sides, similar to recent iPhone models, giving it a more modern look and feel.
Additionally, it’s rumored to sport a notched OLED display, a significant upgrade over the LCD screens seen in previous SE models. The screen resolution is expected to match the iPhone 14’s at 1170 x 2532 pixels, offering users a sharper, more vibrant visual experience. However, despite the upgraded display, the iPhone SE 4 won’t include Dynamic Island, Apple’s latest interactive notch feature.
The removal of the Touch ID home button marks the full transition to Face ID, making the SE lineup more aligned with Apple’s higher-end phones. This could be a welcome change for many users who prefer biometric security without the need for physical buttons.
Powered by the A18 Chip
On the performance front, the iPhone SE 4 will pack serious power, thanks to the A18 chip. This cutting-edge chip, which is also expected to power the upcoming iPhone 16, will feature a 5-core GPU and come with 8GB of memory. The combination of this advanced processor and increased RAM will ensure that the iPhone SE 4 can handle demanding tasks, from gaming to AI-powered functions.
This makes the iPhone SE 4 a formidable device in terms of performance, bringing it in line with Apple’s premium phones. Apple Intelligence capabilities, seen in its top-tier models, are expected to work seamlessly on this device.
Camera Upgrades
When it comes to photography, the iPhone SE 4 is rumored to sport a significant upgrade. Borrowing components from the iPhone 15, the SE 4 will likely feature a 48MP main camera. This would be a huge leap from the previous SE models and will allow users to take detailed photos and benefit from advanced zoom capabilities. The iPhone SE 4 will reportedly support 2x zoom images at 12MP resolution, making it more versatile in capturing detailed shots.
However, unlike the flagship iPhones, the SE 4 is expected to stick to a single rear camera, meaning it will miss out on the ultra-wide and telephoto lenses. For selfie lovers, the 12MP front-facing camera will deliver sharp, high-quality images, enhancing video calls and social media posts.
Apple’s First 5G Modem: A New Frontier
One of the most intriguing aspects of the iPhone SE 4 is that it could become the first iPhone to feature Apple’s own 5G modem. Apple has been working on its own modem technology for years, and now it appears ready for debut. This 5G modem will be capable of handling Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GPS alongside 5G connectivity, marking a significant shift away from relying on third-party suppliers.
This modem is also said to drastically reduce battery consumption, especially in Low Power Mode. For users, this could translate into longer battery life and more efficient use of power during data-heavy tasks like video streaming and downloads. The fact that Apple might introduce this component in the SE line, rather than a flagship model, suggests it could be a test run to perfect the technology before rolling it out across their entire iPhone range.
Expected Launch and Final Thoughts
The iPhone SE 4 is expected to be unveiled between March and May 2025, aligning with previous SE release timelines. With rumors that Apple has already begun sourcing OLED panels for this device, it seems like the launch could be just a few months away.
The iPhone SE 4 represents one of the biggest overhauls in the SE line’s history, bringing together a fresh design, significant camera upgrades, and the debut of Apple’s own 5G modem. Its combination of high-end features and a more affordable price point will likely make it an appealing option for users who want flagship performance without the premium cost.
With all these upgrades, it’s clear that Apple is positioning the iPhone SE 4 not just as an entry-level option but as a powerful, capable phone that can compete with many of today’s top smartphones. Whether you’re a budget-conscious consumer or just a fan of compact phones, the SE 4 will likely be worth the wait.
