Apple iPhone SE 4: All The Rumors So Far
- A bigger screen is coming for the iPhone SE, but will it cost you more?
- Major camera upgrade, AI power, and Face ID... but there's a catch.
- The iPhone SE 4 is about to look more like an iPhone 14—what else is changing?
Apple is gearing up for the release of the next iteration of its iPhone SE, rumored to arrive in early 2025. But with some major changes on the horizon, the iPhone SE 4 could be losing some of the core characteristics that have made it such a beloved device. Here's everything we know so far about the upcoming iPhone SE 4, from potential features to its speculated price—and why some fans of the compact, affordable iPhone might not be thrilled.
Photo via Apple Inc. // All models of iPhone SE currently released, including generation 1, 2 and 3.
A Brief History of the iPhone SE
When the original iPhone SE launched in 2016, it captured the hearts of Apple fans by offering:
- Compact Size: At a time when phones were growing larger, the iPhone SE’s smaller form factor was a standout feature.
- Affordable Pricing: With a starting price of $399, it was significantly more affordable than Apple's flagship devices, offering premium performance at a budget price.
Since then, prices and sizes have crept up. The most recent model, the iPhone SE 2022, starts at $429 and features a 4.7-inch screen. Yet, despite these changes, the SE has always been marketed as a "small phone at a small price." That’s what makes the potential changes in the iPhone SE 4 so noteworthy—and, for some, worrying.
What’s New for the iPhone SE 4?
According to leaks, the iPhone SE 4 may see the following upgrades:
- Design Overhaul: Apple is rumored to be abandoning the aging iPhone 8-style design, complete with the home button and bezels, in favor of an iPhone 14-like frame. This change would also come with a notched display.
- Bigger Screen: The screen size is expected to jump from 4.7 inches to 6.1 inches, a significant shift for those who prefer a smaller phone.
- Face ID: The home button would be removed, making room for Face ID for the first time on the iPhone SE series.
- OLED Display: Another exciting possibility is the inclusion of an OLED screen—a substantial upgrade from the LCD displays in previous SE models.
- Upgraded Camera: Rumors suggest the rear camera could see a significant jump to 48 megapixels, similar to the iPhone 15’s upgrade last year.
Photo via Yanko Design // A concept image of the upcoming iPhone SE 4.
The Rumored Price Hike
While these upgrades sound enticing, they come with a cost—literally. According to leaks reported by PhoneArena, the iPhone SE 4’s price could jump to $499 when it launches, a $70 increase over the current model. Though this would put it in line with the pricing of competitors like the Google Pixel 8a and the OnePlus 12R, the increase is still a tough pill to swallow for some.
Performance Boost with Apple Intelligence
It’s not all bad news. Apple Intelligence—the AI-powered feature suite currently rolling out to Apple’s flagship devices—will likely be supported on the iPhone SE 4. This would require a boost in performance, which means the phone is expected to run on the latest A18 chipset, offering the same high performance seen in Apple's flagship models.
Photo via 9TechEleven // Some of the rumored upgrades of iPhone SE 4.
Why the Price Increase Matters
In a time when inflation and the cost of living are top concerns, a price increase on one of Apple's most budget-friendly devices could alienate some potential buyers. For many, the appeal of the iPhone SE was always its affordability. A jump to $499, while still below flagship pricing, could push the SE into uncomfortable territory for those looking for a truly budget-friendly option.
It’s also worth considering that Apple’s strategy for the SE series goes beyond North America. In markets like China and India, where budget smartphones dominate, increasing the price of the iPhone SE 4 could make it harder for Apple to compete with cheaper alternatives.
What to Expect Moving Forward
If these rumors hold true, the iPhone SE 4 is shaping up to be a more powerful, feature-rich device than its predecessors. But with that comes a higher price, and for some users, the shift away from a smaller, more affordable iPhone may feel like the SE is losing its identity.
As always, Apple fans will have to wait for an official announcement to confirm the details. But for now, it seems clear that the iPhone SE 4 will be a major departure from the device that started it all.
Key Features of the iPhone SE 4 (Rumored)
| Feature | iPhone SE 2022 | iPhone SE 4 (Rumored) |
|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | 4.7 inches | 6.1 inches |
| Display Type | LCD | OLED |
| Chipset | A15 Bionic | A18 Bionic |
| Camera | 12 MP | 48 MP |
| Price | $429 | $499 |
| Authentication | Touch ID | Face ID |
While the iPhone SE 4 promises plenty of exciting new features, Apple will need to carefully balance innovation with the affordability that made the SE such a popular choice in the first place.
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Thank you for visiting Apple Scoop! As a dedicated independent news organization, we strive to deliver the latest updates and in-depth journalism on everything Apple. Have insights or thoughts to share? Drop a comment below—our team actively engages with and responds to our community. Return to the home page.Published to Apple Scoop on 2nd October, 2024.
The upcoming iPhone SE 4 sounds promising for Apple enthusiasts looking for a budget-friendly option with updated features
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