Apple iPhone SE 4: Rumored Features, Pricing, Release Date, and Specs

The next iteration of Apple's affordable smartphone, the iPhone SE 4, seems to be moving away from the classic iPhone 8-inspired look to a fresh, modern aesthetic. According to reports from well-known Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple’s goal with the SE 4 is clear: combine budget-friendly pricing with advanced features often reserved for flagship devices.Photo via 9to5Mac // A concept image of Apple's 2025 iPhone SE 4.

Key Takeaways

1. New Design: Inspired by iPhone XR or iPhone 12
2. Bigger Battery & OLED Display: A 3,279mAh battery paired with a 6.06-inch OLED screen
3. Performance Boost: Equipped with the A18 chipset and 8GB RAM
4. Anticipated Release: March-April 2025, with production starting December 2024
5. Starting Price: Projected at $499 to $549 in the U.S.

Design & Display

Expect a bold shift in design, as the iPhone SE 4 is rumored to adopt an iPhone XR or iPhone 12-inspired look, a step away from the previous SE’s home button and Touch ID. This facelift includes a larger, 6.06-inch OLED display with a 2532 x 1170 resolution, adding a level of vibrancy that fans have eagerly awaited in Apple’s budget line. With the shift to Face ID and slimmer bezels, the SE 4 might finally look like it belongs in the iPhone 12 or iPhone 14 generations, offering users a full-screen experience without the premium price tag.Photo via BGR // A concept rendering of the Apple iPhone SE 4's front display and rear camera.

Performance & Power

Apple's A18 chipset will reportedly drive the iPhone SE 4, mirroring the iPhone 16’s base models. Coupled with 8GB of RAM, this upgrade is substantial, especially for a budget model, and should deliver a seamless multitasking experience while maintaining Apple’s legendary device longevity.

"Having the same chipset and RAM as the flagship iPhones is important... it means the iPhone SE 4 will be able to run all the AI tricks and features that are going to start to roll out next week as part of Apple Intelligence." – Industry Source

Alongside the processor boost, the SE 4’s 3,279mAh battery—a notable increase from the SE 3’s 2,018mAh—promises all-day battery life, with 20W wired and 15W wireless charging. And yes, MagSafe compatibility could be in the mix, marking a significant quality-of-life improvement for budget-conscious Apple fans.Photo via Mashable // Another concept rendering of Apple's upcoming 2025 budget-friendly smartphone, the iPhone SE 4. Pictured in green.

Photography: Keeping It Simple but Strong

For photography, Apple is sticking to a single-lens rear camera but upgrading to a 48MP sensor—a substantial improvement over the 12MP found on the SE 3. This camera setup, combined with Smart HDR and Night Mode, aims to deliver high-quality photos without complicating the user experience. On the front, a 12MP selfie camera will ensure decent clarity for both photos and video calls.

Connectivity & Durability

With Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, and USB-C, the iPhone SE 4 will align with Apple’s shift to industry standards, making the device more versatile and adaptable for future technology. An IP68 water and dust resistance rating is also anticipated, bringing peace of mind for those prone to spills or rougher conditions.Photo via Apple Inc. // An image of Apple's current iPhone SE model, the iPhone SE 3. This image showcases the Touch ID home button and display of the current iPhone SE generation.

Price & Release

Apple appears ready to unveil the iPhone SE 4 between March and April 2025. Reports suggest production will kick off in December 2024, with a projected starting price between $499 and $549 in the United States.

Apple’s approach to the SE line has always been about balance—combining affordability with core features from its higher-end siblings. While a bit pricier than the SE 3, the SE 4’s upgrades, from design to power, make it an attractive proposition for budget-focused buyers who still want a slice of the Apple ecosystem.

With Apple Intelligence and a more modern design, could the SE 4 become the go-to budget choice in Apple’s lineup? As always, official announcements will clarify the final details, but from the look of things, this is the SE model we’ve been waiting for.

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Oliver West

Journalist

With 5 years of experience in tech journalism, Oliver West focuses on creating detailed how-to guides, list articles, and practical tips for optimizing the Apple experience. Whether you're troubleshooting a device or exploring hidden features, Oliver’s guides are trusted by Apple users around the world.