Apple’s strategy with the iPhone SE series has always centered on attracting customers from the budget Android market, enticing them into the seamless iOS ecosystem without a hefty price tag. Nearly three years have passed since the launch of the iPhone SE 3, and in light of recent advancements in budget Android smartphones, there is a pressing need for Apple to refresh its iPhone SE lineup to maintain competitiveness.
In recent months, discussions surrounding the iPhone SE 4 have intensified, unveiling intriguing insights into Apple’s forthcoming budget-friendly device. Through various sources and direct communications, a clearer picture is emerging regarding what Apple might be planning as part of this release.
Breaking the Naming Norm?
Interestingly, the forthcoming budget phone may not bear the traditional iPhone SE 4 moniker. Reports from renowned Chinese leaker Fixed Focus Digital suggest it might be branded as the iPhone 16E, a designation that aligns it closer with Apple’s elite iPhone series. Since the debut of the first-generation iPhone SE in 2016, the SE label has become synonymous with Apple’s budget offerings.
Design Inspired by the iPhone 16 Series
Initial speculation indicated that the new iPhone SE would share its design with the iPhone 14, but Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has recently asserted that the device is set to feature an “iPhone 16-level design”along with an upgraded facial recognition sensor. There are conflicting reports regarding the display format, with some analysts, like Ross Young, predicting it to sport a notch similar to that found on the iPhone 14.
Additionally, dummy units for the iPhone SE 4 have confirmed the presence of a single rear camera sensor, likely the same 48MP sensor utilized in the iPhone 16.
Embracing Larger Displays
Traditionally, the iPhone SE models have launched with a compact 4.7-inch screen. However, as we move into 2025, Apple appears ready to embrace a larger 6.1-inch LTPS OLED display with a 60Hz refresh rate for the iPhone SE 4—aligning it more closely with the standard iPhone 16 dimensions.
Performance Powered by the A18 Chip
The latest rumors surrounding the iPhone SE 4 suggest an upgrade to the A18 chip accompanied by 8GB of RAM. This configuration is already proven on the iPhone 16 and is optimized to enhance Apple’s AI capabilities. Some reports speculate a more advanced A18 Pro chip may also be included, though this could challenge Apple’s pricing strategy for a budget device.
Price Implications of Enhanced Features
With the anticipated upgrades, potential buyers should prepare for a price increase, shifting from the prior $429 to an estimated range of $500 to $550. For context, the Galaxy S24 FE is priced starting at $650. Although there were earlier indications of a January launch for the iPhone SE 4, Mark Gurman has indicated that the release is more likely scheduled for April.
What are your thoughts on the new iPhone SE 4? Based on the specifications mentioned, would you consider purchasing it? Share your opinions with us.
Leave a Reply