While much attention is given to Apple’s flagship iPhones, the iPhone SE is a fantastic choice for those on a budget. If you’re looking for an affordable iPhone option, the SE is the way to go.
The original iPhone SE was first released in 2016, and Apple gave it a hardware update in 2020 and 2022 to keep it current. Unlike the yearly updates for traditional iPhones, the iPhone SE tends to receive updates every two years. This pattern suggests that a new iPhone SE 4 could be expected in 2025.
Here’s what we know so far about the iPhone SE 4.
iPhone SE 4: Possible Release Date and Price
While it initially seemed that the iPhone SE would only have a single iteration back in 2016, subsequent versions were released in 2020 and 2022. So, a 2025 refresh seems plausible based on this history.
Rumors have been circulating about the release date, with conflicting reports. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo initially mentioned the possibility of the iPhone SE 4 being canceled in 2023 but later suggested a potential release by 2025. With 2024 coming to a close and Apple’s typical SE model launches in the first half of the year, a 2025 release is the most likely scenario.
Despite anticipated upgrades, the iPhone SE 4 is not expected to exceed $500 in price. The current iPhone SE starts at $429, so the next-generation model will likely stay around that same price point, possibly with a slight increase. Even if the price rises slightly, it will still be more affordable than the mainline iPhone 16 or iPhone 17.
iPhone SE 4: Design
While previous iPhone SE models took design cues from older iPhones, the iPhone SE 4 is rumored to feature a new chassis design. Speculations suggest a 6.1-inch display, larger than the current 4.7-inch screen on the 2022 model.
The shift to a larger display could mean the removal of the home button for Touch ID, aligning the iPhone SE with other models featuring Face ID. However, the notch is likely to make a return, and the phone may also incorporate an Action button and transition to a USB-C port.
iPhone SE 4: Display
While previous iPhone SE models used LCD displays, the iPhone SE 4 may switch to OLED technology. OLED panels offer richer colors and better contrast, similar to flagship models but at a lower price point.
The transition to OLED would be a significant upgrade for the budget-friendly iPhone.
iPhone SE 4: Specs
Rumors suggest the iPhone SE 4 will utilize the same A18 chip as the iPhone 16, enabling Apple Intelligence features on a more limited scale. There are also speculations about an in-house 5G chip from Apple following the acquisition of Intel’s modem business, potentially enhancing the phone’s performance.
If the iPhone SE 4 supports Apple Intelligence, it could come with at least 8GB of RAM, a significant increase in power compared to previous SE models.
iPhone SE 4: Cameras
The iPhone SE 4 is expected to retain a single-lens camera setup to differentiate it from the dual and triple setups on other iPhone models. However, rumors suggest an upgrade to a 48MP camera from the current 12MP in the iPhone SE 3.
iPhone SE 4: Battery Life
One of the weaknesses of the iPhone SE is its battery life, attributed to its small size. With a potential increase in size for the iPhone SE 4, there’s room for a larger battery, possibly similar to the iPhone 14’s 3,279mAh capacity.
However, advancements like Apple Intelligence and OLED displays may lead to increased power demands, affecting overall battery life. Apple typically surprises consumers with official specs closer to launch, so these are just rumors for now.
