Apple’s entry-level iPhone SE 4 will be an exceptional smartphone
iPhone SE 4 dummy units (image: Sonny Dickson via X)
Based on the latest murmurs from the rumor mill, here’s what Apple’s fourth generation iPhone SE, sometimes referred to as the “iPhone 16E,” is expected to feature:
Design:
• Display: The iPhone SE 4 is expected to have a 6.1-inch OLED display with a resolution of 2532 x 1170. This would be a significant upgrade from previous SE models which used LCD panels, offering better contrast and color reproduction. The design is rumored to resemble the iPhone 14, featuring flat sides and potentially a notch rather than the older Home button design.
• Biometrics: It’s anticipated to include Face ID, moving away from the Touch ID found on previous SE models, providing a more modern and secure unlocking method.
Specifications:
• Chipset: The device is expected to be equipped with Apple’s A18 chip, matching the performance capabilities of the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus. This would be a substantial upgrade, enabling features like Apple Intelligence.
• RAM: Expected to come with 8GB of RAM, doubling the amount found in the current iPhone SE (2022), which should significantly improve multitasking and performance.
• Storage: Base storage might start at 128GB, aligning with recent trends to offer more space as standard.
• Camera: There’s talk of a single 48MP rear camera, an improvement over the current model, alongside a 12MP front-facing camera. This upgrade would enhance photo quality, particularly in low light, without adding the complexity of multiple lenses.
• Battery: The capacity is rumored to be around 3,279 mAh, a notable increase from the 2,018 mAh in the current SE, suggesting better battery life.
• Connectivity: It will likely feature USB-C for charging, in compliance with EU regulations, and might include Apple’s first in-house 5G modem, potentially improving 5G performance and reducing dependency on external modem providers like Qualcomm.
• Other Features: Expected to support Wi-Fi 6, have an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, and might include an Action Button, similar to the one found on some higher-end models.
Availability and Pricing:
• Release Date: Multiple sources suggest a release in the spring of 2025, with some specifics pointing towards March or April. This aligns with past launch patterns for the iPhone SE but with a larger gap since the last model, hinting at more significant updates.
• Price: Rumors indicate a starting price around $499 to $549, which would be higher than the current iPhone SE but still positioned as a budget-friendly option compared to Apple’s flagship models.
With generative AI a key feature in the current smartphone market and Apple going all-in with Apple Intelligence, the only way the iPhone SE can keep up is to upgrade its specifications far more than the jump made by previous SE models.
The smartphone industry has moved to extended support periods, and Apple is no different. The original iPhone [SE] from 2016 only left its support window in Sept 2024, eight and a half years after its launch.
If 2025’s iPhone SE wants to have even half that lifespan, Tim Cook and his team must ensure that it supports Apple intelligence into 2029 and beyond. There’s no point short-changing the specifications today because it would deny those who buy the new iPhone SE a long and hopefully productive life with Apple’s latest phone.
MacDailyNews Take: If they can get the starting price to $499, this will be a very successful iPhone, especially in developing countries!
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