Apple is seemingly preparing to give its affordable iPhone SE series a huge redesign, as recent leaks have indicated a complete aesthetic revamp that will bring it much closer to the flagship models from the company.
Dummy units shared by well-known leaker Sonny Dickson show that the next-gen iPhone SE—looking more likely to be iPhone SE 4 or iPhone 16E—will share its design with the iPhone 14, which would be a big shift in comparison to its present form factor.
The leaked dummy units, which are non-functional mockups typically used by case manufacturers to prepare accessories ahead of new device launches, showcase a modern design featuring an aluminum band and glass back construction.
These dummy models have historically proven reliable indicators of upcoming Apple devices, as case manufacturers invest heavily in obtaining accurate dimensions and design details to ensure their products are ready for launch day.
iPhone SE Design Evolves
Perhaps the most notable change revealed by the dummy models is the adoption of the iPhone 14’s design language, suggesting Apple is finally bringing its budget offering in line with its contemporary aesthetic. The device appears to maintain a single-lens rear camera setup, staying true to its position as an entry-level option while potentially offering significant imaging capabilities.
Interestingly, the dummy models don’t show evidence of certain rumored features, such as the Action Button or the Camera Control button found on iPhone 16 models. While this doesn’t definitively rule out their inclusion, it does cast some doubt on these additions, as case manufacturers would typically need to account for such physical features in their designs.
Under the hood, the new iPhone SE is expected to pack impressive specifications that could make it a compelling option in the mid-range smartphone market.
Is This the Best Budget Phone Yet?
Reports suggest it will be powered by the A17 Pro chip, bringing support for Apple Intelligence features to the SE line for the first time. The device is also rumored to include an Apple-designed modem chip and a generous 8GB of RAM, potentially offering performance that rivals more expensive models.
The camera system, while limited to a single lens, is reported to be the same 48-megapixel Wide camera found in the current iPhone 16. This suggests that despite its budget positioning, the new SE won’t compromise significantly on photography capabilities.
The naming convention for this device remains uncertain, with recent rumors suggesting Apple might break from tradition and brand it as the iPhone 16E rather than the iPhone SE 4. That could portend a repositioning of the device with regard to the wider iPhone roster.
Apple will allegedly introduce this new iPhone SE in March or April, continuing as the company’s cheapest iPhone offering. Although some hint at a possible price hike, Apple has reportedly been pushing to keep it below the $500 level in order to be an appealing option for people looking to get into the iOS ecosystem.
This major update of the iPhone SE lineup seems to signal that Apple is serious about bringing modern features and design down to a price point that might make it even more attractive to budget-conscious users or those seeking a compact iPhone experience with leading-edge capabilities.
