Apple’s iPhone SE has long served as the most affordable entry into the iPhone ecosystem, offering budget-conscious buyers a way to experience Apple’s hardware and software without the premium price tag. However, for several years, the iPhone SE has retained a design that is largely outdated, with its chunky bezels and Home button reminiscent of earlier iPhone models. That may soon change, as reports suggest the iPhone SE 4 is nearly ready for launch, and it promises to bring significant upgrades that will modernize the device.
The most striking update to the iPhone SE 4 will be its design. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, a trusted source for Apple-related news, the new iPhone SE will feature a design that closely resembles the iPhone 14. This means the SE will finally move away from the traditional bezels and Home button that have been a hallmark of its predecessors. Instead, it will adopt an edge-to-edge display with a notch at the top, paving the way for the introduction of Face ID.
For years, the iPhone SE has relied on Touch ID embedded in the Home button, which, while reliable, has been seen as outdated compared to the Face ID system found in modern iPhones. The shift to Face ID will drastically enhance security and convenience for users. By eliminating the Home button, Apple will offer a larger screen in the same footprint, giving the iPhone SE a more contemporary look and feel.
Enhanced Performance: Powered by Apple’s New Chips
One of the most exciting aspects of the iPhone SE 4 is the expected inclusion of Apple’s latest chips. Gurman notes that the device will support Apple Intelligence, Apple’s new artificial intelligence (AI) suite, which requires a powerful chip to run smoothly. While Gurman did not specify the exact chip that will power the iPhone SE 4, speculation suggests it could be equipped with either the A17 Pro chip or even the forthcoming A18 chip, the same processor found in the iPhone 16.
This upgrade in processing power would make the iPhone SE 4 a true powerhouse, capable of running AI applications and performing tasks more efficiently than previous models. With a chip on par with Apple’s flagship devices, the iPhone SE 4 could handle gaming, multitasking, and AI-driven features like voice recognition and image processing with ease.
Larger Display: Edge-to-Edge Screen Between 5.7 and 6.1 Inches
Another key upgrade coming to the iPhone SE 4 is its display. According to display expert Ross Young, the new SE will feature a screen between 5.7 inches and 6.1 inches, similar to models like the iPhone X and iPhone 11. This puts the SE 4 in line with Apple’s modern design philosophy of using edge-to-edge displays that maximize screen real estate.
The shift to a larger, all-screen display will not only enhance the visual experience but also make the iPhone SE feel more premium compared to earlier iterations. While it will likely remain an LCD panel to keep costs down, rumors suggest the possibility of an OLED display, which would offer vibrant colors, deeper blacks, and better overall image quality.
New Features: Action Button, USB-C, and Camera Upgrades
The iPhone SE 4 is also expected to incorporate several new features that have been introduced in Apple’s latest devices. One of these is the Action button, which is a customizable button that allows users to quickly access specific functions, such as launching the camera or activating a shortcut. The inclusion of an Action button would be a welcome addition for users looking for more flexibility in how they interact with their device.
In line with Apple’s recent shift to USB-C, the iPhone SE 4 is also expected to ditch the Lightning port in favor of the more universal USB-C standard. This change would align the SE with the rest of Apple’s product lineup, making it easier for users to charge their devices and transfer data.
On the camera front, rumors suggest that the iPhone SE 4 will feature a single 48MP camera, which would be a significant upgrade over the current model’s 12MP lens. While it may not have the multi-lens systems found on higher-end iPhones, the new camera is expected to deliver improved image quality and more detailed photos. However, some reports indicate that the SE 4 may lack advanced features like Camera Control, further differentiating it from the flagship iPhones.
Apple Intelligence: AI-Powered Features for Enhanced User Experience
One of the most intriguing aspects of the iPhone SE 4 is its support for Apple Intelligence, a new AI suite that Apple is rolling out across its devices. With Apple Intelligence, users will be able to enjoy AI-powered features such as enhanced Siri interactions, smarter photo organization, and more personalized app suggestions. The inclusion of Apple Intelligence in the iPhone SE 4 underscores the importance of having a powerful chip, as AI-driven tasks require significant processing power.
The iPhone SE 4 represents a major leap forward for Apple’s most affordable smartphone. With a modern design, Face ID, powerful new chips, and support for Apple Intelligence, the SE 4 will offer many of the features found in Apple’s flagship devices at a lower price point. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of the iPhone 16, the iPhone SE 4 is shaping up to be a compelling option for budget-conscious buyers who want the latest technology without breaking the bank.
As rumors continue to swirl, it’s clear that the iPhone SE 4 is on track to be a significant upgrade over its predecessors, and its early 2025 release could shake up the market for affordable smartphones.
