Andrew Orr
Leaked images of the next iPhone SE provide an early glimpse at its updated design and reveal new details about the budget-friendly device, including some color options.
Apple's budget-friendly iPhone SE lineup has always been about offering great performance at an affordable price. Now, rumors suggest the fourth-generation model will pack even more premium features, making it an exciting option for value-conscious buyers.
Here's everything we've heard so far about the iPhone SE 4.
A modern design for a fresh look
The iPhone SE 4 is expected to get a significant makeover, resembling the iPhone 14. This means Apple might ditch the familiar Home button in favor of an edge-to-edge display with a notch.
Sonny Dickson, known for reliably sharing dummy models of upcoming iPhones, has unveiled images on Thursday that give us an early glimpse of the iPhone SE 4. These images offer a few notable details about the new device, including its expected color options of black and white.
First look at the iPhone SE 4 Dummy pic.twitter.com/qL0COgmPPA
— Sonny Dickson (@SonnyDickson) January 16, 2025
Other reports point to a larger 6.1-inch OLED screen, a sharp upgrade from the current 4.7-inch LCD. This design shift will make room for more screen real estate — good for streaming and gaming.
Upgraded performance
Apple is rumored to equip the iPhone SE 4 with the A18 chip, the same processor used in the flagship iPhone 16. This move would ensure top-tier performance for everything from gaming to augmented reality apps.
Additionally, the new SE could debut Apple's in-house 5G modem. If true, this would boost battery efficiency while improving connectivity.
Better photos for everyday moments
The SE 4 might include a 48MP rear camera, which is a big jump from the 12MP sensor in the current model. This upgrade could mean sharper images, better low-light performance, and improved digital zoom capabilities.
While it won't match the iPhone 16 camera setup, it would still be a standout feature at this price point.
Updated ports & accessories
Apple will bring the SE in line with its newer devices by switching to a USB-C port, replacing the Lightning connector. This change meets EU regulations and simplifies charging and data transfer for users who already own USB-C accessories.
iPhone SE 4 could look like an iPhone 14Rumors also suggest MagSafe compatibility could be added, allowing users to snap on chargers and accessories for added convenience.
Affordable pricing & expected launch
Despite these major upgrades, Apple is expected to keep the iPhone SE affordable, with an estimated starting price of $499. This pricing would position the iPhone SE 4 as a solid alternative for those who want the Apple ecosystem without breaking the bank.
Production is reportedly underway, with a launch rumored for spring 2025. Apple typically unveils budget devices in March or April, so this timeline makes sense.
For example, Apple introduced the original iPhone SE in March 2016, followed by the second-generation model in April 2020. Most recently, the third-generation iPhone SE debuted in March 2022.
If the rumors hold true, the iPhone SE 4 will be a game-changer in Apple's lineup. It sounds like it will deliver great value for budget-conscious shoppers. For anyone looking to upgrade without overspending, this is one to watch.
-m.jpg)
Malcolm Owen
Amber Neely
Christine McKee
3 Comments
If you are going to
At least here in the U.S., Apple hasn't raised iPhone prices in a very long time. In fact, when inflation is taken into account, prices have actually dropped significantly over time. Even the $100 jump in the base price of an iPhone Max was accompanied by an increase in base storage that made it the same price as the prior model with the same storage. So, not really a price increase on an apples to apples basis. For this reason, I find it hard to believe that Apple is going to slap a 17% percent price increase on its most price-sensitive model, the SE. The SE buyer isn't interested in and doesn't need bells and whistles--they want a great, basic phone at a great price. They get that with the SE at $429. It's a fantastic and relatively inexpensive (for Apple) gateway drug into the Apple ecosystem. Sure, bigger screen, Face ID, 48MP sensor, blah, blah, blah are all "nice to haves" but not "must haves" for the SE buyer if they necessitate a 17% higher price. I think the price will either stay the same or maybe jump to $449, but I'll be shocked if base price goes to $499. I guess we'll find out soon enough.