The iPhone SE has been Apple’s budget-friendly entry point into iOS for several years. But with an outdated design and lackluster features, the current SE 3 has failed to generate much excitement. Thankfully, substantial changes are rumored for the next-gen iPhone SE 4 that could make it competitive again.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll break down all the latest leaks and rumors surrounding the design, specs, pricing and release timeline for Apple’s upcoming iPhone SE 4.
Outdated Design Getting a Major Overhaul
The iPhone SE 1-3 have recycled the same basic iPhone 6/7/8 design for over half a decade now. This dated look with huge bezels sticks out like a sore thumb compared to modern iPhones.
Thankfully, the iPhone SE 4 is finally slated for a design overhaul according to reputable sources like Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. The current rumors indicate it will adopt a similar aesthetic as the iPhone 14 series:
- 6.1-inch display – Same size as iPhone 14, a big jump from 4.7-inches
- OLED screen – Brighter and more vivid colors. First OLED iPhone SE.
- Flat edges – Replaces the rounded sides for a boxier look
- Notch – Will reuse iPhone 14’s smaller notch rather than dynamic island
- Single rear camera -12MP main sensor expected, up from 8MP on SE 3
This represents a major upgrade over the archaic look of the SE 3. The larger OLED display will be a welcome improvement, bringing the SE 4’s front design closer to modern iPhones. Flat sides also create a more premium and robust aesthetic.
The single rear camera is disappointing but expected. It will be far higher quality than the ancient sensor on the SE 3 though, improving image quality substantially.
Overall, while not as sleek as the flagship iPhone 15, the SE 4 will shed the terribly outdated look that held back past SE models. It provides a good balance of modern design and affordability.
Will Use Apple’s Own 5G Modem Chip
One of the big upgrades coming in the iPhone SE 4 is that it will likely use Apple’s own custom designed 5G modem chip for the first time.
Previous iPhones relied on 5G modem chips sourced from Qualcomm. But Apple acquired Intel’s modem business in 2019 and has been developing its own 5G chipset since.
Benefits of Apple’s custom 5G modem include:
- Lower costs – Won’t have to pay Qualcomm licensing fees
- Better efficiency – Optimized for Apple devices
- Greater control – Can improve modem to their needs
Many experts believe Apple has timed its 5G modem launch to coincide with the iPhone SE 4 in 2024. This will provide a more affordable way to introduce the new chip before bringing it to more expensive iPhones.
Utilizing their own modem gives Apple greater control over 5G capabilities and costs. This is a savvy long-term investment that could improve connectivity and value across all iPhone lineups.
Processor & Performance
Despite its low cost, past iPhone SE models have utilized the latest A-series processors powering the flagship iPhones released the same year.
Expect this trend to continue with the iPhone SE 4 likely featuring the blazing fast A16 or A17 Bionic chip. This will give it performance that easily beats many premium Android flagships.
Here are the probable processor and performance specs:
- Apple A16 or A17 – Same chip as 2023/2024 iPhone 15 series
- 6GB RAM – Matches iPhone 14 and should be sufficient
- Excellent CPU speeds – On par with pricier iPhones for fast app performance
- Great GPU speeds – Enables smooth gaming for a budget device
- Top-tier ML performance – Speedy Core ML tasks thanks to Apple’s NPU
The only potential caveat is if Apple decides to limit CPU/GPU speeds somewhat. But performance should still impress given the advanced Silicon. Plus the A16/A17 chips have integrated neural processing units that excel at machine learning.
Overall, expect silky smooth performance and long-lasting software support from the iPhone SE 4 reminiscent of Apple’s more expensive flagships.
Modern Features: USB-C and Action Button
Two new features rumored for the iPhone SE 4 are:
USB-C Connector
After over a decade, Apple is finally moving away from Lightning ports to USB-C. This universal standard already exists across Macs, iPads and rival phones.
Rumors indicate USB-C will debut on the iPhone 15 series coming in late 2023. The iPhone SE 4 will likely inherit this new connector in 2024.
- Faster transfer speeds – Though maybe still capped on iPhone SE
- Easier connectivity – Use same cables as Macs, iPads, etc
- More durability – Sturdier port than Lightning
- Greater compatibility – Works with more accessories
Switching to ubiquitous USB-C marks a big shift for Apple. It’s a consumer-friendly change that the iPhone SE 4 will also benefit from.
Action Button
Apple introduced the new Action button on the iPhone 14 Pro models. This customizable control replaces theSIM card slot.
Leaks suggest the iPhone SE 4 will also adopt the Action button when it launches in 2024.
- Quick access – Launch apps or features with one tap
- Customizable – Set to desired shortcut
- Convenient control – Useful for everyday tasks
While a minor addition, the Action button adds more quick access and personalization to the iPhone experience. Including it on the iPhone SE 4 helps bring greater feature parity with pricier iPhones.
How Will Pricing Change?
The iPhone SE has been Apple’s only sub-$400 iPhone for several years. But with its redesign and added features, analysts expect the iPhone SE 4 will see a price hike.
Here’s an overview of iPhone SE pricing history and expectations:
| Model | Starting Price |
|---|---|
| iPhone SE (2016) | $399 |
| iPhone SE (2020) | $399 |
| iPhone SE (2022) | $429 |
| iPhone SE 4 (2024) | $499 expected |
Higher prices for components and inflation likely make it impossible for Apple to launch the iPhone SE 4 below $500. And with its new look and capabilities, a $70 bump to a $499 price point seems reasonable.
This may turn off some budget shoppers. But for $499, the SE 4 would still be far cheaper than the iPhone 14 base model at $799. And its power and design will be on par with 2023’s flagship iPhones versus past SE models that looked 5+ years outdated.
Considering its significant improvements, a $499 entry point for the iPhone SE 4 sounds like an appropriate value in the current economic climate.
Release Date: Launching in Early 2024?
Most rumors point to an early 2024 launch timeframe for the iPhone SE 4, likely in March or April.
This matches the Spring release cycle of prior SE models:
- iPhone SE (2016) – March 2016
- iPhone SE (2020) – April 2020
- iPhone SE (2022) – March 2022
However, some sketchier rumors suggest the SE 4 has been delayed until 2025. We view this as unlikely given the momentum behind its redesigned specs.
A 2024 launch better positions the SE 4 as the most affordable entry point into the new iPhone 15 and USB-C ecosystem. An early 2025 release sounds too late.
Expect Apple to stick to March/April 2024 to maximize sales of the redesigned budget iPhone SE 4. This gives it about a year of lead time on manufacturing.
Should You Wait for the iPhone SE 4?
If you need a new iPhone now, the iPhone 14 series provides the best combo of features and performance. But for those seeking an affordable iOS device, waiting for the iPhone SE 4 could be worth it.
Reasons to Wait for iPhone SE 4:
- Much sleeker modern design
- Bigger and brighter OLED display
- Vastly improved rear camera
- Faster A16/A17 processor
- Added Action button and USB-C
Why You May Want iPhone SE 3 Now:
- Super cheap $429 price
- Very compact 4.7-inch size
- Don’t mind outdated design
- Want Touch ID home button
Overall, the iPhone SE 4 looks to be a major upgrade over the current SE 3 that still feels stuck in the past. If you can hold off until early 2024, the SE 4 will likely be worth the wait for budget shoppers wanting modern iPhone capabilities at a reasonable price.