The highly anticipated iPhone SE 4 is set to redefine Apple’s budget smartphone lineup, with a spring 2025 release expected to mark the first update to the series in three years. As rumors swirl, here’s what we know about the five significant upgrades coming to the next-generation iPhone SE.
Revamped Design and OLED Display
Apple is giving the iPhone SE 4 a modern facelift, breaking away from its dated iPhone 8-inspired design. The SE 4 will reportedly adopt the sleek look of the iPhone 14, featuring a 6.1-inch OLED display with flat edges, a smaller notch, and Face ID. While the device will retain a single rear camera setup, it will still deliver an aesthetically modern appearance. Display analyst Ross Young has confirmed that the SE 4 will use the same high-quality OLED panel as the iPhone 14, sourced from BOE and LG Display.
USB-C Charging Port
In a move driven by European regulations, Apple will transition the iPhone SE 4 to a USB-C charging port, phasing out the Lightning connector. This change follows the iPhone 15 lineup’s adoption of USB-C, ensuring seamless compatibility with charging cables for iPads and MacBooks.
Upgraded Cameras
The iPhone SE 4 will pack a significant punch in the photography department. Rumors suggest it will inherit the 48MP rear camera sensor from the iPhone 15, a major leap from the 12MP sensor found in the SE 3. Additionally, the front-facing camera will likely see an upgrade to a 12MP sensor, providing improved clarity for selfies and video calls.
Enhanced Performance with A18 Chip and 8GB RAM
Powered by the A18 chip and 8GB of RAM, the iPhone SE 4 will deliver flagship-level performance at an affordable price. This combination is expected to unlock Apple Intelligence features like advanced writing tools, Photos Clean Up, Genmoji, and the Image Playground. Siri will also benefit from an update, promising enhanced functionality and responsiveness.
Apple’s First In-House Modem
Marking a major technological milestone, the iPhone SE 4 is set to debut with Apple’s first in-house modem. This breakthrough comes after Apple’s acquisition of Intel’s modem business in 2019. By reducing reliance on Qualcomm, Apple is taking another step toward complete self-sufficiency in hardware development.