Apple enthusiasts have been eagerly awaiting the launch of the iPhone SE 4, which has been a hot topic of discussion for months. Initially touted as Apple’s next budget-friendly offering, recent reports suggest that the device may come with a higher price tag than anticipated, leaving many prospective buyers disheartened.
While the iPhone SE series has traditionally appealed to those seeking a more affordable entry point into Apple’s ecosystem, the iPhone SE 4 now appears poised to stray from that narrative. With a price hike seemingly on the horizon, expectations of an ultra-affordable iPhone may be dashed.
iPhone SE 4 Price in India (Expected)
Early speculation suggested that the iPhone SE 4 could be Apple’s most economical smartphone yet, fueling excitement among cost-conscious buyers. However, recent leaks paint a different picture. According to a report from a South Korean blog, the device may debut at around KRW 800,000, which translates to approximately ₹46,000. Globally, the price is expected to be around USD 500.
For comparison, when Apple launched the iPhone SE 3 in 2022, it was priced at USD 429 (approximately ₹43,000). Despite the initial affordable pricing, the SE 3’s cost in India rose to ₹49,900 shortly after launch. With the SE 4 rumored to be priced between USD 499 and USD 549, or ₹43,000 to ₹47,000, Apple may once again target a mid-range market segment rather than an entry-level one.
iPhone SE 4 Features (Expected)
Despite concerns over pricing, the iPhone SE 4 is expected to offer significant upgrades over its predecessor. Here’s what we might see:
- 6.1-inch OLED Display: A notable shift from the SE 3’s LCD display, offering richer colors and deeper contrasts. The removal of the home button allows for a more expansive screen, providing a modern design in line with recent iPhone models.
- Apple A18 Bionic Chipset: Rumored to be powered by the same processor as the upcoming iPhone 16, the SE 4 is expected to deliver flagship-level performance, making it a powerhouse in the mid-range segment.
- 48MP Camera: A major camera upgrade is anticipated, with the SE 4 likely to feature a 48MP primary sensor, similar to the iPhone 16. This would mark a significant leap in photography capabilities for the SE series.
- Apple Intelligence Support: The SE 4 might incorporate Apple’s latest AI-driven features, enhancing user experience with smart functionalities.
- USB Type-C Port: Following Apple’s shift to USB-C in compliance with new EU regulations, the SE 4 is expected to ditch the Lightning port, aligning with the iPhone 16 lineup.
A Tougher Sell for Budget Buyers?
The iPhone SE 4 was initially viewed as a potential game-changer for budget-conscious users hoping to experience Apple’s ecosystem without breaking the bank. However, with the rumored price increase, Apple seems to be positioning the SE 4 as a mid-range premium device rather than a truly affordable iPhone.
While the upgraded features and modern design may justify the cost, the price hike could alienate a segment of buyers who were hoping for a lower-cost alternative to Apple’s flagship models. Nevertheless, with its powerful hardware, camera enhancements, and modern connectivity options, the SE 4 is still likely to attract buyers looking for a capable iPhone at a relatively lower price than the Pro models.