If you’ve been considering buying an iPhone but are constrained by a tight budget, purchasing an older model at a discount is a common route. However, for those who desire the latest features without wanting to break the bank, there’s exciting news for Apple fans. In 2025, Apple is expected to unveil the fourth-generation iPhone SE, which could be the most affordable and capable iPhone in its lineup, making it a perfect choice for those looking to enter the Apple ecosystem without compromising on key features.
According to industry insiders, including renowned analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, production for the iPhone SE 4 could commence as early as December 2024. If this production timeline proves accurate, we can expect the iPhone SE 4 to hit store shelves by March or April 2025. The release would give Apple a competitive edge in the mid-range smartphone market, offering a device that blends cutting-edge technology with a more accessible price tag. The SE 3, which debuted in 2022, already offered great value for money, and the SE 4 promises to further elevate this with several significant upgrades. These include the A18 series chipset, a 48-megapixel camera, and other flagship-level features, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers who still want access to Apple’s premium ecosystem.
Here are five key upgrades expected in the iPhone SE 4 compared to its predecessor, the iPhone SE 3, launched in 2022:
**1. A Bold Redesign with a Larger OLED Display:**
Perhaps one of the most noticeable changes in the SE 4 will be its complete redesign. Apple is likely to draw inspiration from the iPhone 14’s aesthetic, which will result in a sleeker and more modern look for the SE 4. This means the thick bezels and physical home button, which have defined previous SE models, will be eliminated. Instead, the iPhone SE 4 is expected to sport a 6.1-inch OLED display—a massive upgrade from the SE 3’s 4.7-inch LCD screen. This shift to an OLED screen will provide richer colors, deeper blacks, and higher contrast, enhancing the viewing experience for users. Additionally, Face ID will likely be included, bringing the SE 4 in line with Apple’s flagship devices, all of which now prioritize user security through facial recognition.
**2. Powerful Performance with the A18 Chipset:**
Under the hood, the SE 4 will likely be powered by Apple’s latest A18 chipset, a processor also found in the high-end iPhone 16 models. This chip promises to offer faster processing speeds, improved efficiency, and better overall performance, especially when handling demanding tasks like gaming or multitasking. The A18 chip is expected to deliver a smooth user experience with faster app loading times and seamless operation of apps, even those that rely on high-performance graphics. Along with this upgrade, the SE 4 is rumored to come with 8GB of RAM—double the 4GB offered in the SE 3. This increase in memory will enable better multitasking capabilities and smoother performance overall. It could also allow the iPhone SE 4 to fully integrate Apple Intelligence, Apple’s suite of AI-driven features, making it the most affordable iPhone yet to take full advantage of these innovative technologies.
**3. Enhanced Camera System with a 48-Megapixel Sensor:**
The iPhone SE 4 is set to get a significant camera upgrade with the addition of a 48-megapixel rear sensor. This will be a major leap from the 12-megapixel lens found in the SE 3. Although it may not feature the multi-lens setups of the more expensive iPhones, the SE 4’s single 48MP sensor will still deliver excellent image quality, especially with the help of Apple’s advanced computational photography software. Features like Smart HDR, Night Mode, and Deep Fusion will likely be included, enhancing the overall photography experience. The 12-megapixel front-facing camera will also likely be improved, delivering better selfies and clearer video calls.
**4. Larger Battery and USB-C Charging:**
Battery life has always been a point of concern for users of smaller iPhones, and Apple is expected to address this with the SE 4. Rumored to be equipped with a 3,279mAh battery, the SE 4 will have a much larger capacity compared to the SE 3’s 2,018mAh. This increase in battery size should translate into better overall battery life, allowing users to get more usage throughout the day. The SE 4 is also expected to retain 20W fast-charging capabilities, ensuring that users can quickly recharge their devices. Another major upgrade will be the inclusion of USB-C charging, bringing the SE 4 in line with Apple’s other products and offering greater compatibility with various accessories and charging cables. Additionally, MagSafe support could be integrated into the SE 4, allowing users to take advantage of wireless charging options and other compatible accessories.
**5. Competitive Pricing to Disrupt the Market:**
The iPhone SE 4’s specifications are certainly compelling, but its most significant selling point will likely be its price. In the United States, the SE 4 is expected to be priced between $499 and $549, a slight increase from the SE 3’s $429 starting price. However, for the value it promises, this price is still incredibly competitive. In India, the SE 4 could start at around Rs 45,000, which is only a slight increase from the SE 3’s launch price of Rs 43,999. Apple has a long history of maintaining a consistent pricing strategy, even for its flagship models. If this trend continues for the SE 4, it could prove to be a game-changer in the Indian market, offering users a budget-friendly way to experience Apple’s ecosystem while still having access to some of the latest hardware and software features. This price point would position the SE 4 as an attractive alternative to many Android smartphones in the same price range, giving consumers a cost-effective way to join the Apple ecosystem without making major sacrifices.
The iPhone SE 4, with its blend of powerful hardware, attractive pricing, and Apple’s ecosystem features, could become a huge hit, particularly in emerging markets where affordability is key. For those who have been hesitant about purchasing a flagship iPhone due to its high cost, the SE 4 offers a way to experience iOS and the latest Apple features at a fraction of the price. Whether you’re upgrading from an older iPhone model or making the switch from Android, the SE 4 looks set to offer an excellent balance of performance, design, and value for money.
