Apple’s much-anticipated event on February 19 is set to reveal the iPhone SE 4, an update that promises to introduce exciting upgrades while maintaining its position as an affordable option for those seeking an entry into Apple’s ecosystem. While the iPhone SE 4’s features might not represent a major leap forward compared to the iPhone SE 3, it is shaping up to be an attractive upgrade, with a redesign, enhanced performance, and improved cameras that aim to keep it competitive in the mid-range market.
A Redesigned Look
The iPhone SE 4 is expected to break away from the old-school design seen in its predecessors. Gone are the thick bezels that have long been a hallmark of the iPhone SE series. The new design is rumored to borrow heavily from the iPhone 14, offering a more modern and premium look. This means we’ll likely see flat-edged sides, an aluminum and glass body, and a sleek notch on the front that holds the front-facing camera and Face ID sensors. Apple’s Ceramic Shield, which has proven to be tougher than most smartphone glass, could also be added for enhanced durability, making the SE 4 more resilient to drops and scratches.
Display: Bigger and Better
One of the most significant upgrades to the iPhone SE 4 is expected to be the display. The new model will reportedly sport a 6.1-inch OLED screen, which is a huge upgrade from the 4.7-inch IPS LCD panel found on the iPhone SE 3. The OLED technology will offer much better contrast, deeper blacks, and vibrant colors, elevating the viewing experience for videos, games, and photos. Although the display is likely to maintain a 60Hz refresh rate—similar to what we see on the iPhone 14 and iPhone 15—the shift to OLED will provide more clarity and a visually richer experience compared to the older LCD technology.
Performance Boost with A18 or A17 Pro
Performance-wise, the iPhone SE 4 is expected to be powered by either the A18 or A17 Pro chipset. Both chips are powerhouse performers, with the A18 being the same processor found in the iPhone 16, and the A17 Pro available in the iPhone 15 Pro. While there has been some speculation around which chipset will make its way to the iPhone SE 4, it’s safe to say that either choice will offer excellent performance, capable of handling demanding tasks like gaming, multitasking, and video editing. Both processors also support Apple Intelligence, Apple’s suite of AI-driven features. This would ensure that the SE 4 is not only fast but also intelligent, offering features like predictive text, image recognition, and even the power to use Siri in a more sophisticated manner.
Camera Improvements
The camera setup is another area where the iPhone SE 4 is expected to shine. It is rumored to feature a 48-megapixel rear camera, which is a significant step up from the 12-megapixel camera on the SE 3. This increased resolution will allow for greater detail and more flexibility when editing photos. The new iPhone SE is also expected to come with a 24-megapixel front camera, which will likely result in sharper selfies and improved video calls. With these camera upgrades, the iPhone SE 4 will be able to compete with higher-end models, providing better photography capabilities at a more affordable price point.
Bigger Battery and USB-C Charging
A key feature for many iPhone users is battery life, and the iPhone SE 4 is rumored to come with a bigger 3,279mAh battery, which should provide longer usage throughout the day. Apple is also expected to ditch the Lightning port in favor of a USB Type-C port, aligning the SE 4 with Apple’s more recent flagship devices. This move would allow for faster charging and the use of more universal accessories, making the SE 4 more convenient for users who already have USB-C chargers or cables from other devices.
MagSafe wireless charging could also be part of the package, allowing for faster, cable-free charging. The introduction of this feature could make the iPhone SE 4 more appealing to those who are used to the convenience of wireless charging.
Action Button and Customization
A potential new feature for the iPhone SE 4 is the inclusion of an Action Button, a new feature introduced with the iPhone 15 series. This button could be used to customize shortcuts for various apps or tasks, such as launching the camera, turning on the flashlight, or even activating a specific Siri command. If this feature makes its way to the SE 4, it will offer greater customization and flexibility, enhancing the user experience.
Pricing and Market Appeal
Despite all these upgrades, the iPhone SE 4 is expected to maintain an affordable price tag, making it accessible to users who want an iPhone without paying premium prices. Rumors suggest the price for the base model in India will be around Rs 49,900, which is just under Rs 50,000. Given that the iPhone SE 3 currently retails for around Rs 39,900, the SE 4’s slight price increase seems justified given the range of enhancements and added features.
At this price point, the iPhone SE 4 will likely be an attractive option for users looking for a budget-friendly iPhone with modern features, including Face ID, an OLED display, improved performance, and an upgraded camera setup. For those who want to experience Apple’s ecosystem without breaking the bank, the iPhone SE 4 could offer a compelling package.
Final Thoughts
Apple’s iPhone SE 4 is shaping up to be a solid upgrade, combining the best of modern design and performance while maintaining affordability. If the rumors are true, the new model will feature significant upgrades in display, performance, camera quality, and features like MagSafe charging and the Action Button. With a starting price likely under Rs 50,000, the iPhone SE 4 is well-positioned to appeal to a broad range of customers, from budget-conscious buyers to those seeking an affordable way into the Apple ecosystem.
Whether you’re upgrading from the iPhone SE 3 or considering your first iPhone, the iPhone SE 4 could be a highly attractive option that balances affordability with cutting-edge features. Keep an eye on the February 19 event to see if Apple delivers on the hype and unveils a device that sets a new standard for budget-friendly smartphones.
