With the recent release of the iPhone 16 lineup, many are already looking ahead to Apple’s next move. Surprisingly, the next iPhone isn’t the iPhone 17, but rather the much-anticipated iPhone SE 4, which is expected to arrive in the spring of 2024.
The SE 4 is set to be the most significant upgrade in the iPhone SE series since its inception, and it’s already generating a lot of buzz for its updated design, enhanced features, and affordability. Here’s everything we’re expecting.
A New Design with a Better Display
Apple has stuck with the iPhone 8’s design for the SE series since 2020, but that’s all about to change. The iPhone SE 4 is expected to adopt a look inspired by the iPhone 14, featuring a 6.1-inch OLED display, flat edges, and Face ID. This will be a huge leap from the SE’s current 4.7-inch LCD screen, finally bringing the SE series in line with Apple’s more modern smartphones.
According to display expert Ross Young, the SE 4 will use the same 6.1-inch OLED panel as the iPhone 14, supplied by BOE and LG Display. This means users can expect vibrant colors, deep blacks, and sharp visuals—all at a price that’s more affordable than Apple’s flagship models.
Interestingly, there are also rumors that Apple could be exploring two different sizes for the SE 4. Leaks from Mactakara suggest that there may be both a 6.1-inch model and a larger 6.7-inch SE 4 Plus. While this is still speculative, it’s worth noting that Apple has never released a Plus version of the SE before, and Mactakara itself admits that only one size may be released. Even if a larger model doesn’t make it to market, the new SE is still shaping up to be a huge upgrade from its predecessor.
USB-C Transition
One of the most talked-about updates for the iPhone SE 4 is the shift to USB-C. This move, driven by EU regulations requiring all devices to use a unified charging port, will finally bring the SE in line with the iPhone 15 and other Apple products like the iPad and MacBook. This change will make life easier for users, allowing them to charge multiple devices with the same cable.
The SE 4 will be the last iPhone to transition away from Apple’s proprietary Lightning connector, meaning all future iPhones will now use USB-C. This is a win for consumers, who will no longer need to juggle multiple types of cables.
Major Camera Upgrades
The iPhone SE 4 is expected to bring significant improvements in the camera department. Apple is rumored to equip the SE 4 with the same 48MP rear sensor seen in the iPhone 15, a dramatic upgrade from the 12MP camera found in the current SE model. This leap in camera quality will result in sharper photos, better low-light performance, and the ability to capture more detail than ever before.
The front-facing camera will also get an upgrade, with the SE 4 likely featuring a 12MP selfie camera, up from the 7MP sensor in the previous model. Whether you’re a selfie enthusiast or someone who relies on FaceTime for video calls, this improved camera setup will be a welcome addition.
Apple Intelligence: Bringing AI Features to Budget Devices
One of the biggest surprises in the iPhone SE 4 rumors is its support for Apple Intelligence, Apple’s suite of AI-driven features. According to Mark Gurman from Bloomberg, the SE 4 will likely be powered by the A18 chip with 8GB of RAM, giving it the power to run advanced features that were previously limited to Apple’s flagship models.
Apple Intelligence introduces a range of new tools, including Writing Tools, Photos Clean Up, Genmoji, Image Playground, and a redesigned Siri. By bringing these features to its most affordable iPhone, Apple is ensuring that even budget-conscious consumers can benefit from its cutting-edge AI technology.
Apple’s First In-House Modem
Another groundbreaking feature coming to the iPhone SE 4 is Apple’s first-ever in-house modem. For years, Apple has relied on Qualcomm for its 5G modems, but the SE 4 will mark the debut of Apple’s Centauri modem. This new modem will handle 5G, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GPS, potentially offering a more integrated and efficient experience.
Apple’s move away from Qualcomm is also expected to reduce production costs, which could help keep the price of the SE 4 relatively low despite its impressive feature set.
iPhone SE 4 Pricing: An Affordable Modern iPhone
Rumors suggest that the iPhone SE 4 will start at around $499, a slight increase from the current SE’s $429 price point. While the price is higher, the SE 4 offers far more advanced features, including an OLED display, USB-C, and Apple Intelligence support, making it a great deal for under $500.
If Apple follows its usual strategy, the iPhone 14 may be discontinued upon the SE 4’s release, leaving the iPhone lineup looking like this:
- iPhone SE 4: $499
- iPhone 15: $699
- iPhone 15 Plus: $799
- iPhone 16: $799
- iPhone 16 Plus: $899
- iPhone 16 Pro: $999
- iPhone 16 Pro Max: $1,199
This unified lineup would feature all iPhones with USB-C and a wide range of prices, offering something for everyone. The SE 4, in particular, is shaping up to be an excellent option for those who want the latest tech without paying flagship prices.
Final Thoughts: The iPhone SE 4 is Set to Impress
The iPhone SE 4 is on track to be a game-changer for Apple’s budget lineup. With a design overhaul, major camera upgrades, USB-C, and the inclusion of Apple Intelligence, this phone promises to deliver a flagship-like experience at an affordable price. Whether the rumors about a Plus-sized version turn out to be true or not, the SE 4 will be a massive upgrade over its predecessors.
For those who’ve been holding off on upgrading or are looking for a more budget-friendly iPhone, the iPhone SE 4 will be well worth the wait. With its expected release just six months away, Apple fans have plenty to look forward to in spring 2024.
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