iPhone SE expectations

  iPhone SE 4 with respect to previous SE models 

Apple is announcing the oft-rumoured iPhone SE 4 on February 19, as revealed by CEO Tim Cook. Apple’s forthcoming iPhone SE4 is expected to perform slightly better than previous SE models. Phone SE4 is expected to ship around 12M/10M units in 1H25/2H25, performing slightly better than previous SE models (typically shipped near 20M units annually after launch). Not only does this help smooth out the usual seasonal dip in shipments, but it also boosts the adoption of Apple Intelligence devices. You might be getting a 64GB of storage, if a new leak about the device is accurate. One key feature worth noting is Apple’s in-house modem. Once the model launches, Qualcomm will look into its modem patents, as they believe they might be able to collect some licensing fees to make up for lost orders. Based on the latest murmurs from the rumour mill, here’s what Apple’s fourth generation iPhone SE, sometimes referred to as the “iPhone 16E,” is expected to have:-

RAM: Expected to come with 8GB of RAM, doubling the amount found in the current iPhone SE (2022), which should significantly improve multitasking and performance.

Camera: There’s talk of a single 48MP rear camera, an improvement over the current model, alongside a 12MP front-facing camera. This upgrade would enhance photo quality, particularly in low light, without adding the complexity of multiple lenses.

Chipset: The device is expected to be equipped with Apple’s A18 chip, matching the performance capabilities of the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus. This would be a substantial upgrade, enabling features like Apple Intelligence.

Connectivity: It will likely feature USB-C for charging, in compliance with EU regulations, and might include Apple’s first in-house 5G modem, potentially improving 5G performance and reducing dependency on external modem providers like Qualcomm.

 Battery: The capacity is rumoured to be around 3,279 mAh, a notable increase from the 2,018 mAh in the current SE, suggesting better battery life.

Storage: Base storage might start at 128GB, aligning with recent trends to offer more space as standard.

Other Features: Expected to support Wi-Fi 6, have an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance and might include an Action Button, similar to the one found on some higher-end models.

‎The iPhone SE 4 will be offered in three storage tiers: 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB. In 2025, most Android mid-rangers start at 128GB, but Apple might go another way in order to preserve its profit margins. Not to mention that you could be paying $100 per each storage upgrade, as is the norm with Apple. In that case, expect the 128GB iPhone SE 4 to be $599, and the 256GB model to go for $699. It was said a lot recently that in markets like North America, Google's upcoming Pixel 9a will compete head-on with the iPhone SE 4, since there aren't a lot of good mid-range options over there, but if this rumour pans out then the Pixel 9a might actually be $100 cheaper when you pick the same amount of storage.

Design

The iPhone SE 4 is expected to have a 6.1-inch OLED display with a resolution of 2532 x 1170. This would be a significant upgrade from previous SE models which used LCD panels, offering better contrast and colour reproduction. The design is rumoured to resemble the iPhone 14, featuring flat sides and potentially a notch rather than the older Home button design. It’s also anticipated to include Face ID, moving away from the Touch ID found on previous SE models, providing a more modern and secure unlocking method.

Price

The much-anticipated refresh of the company's cheapest smartphone is expected to start at $499, which is $70 more than its predecessor. Rumours indicate a starting price around $499 to $549, which would be higher than the current iPhone SE but still positioned as a budget-friendly option compared to Apple’s flagship models.