Why it matters: The leaked details of the iPhone SE 4 suggest a significant shift in Apple’s strategy for its budget smartphone line. If accurate, these changes could democratize access to advanced features previously reserved for higher-end models, potentially disrupting the mid-range smartphone market and forcing competitors to reassess their offerings. Recent leaks have shed new light on Apple’s upcoming iPhone SE 4, suggesting significant upgrades that could redefine the company’s budget smartphone offering.
Design Leaks:
According to leaked CAD renders and case designs shared by reliable tipsters like Macotakara, the iPhone SE 4 appears to be adopting a design similar to the iPhone 14, according to BGR. This represents a major departure from the current SE’s dated look, featuring:
- A notched display, likely indicating the adoption of Face ID
- Flat edges, aligning with Apple’s current design language
- A larger camera cutout hinting at potential camera improvements (Forbes)
Leaked Specifications:
Several leaks point to impressive internal upgrades:
- Display: A 6.1-inch OLED screen, marking the SE’s first move away from LCD technology
- Processor: Rumors suggest it could feature the A18 chip, matching the iPhone 16 series
- RAM: 8GB of RAM, a significant boost from the current model’s 4GB
- Storage: Leaks indicate options of 128GB and 512GB
- Camera: A potential upgrade to a 48-megapixel main sensor
Apple Intelligence Support:
Perhaps most surprisingly, leaks suggest the iPhone SE 4 might support Apple Intelligence, the company’s new AI feature set. This would require the A18 chip and 8GB of RAM, potentially making the SE 4 more capable than some current flagship models.
Potential Features:
While not confirmed, some leaks hint at additional features:
- USB-C port, replacing Lightning
- Possible inclusion of an Action button, similar to the iPhone 15 Pro models
Release and Pricing:
Leaks point to a potential release in spring 2025, with a rumored starting price of around $499. While these leaks come from sources with good track records, they should still be treated as unconfirmed until Apple makes an official announcement.
