Apple is gearing up to launch its highly anticipated iPhone SE 4, marking the first major refresh of its budget-friendly smartphone line since 2022. The iPhone SE 4 could be the perfect option for those who want modern iPhone features without paying flagship prices. If the leaks are accurate, this will be the most exciting SE model yet, bridging the gap between budget and premium Apple devices.
Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman previously made an announcement that the SE4 launch would be next week, likely via a press release rather than a full-fledged event—Apple’s typical approach for mid-cycle product launches. Tim Cook seemingly has confirmed the SE4 launch date to be February 19th, 2025 but it’s unclear whether or not Apple will have an event because of the hashtag he chose (#AppleLaunch).
Where he mentioned the possibility of an Apple Launch event:
Get ready to meet the newest member of the family.
Wednesday, February 19. #AppleLaunch
While the iPhone SE has traditionally been a budget-conscious alternative to flagship iPhones, this year’s model could bring one of the biggest design overhauls in the lineup’s history.
iPhone SE 4: A Much-Needed Modernization
Leaks and insider reports suggest that the iPhone SE 4 will borrow heavily from the design language of the iPhone 14, ditching the outdated home button in favor of an all-screen OLED display with Face ID. This would mark a significant shift from previous SE models, which clung to the older iPhone 8-style aesthetic.
Expected Features & Upgrades
Here’s what leaks and reports are saying about the iPhone SE 4’s potential upgrades:
- Larger 6.1-inch OLED Display – Replacing the LCD panel from previous SE models, bringing deeper blacks and more vibrant colors.
- Face ID & Notch Design – Moving away from Touch ID and the home button for a more modern, bezel-free look.
- Action Button – First introduced with the iPhone 15 Pro, this customizable button could replace the mute switch, offering new functionality.
- A16 or A17 Chipset – A major performance boost over the A15 chip in the current iPhone SE, making it faster and more power-efficient.
- USB-C Charging – Following EU regulations, the iPhone SE 4 is expected to ditch Lightning for USB-C, aligning with Apple’s latest iPhones.
- Apple’s First In-House 5G Modem? – Apple has reportedly been developing its own 5G modem to reduce reliance on Qualcomm. If included, this would be a major milestone.
- Single 48MP Camera? – While SE models have traditionally used single-lens cameras, some rumors suggest Apple may equip the SE 4 with a higher-resolution 48MP sensor, similar to the iPhone 15.
Why This Release Matters
Apple’s iPhone SE line has been a fan favorite, offering flagship performance at a fraction of the price. However, its aging design and lack of modern features have made it feel increasingly outdated compared to mid-range Android rivals.
With brands like Google’s Pixel 7a, Samsung’s Galaxy A55, and OnePlus Nord 4 offering impressive features at competitive prices, Apple needs the SE 4 to be more than just another recycled design.
Bringing Face ID, a larger OLED display, and USB-C charging to the SE lineup would make it one of the best-value iPhones ever—especially if Apple keeps the price around $500.
Potential Price & Release Date
If Apple follows its past pricing strategy, the iPhone SE 4 could start at $499 for the base 128GB model. The previous SE launched at $429, but the rumored OLED display and Face ID upgrades could justify a small price increase.
As for the release date, Tim Cook has confirmed that Apple will unveil a new device on February 19, 2025. While not officially named, all signs point to this being the iPhone SE 4.
Key Takeaways
- The iPhone SE 4 is expected to launch next week via press release
- The new model will feature a complete design overhaul with notch display
- This release marks the first SE update in nearly three years
Announcement Insights and Expectations
Apple’s upcoming iPhone SE 4 represents a significant shift in design and technology for the budget-friendly iPhone lineup. The device marks the end of an 18-year design era with its move to a modern full-screen interface.
Anticipated Features of iPhone SE 4
The new iPhone SE 4 will feature a 6.1-inch OLED display, marking a major upgrade from its predecessor’s LCD screen. Face ID will replace Touch ID, eliminating the traditional home button.
The device will incorporate Apple’s latest A18 chip, providing substantial performance improvements over the previous generation.
Key specifications include:
- 6.1-inch OLED display
- Face ID authentication
- USB-C port for charging
- 8GB RAM
- Modern full-screen design similar to iPhone 14
Comparative Analysis with Predecessors
The iPhone SE 4 breaks from its predecessors’ dated design language. The removal of the home button creates a more contemporary appearance aligned with Apple’s flagship devices.
The screen size increase from 4.7 inches to 6.1 inches provides 50% more display area than the iPhone SE 3.
The switch to OLED technology delivers:
- Better contrast ratios
- Improved color accuracy
- Reduced power consumption
- Enhanced brightness levels
Market and Release Strategy
Apple plans to announce the iPhone SE 4 through a press release rather than a dedicated event. The launch is expected within the next week, with retail availability later in February 2025.
The starting price is anticipated at $499, positioning it as an accessible entry point to Apple’s ecosystem.
The release timing aligns with Apple’s broader product strategy, falling between the Vision Pro launch and upcoming M4 MacBook Air announcements.
Technology Partnerships and Projections
Apple continues its partnership with Qualcomm for modem chips in the iPhone SE 4, ensuring reliable cellular connectivity.
The A18 chip manufacturing relies on established supply chain relationships, maintaining production efficiency.
Market analysts predict strong demand due to:
- Competitive pricing
- Modern feature set
- Growing market for mid-range smartphones
- Increased consumer interest in OLED displays
Frequently Asked Questions
The iPhone SE 4 brings significant upgrades including a larger OLED display, Face ID technology, and enhanced performance capabilities. The redesigned model marks a major shift from previous SE generations.
What is the anticipated release date for the new iPhone SE model?
Apple plans to announce the iPhone SE 4 in mid-February 2025. The device will likely become available for purchase by the end of February 2025.
Signs point to an announcement as early as next week, followed by a swift market release.
How much is the upcoming iPhone SE expected to cost?
The iPhone SE 4 will start at $499 for the base model. This pricing represents excellent value considering the significant hardware upgrades.
The new pricing strategy keeps the SE line positioned as Apple’s budget-friendly option while offering premium features.
What are the new features to expect in the iPhone SE 4?
The iPhone SE 4 features a 6.1-inch OLED display and removes the Home button in favor of Face ID. The device incorporates the A18 chip for enhanced processing power.
The redesign eliminates the traditional bezels for a modern, edge-to-edge screen experience.
Will the iPhone SE 4 support 5G networks?
The iPhone SE 4 includes 5G connectivity as a standard feature. This enables faster download speeds and improved network performance compared to 4G LTE.
Users can access both sub-6GHz and mmWave 5G networks where available.
What improvements in battery life are anticipated with the iPhone SE 4?
The larger form factor allows for a bigger battery capacity. The efficient A18 chip helps extend battery life during daily use.
The OLED screen technology reduces power consumption compared to LCD displays.
How will the iPhone SE 4 compare to its predecessors in terms of performance?
The A18 chip provides a substantial performance boost over the previous SE model. Graphics capabilities see major improvements for gaming and AR applications.
The new processor handles multitasking and demanding apps with greater efficiency.
Memory management receives an upgrade, allowing more apps to stay active in the background.
