iPhone SE 4: Everything We Know So Far
Apple is preparing a major upgrade for its budget iPhone lineup with the upcoming iPhone SE (4th generation). Unlike previous SE models, this version is expected to feature a modern design, a larger display, USB-C, and support for Apple Intelligence.
If the rumors are accurate, this could be the biggest redesign in the history of the iPhone SE series.
Brand-New Design
The current iPhone SE (3rd generation) still uses the old iPhone 8-style design with thick bezels and a Home button.
That’s expected to change completely.
The next iPhone SE is rumored to feature:
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An all-screen front design
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Face ID instead of Touch ID
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Slim bezels
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A design similar to the iPhone 14
The display is expected to grow from 4.7 inches to around 6.1 inches, making it dramatically larger than the current model.
USB-C Is Coming
Apple has already transitioned flagship iPhones to USB-C, and the SE 4 is expected to follow the same path.
That means:
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Faster compatibility with accessories
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Easier charging with modern cables
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Better alignment with Apple’s current ecosystem
OLED Display Upgrade
The SE lineup has traditionally used LCD displays, but the new model is expected to adopt OLED technology for the first time.
Benefits include:
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Deeper blacks
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Better contrast
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More vibrant colors
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Improved power efficiency
If true, this would officially mark the end of LCD displays in Apple’s iPhone lineup.
Camera Improvements
To keep costs down, Apple is reportedly sticking with a single rear camera.
However, it may receive a major sensor upgrade:
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48-megapixel main camera
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Similar to the main lens used in newer flagship iPhones
The front camera is also expected to improve with a 12-megapixel sensor inside the notch.
A18 Chip + Apple Intelligence
One of the biggest rumors is that the SE 4 will include the same A18 chip found in the iPhone 16 lineup.
That would allow support for:
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Apple Intelligence
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AI writing tools
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Smarter Siri features
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On-device generative AI capabilities
The device is also expected to include 8GB of RAM, the minimum requirement for Apple Intelligence features.
Apple’s First In-House 5G Modem
Another major change could be the debut of Apple’s own custom 5G modem.
Apple has reportedly been working for years to reduce reliance on Qualcomm, and the SE 4 may become the first iPhone to ship with Apple-designed modem hardware.
Battery Life
The SE 4 is rumored to use the same battery as the iPhone 14:
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3279 mAh capacity
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Potentially much better battery life than previous SE models
Possible New Name
Some rumors suggest Apple could rename the device:
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“iPhone 16e”
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or “iPhone 16E”
However, this naming has not been confirmed.
Expected Price
Despite all the upgrades, Apple is reportedly trying to keep the device affordable.
Expected pricing:
- Starting around $429–$499
That would position it as Apple’s most affordable modern iPhone.
Expected Launch Date
Rumors suggest Apple plans to announce the device during a February launch event.
The unveiling is expected around:
Wednesday, February 19
Bottom Line
The iPhone SE (4th generation) could become one of Apple’s most important products in years—bringing flagship-style design and AI features to a lower price point.
For users still holding older iPhones with Home buttons, this may be the ideal upgrade.