# The Anticipated iPhone SE 4: What We Know So Far
Apple’s iPhone SE lineup has consistently appealed to budget-conscious individuals seeking the iPhone experience without the premium price tag. Following the release of the iPhone SE 3 in March 2022, chatter about the next version, the **iPhone SE 4**, is now intensifying with an expected launch in **March 2025**. Here’s the latest information we have on Apple’s forthcoming budget-centric iPhone.
## **Confirmed Launch Timeline: March 2025**
A research note from Barclays analyst **Tom O’Malley** indicates that Apple is planning to unveil the iPhone SE 4 in **March 2025**. This insight stems from O’Malley and his team’s visit to electronics manufacturers and suppliers in Asia, where they gleaned details about Apple’s production strategies. This schedule is consistent with prior reports from **Mark Gurman** of Bloomberg, who also noted that Apple is gearing up to commence production of the iPhone SE 4.
## **Key Features and Specifications**
### **1. Fresh Design with Face ID**
A particularly thrilling rumor about the iPhone SE 4 is the possibility of a design refresh. In contrast to the iPhone SE 3, which retained the older aesthetic of the iPhone 8, the SE 4 is anticipated to sport a more contemporary appearance, potentially mirroring the design of the iPhone 14 or iPhone 15 series. This would entail **slimmer bezels**, the elimination of the **Home button**, and the addition of **Face ID** for biometric security.
### **2. Expanded OLED Display**
Another noteworthy enhancement may lie in its display. Speculation suggests that the iPhone SE 4 could include a **6.1-inch OLED display**, marking a significant upgrade from the SE 3’s 4.7-inch LCD. An OLED screen would deliver superior contrast, richer blacks, and more vibrant hues, bringing the SE series closer to flagship iPhone models in terms of visual performance.
### **3. A18 Chip and 8GB of RAM**
In terms of performance, the iPhone SE 4 is rumored to feature the **A18 chip**, the same processor anticipated in the iPhone 16 series. This would position the SE 4 among the most powerful budget smartphones available. Additionally, it’s expected to include **8GB of RAM**, facilitating seamless multitasking and supporting enhanced features such as **Apple Intelligence**.
### **4. 48-Megapixel Rear Camera**
For photography lovers, the iPhone SE 4 might come equipped with a **48-megapixel rear camera**, a substantial upgrade from the SE 3’s 12-megapixel sensor. This would enable higher-resolution photography, superior performance in low light, and enhanced overall image quality. While it may not rival the camera systems of flagship iPhones, it would still represent a considerable enhancement for a budget device.
### **5. 5G Modem**
One of the most fascinating prospects for the iPhone SE 4 is the likelihood of it featuring **Apple’s proprietary 5G modem**. Apple has been developing its own 5G modem to reduce dependency on third-party manufacturers such as Qualcomm. If this rumor holds, the SE 4 could emerge as one of the first iPhones equipped with Apple’s custom 5G modem, potentially offering improved integration and efficiency.
## **Potential Price Increase**
Historically, the iPhone SE series has been recognized for its affordability, but the rumored enhancements in design, display, and performance might drive up the price. The iPhone SE 3 debuted at **$429**, but recent speculation indicates that the iPhone SE 4 may be priced starting from **$499** or possibly **$549**. While this would still represent a significant saving compared to flagship iPhone models (which often begin at over $1,000), it would mark a notable price hike for the SE lineup.
## **Comparison with iPhone 16**
For those contemplating an upgrade to their iPhone, the iPhone SE 4 could present a compelling alternative to the iPhone 16, expected to launch in late 2024. Although the iPhone 16 is likely to boast additional features and refinements, the SE 4 will provide many of the essential functionalities—such as the A18 chip, 5G capabilities, and a modern design—at a greatly reduced cost.
## **Final Thoughts**
The iPhone SE 4 is shaping up to be a noteworthy enhancement over its predecessor, featuring a contemporary design, enhanced performance, and upgraded camera functionalities. Despite the potential price increase prompting some hesitation among consumers, the SE 4 is poised to deliver exceptional value for those in search of a powerful iPhone experience without excessive spending.
As we near 2025, further details are anticipated to surface, but for now, the i
