Apple’s next budget iPhone, tentatively called the iPhone SE 4, could launch in 2025 with major upgrades. Based on leaks from The Verge, MacRumors, and analysts like Mark Gurman, here’s a detailed look at what to expect—and why it matters for mid-range buyers.
Rumor Roundup: Key Sources
Before diving in, here’s where the leaks originate:
- Design: The Verge and CAD renders from industry insiders.
- Specs: MacRumors supply chain reports and code snippets in iOS 18.
- Release Date: Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman and Foxconn production timelines.
- Price: Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo and historical SE pricing trends.
Design & Display: A Modern Makeover
The 2025 iPhone SE is rumored to abandon its classic Home Button design for a modern iPhone 14-inspired look. Key rumored changes include:
- 6.1-inch OLED Display: A first for the SE series, potentially featuring a notch for Face ID (replacing Touch ID).
- USB-C Port: Likely included to comply with EU regulations, enabling faster charging and data transfer.
- Sleeker Build: Aluminum frame with a single rear camera, targeting users who want premium design at a lower cost.
Why This Matters: If accurate, this design shift could attract Android switchers seeking an affordable iOS device with modern aesthetics. This move would signal Apple’s intent to dominate the mid-range market by merging budget pricing with flagship design language.
Rumored Specs & Features
| Feature | iPhone SE 4 (Rumored) | iPhone 16 (Rumored) | Pixel 8a (Expected) | Galaxy A55 (Leaked) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Apple A18 Bionic | Apple A18 Pro | Google Tensor G3 | Samsung Exynos 1480 |
| RAM | 8GB | 8GB | 8GB | 6GB/8GB |
| Storage | 128GB/256GB | 128GB/256GB/512GB | 128GB/256GB | 128GB/256GB |
| Display | 6.1″ OLED (60Hz) | 6.1″ OLED (120Hz) | 6.1″ OLED (90Hz) | 6.5″ AMOLED (120Hz) |
| Rear Camera | 48MP (Single) | 48MP + 12MP Ultra-Wide | 64MP + 13MP Ultra-Wide | 50MP + 12MP + 5MP |
| Front Camera | 12MP (Face ID) | 12MP (Dynamic Island) | 10.8MP | 32MP |
| Battery | ~3,500mAh | ~4,000mAh | ~4,500mAh | ~5,000mAh |
| Charging | 20W wired, 15W MagSafe | 30W wired, 15W MagSafe | 30W wired, 18W wireless | 25W wired (no wireless) |
| Biometrics | Face ID | Face ID | Fingerprint sensor | Fingerprint sensor (in-display) |
| Water Resistance | IP68 | IP68 | IP67 | IP67 |
| Software Support | iOS updates until 2030+ | iOS updates until 2031+ | Android updates until 2028 | Android updates until 2028 |
| 5G Support | Yes (Apple modem) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Starting Price | $499 | $799 | $449 | $449 |
Key Takeaways
1️⃣ Performance: iPhone SE 4’s A18 Bionic matches flagship-tier power but lacks ProMotion (120Hz).
2️⃣ Camera: Galaxy A55 offers triple lenses, while iPhones focus on computational photography.
3️⃣ Battery: Android rivals (Galaxy A55, Pixel 8a) have larger batteries but slower software optimization.
4️⃣ Software: iPhones dominate long-term updates (5-6+ years vs. Android’s 3-4 years).
Notes
- All specs for unreleased devices are based on leaks from MacRumors, and SamMobile.
- Battery capacities and charging speeds are estimates.
Leaks suggest Apple’s next budget phone might borrow flagship-tier hardware:
- A18 Bionic Chip: The same processor rumored for the iPhone 16 series (MacRumors), ensuring long-term iOS support. This could position the SE 4 as a performance leader in its price range, outpacing Android rivals like the Pixel 8a’s Tensor G3.
- 8GB RAM: Possibly enabling Apple Intelligence features like advanced Siri and on-device AI.
- 48MP Rear Camera: A significant upgrade over the 12MP sensor in the 2022 model, potentially matching the iPhone 16’s low-light performance. If true, this would address a key weakness of past SE models and challenge Google’s AI-driven photography. Expect computational photography enhancements like Smart HDR 5 and improved Night Mode, though Apple may prioritize simplicity over Pixel-like AI gimmicks.
- Apple’s 5G Modem: In-house technology may replace Qualcomm modems, though delays are possible.
The big question: Will Apple sacrifice its $429 starting price for these upgrades? A $499 price tag risks alienating budget buyers, but the rumored specs might justify the premium.
Release Date: Spring 2025 (With Caveats)
Analysts like Mark Gurman predict a March 2025 launch, aligning with previous SE models. However, Apple’s rumored struggles with its 5G modem could push production to late 2024 (BGR).
Key Takeaway: While a spring 2025 release seems likely, buyers should prepare for potential delays. Apple’s history of component challenges (e.g., Face ID shortages) suggests cautious optimism.
Price: Can Apple Keep It Under $500?
The 2025 SE model is rumored to start at $499, a $70 increase from its predecessor. Here’s how it could stack up:
- Pixel 8a: Google’s mid-ranger may undercut Apple with aggressive pricing (around $449) and AI camera tricks.
- Galaxy A55: Samsung’s contender could offer a 120Hz AMOLED display but weaker software support.
Apple’s Advantage: iOS updates for 5+ years and resale value might justify the higher cost. For context, the iPhone 11 still resells for around $250, while 2020 Android flagships struggle to reach $150.
Competition: How the SE 4 Stacks Up
Spec Comparison – iPhone SE 4 vs. Pixel 8a vs. Galaxy A55
| Feature | iPhone SE 4 (Rumored) | Pixel 8a (Expected) | Galaxy A55 (Leaked) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | A18 Bionic | Tensor G3 | Exynos 1480 |
| Display | 6.1″ OLED | 6.1″ OLED 90Hz | 6.5″ AMOLED 120Hz |
| Camera | 48MP (Single) | 64MP + 13MP | 50MP + 12MP + 5MP |
| Software Support | 5+ years | 3-4 years | 4 years |
The Verdict: The SE 4’s rumored A18 chip and iOS ecosystem could outweigh rivals’ hardware perks for Apple loyalists. However, Samsung and Google’s displays and multi-camera systems may appeal to multimedia-focused users.
Should You Wait for the iPhone SE 4?
If leaks hold true, Apple’s next budget phone will be its most compelling yet. However, with no official confirmation, buyers needing a device now might consider the iPhone 13 or refurbished models.
Pro Tip: Watch for Black Friday deals on older iPhones if you can’t wait until 2025. The iPhone 14, for example, often drops to $599 during sales—close to the SE 4’s rumored price.
FAQ: iPhone SE4 Rumors
A: Leaks suggest yes, but Apple hasn’t confirmed this.
A: Likely IP67/IP68, similar to recent models.
A: Probable, given the iPhone 14-like design.
Final Thoughts: While the iPhone SE 4 remains unconfirmed, its rumored blend of flagship specs and mid-range pricing could redefine Apple’s budget strategy. If successful, it may pressure Android brands to prioritize long-term software support over hardware gimmicks. Stay tuned for updates—and take all leaks with a grain of salt.
Sign up for our newsletter to get the latest iPhone SE 4 updates straight to your inbox!