
iPhone SE 4 Rumors: Major Upgrades Expected in Early 2025
CUPERTINO, Calif., Dec. 8, 2024 — Apple fans eagerly awaiting the next iteration of the budget-friendly iPhone SE may not have to wait much longer. According to credible reports from Bloomberg and analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the iPhone SE 4 is slated for an early 2025 release, marking the first update to the SE lineup in three years. Production is expected to begin in December 2024, setting the stage for a launch window in March 2025, aligning with previous SE release schedules.
The iPhone SE 4 is rumored to adopt a design reminiscent of the iPhone 14, signaling a significant departure from the nostalgic home button and smaller screens of past models. This shift would position the SE 4 as a modern and competitive offering in Apple’s lineup, blending affordability with contemporary aesthetics. A larger 6.1-inch display and slim bezels are anticipated, bringing the SE series closer in appearance to its flagship counterparts.
One of the most exciting upgrades is the inclusion of Apple’s latest silicon, which would power AI-driven features under the Apple Intelligence framework. These features could include enhanced Siri interactions, real-time language translation, and advanced photo editing capabilities. Historically, the SE models have borrowed processors from the flagship line, and this trend is expected to continue with the SE 4.
The camera system is another area where the iPhone SE 4 is poised to shine. While its predecessor lacked night mode and trailed competitors like Google’s Pixel 8A and Samsung’s Galaxy A55 5G, the new model is rumored to feature a significant camera upgrade. Night mode, computational photography enhancements, and 5G connectivity are likely inclusions, addressing previous criticisms and raising the bar for budget devices.
Despite the enhancements, Apple is expected to maintain the iPhone SE’s competitive pricing. The current model starts at $429, and while a slight increase may accompany the upgrades, the SE 4 is likely to remain one of the most affordable entry points into the Apple ecosystem. This strategy could help Apple appeal to price-conscious consumers while competing against rivals offering premium features in mid-tier devices.
The iPhone SE series has historically catered to a niche audience seeking affordability and simplicity without sacrificing performance. With the rumored upgrades and design changes, the iPhone SE 4 could broaden its appeal, bridging the gap between budget and flagship devices. As Apple prepares for an early 2025 launch, anticipation is building for what could be the most transformative update to the iPhone SE lineup yet.