Apple is gearing up for the much-anticipated launch of the iPhone 16 this September, but recent rumors indicate that the upcoming iPhone SE 4, slated for release in spring 2025, will share significant design and manufacturing similarities with the iPhone 16. This strategic alignment may mark a shift in Apple's approach to its budget-friendly SE lineup, offering advanced features typically reserved for its flagship models.
According to a post on Weibo by the leaker "Fixed Focus Digital," the iPhone SE 4 will utilize the same back cover process as the iPhone 16. This revelation suggests that the rear chassis of both models will be nearly identical, a move that aligns with previous CAD renders depicting the SE 4 as the largest SE model yet, with a form factor similar to the iPhone 14.
The design consistency across these models isn't entirely unexpected. Apple's base model iPhones have maintained a relatively stable exterior design from the iPhone 14 through to the anticipated iPhone 16. Therefore, adopting the same back cover assembly process for the iPhone SE 4 could be a practical decision aimed at streamlining production and achieving economies of scale.
In addition to the design similarities, several other features are rumored for the iPhone SE 4, which promise to make it a compelling budget alternative to the iPhone 16. These features include:
- Face ID Support: Moving away from the traditional Touch ID and Home button, the SE 4 is expected to adopt Face ID and a display notch.
- OLED Display: Upgrading from LCD, the SE 4 will likely feature an OLED display, enhancing visual performance.
- USB-C Port: In line with broader industry trends, the SE 4 is expected to replace the Lightning port with a USB-C port.
- Upgraded Chip: The SE 4 is anticipated to include a more advanced processor, ensuring better performance and longevity.
While the iPhone SE 4 may not support the latest Apple Intelligence features, these upgrades position it as a robust, affordable option packed with advanced technology.
Previous rumors had suggested that the iPhone SE 4 would be based on the iPhone 14 chassis. However, the latest leak hints at a shift to the newer backplate process, possibly to align with the production phase-out of the iPhone 14 models. This change might also indicate a redesign of the camera system for the SE 4. Unlike the iPhone 14, which features a diagonal lens setup, the iPhone 16 is expected to have a vertical camera lens arrangement, potentially influencing the SE 4's design to accommodate a dual camera setup.
Apple aims to price the fourth-generation iPhone SE below $500, despite the array of upgrades. This pricing strategy, combined with features like a larger 6.1-inch display and an Action button, could drive significant consumer interest. The current third-generation iPhone SE, released in March 2022, has created pent-up demand for a new model that incorporates some of the latest features from Apple's flagship devices.
