If you’re contemplating the purchase of a new iPhone, you’ll discover various exciting choices. Apple’s latest lineup of smartphones, including the iPhone 16 series, features four distinct models, each with its unique benefits and drawbacks. For those not necessarily seeking the latest model, the previous year’s iPhone 15, as well as the iPhone 14 from 2022, remain solid alternatives.

Yet, among these devices, one stands out: the iPhone SE. This model is unique within Apple’s current offerings because it retains the traditional Home button. Its design strongly resembles that of the iPhone 8, which was launched in 2017, and is a throwback to the iPhone 6 from 2014. Consequently, this device features a smaller, lower resolution display than many have come to expect, a single camera that lacks the capabilities of newer models, and subpar battery life for its compact size. In summary, while the iPhone SE might be priced at $429, it is not the best recommendation for anyone looking to purchase an iPhone in 2024.

The primary attraction of the SE model is indeed its price, especially since it debuted in 2022. Apple has utilized the design of a past model (the iPhone 8 in this case), equipped it with a modern processor, while significantly reducing the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). This results in a phone that can perform comparably to Apple’s flagship devices, but at a fraction of the cost. Although the camera performance may not live up to the standards of newer models and the aesthetics feel somewhat outdated, the overall value is compelling.

However, for those desiring a mid-range smartphone, it may be wise to avoid purchasing an iPhone at this time. Rumors suggest that Apple may introduce a new SE model in the spring, which could align perfectly with what you are searching for.

2025: A Promising Year for the SE

According to reports from MacRumors, Apple is currently developing a fourth-generation iPhone SE. The only confirmed feature at this point is a new 5G modem designed by Apple. If this comes to fruition, it would mark the first iPhone to utilize a non-Qualcomm 5G modem, although whether this results in performance improvements remains uncertain. Analysts predict a potential launch by the end of Q1 2025, possibly coinciding with a March reveal, consistent with Apple’s previous pattern for launching the SE 3.

Speculation points to the new iPhone SE 4 featuring impressive specifications. It could host a 6.1-inch OLED display with Face ID capability, a more advanced A-series chip (though the specific model is not confirmed), USB-C functionality, a 48 MP rear camera, 8GB of RAM, and the newly developed 5G modem. This increase in RAM would allow the SE 4 to effectively manage Apple Intelligence, a feature that is clearly significant for Apple, but possibly not for users who previously opted to disable it.

If these anticipated features materialize, it would represent a significant advancement over the current model. The existing SE 3 is equipped with a 4.7-inch 750p LCD, a much smaller and lower resolution display compared to what is being speculated. Additionally, it runs on the A15 Bionic chip—a powerful processor in 2024 that is the same one found in the iPhone 14—includes a Lightning port, a 12 MP rear camera, and has just 4GB of RAM, paired with a Qualcomm 5G modem.

Following the trend of past SE models, the new iteration likely derives its design from the iPhone 14, but with expected enhancements. For instance, the iPhone 14 is limited to 12 MP rear cameras, has 6GB of RAM, features a Lightning port, and does not support Apple Intelligence, whereas the upcoming SE model aims to improve upon these specifications. Although the A15 Bionic chip performs well for iOS 18, the SE 4 will likely benefit from a more recent A-series chip, potentially even the A18 chip from the iPhone 16, or perhaps the A17 chip from the 15 Pro.

Potential Name Change for the iPhone SE 4

Additionally, there are rumors of a name change for the iPhone SE 4. Notable leaker Majin Bu suggests that Apple may consider rebranding it as the iPhone 16E, marketing it as a budget-friendly variant of its latest models rather than an independent line. Supporting this notion is similar commentary from a prominent Chinese account, Fixed Focus Digital.

Anticipated Design Changes for the New iPhone SE

In terms of appearance, leakers have provided insights into what may be the designs of the SE 4. As expected, these models bear a strong resemblance to the iPhone 14, with a couple of notable alterations. According to Majin Bu, the most significant updates include transition to a USB-C port and a single camera lens. The shift to USB-C aligns with EU regulations, making it a necessary upgrade, while the change to a single camera setup could be a cost-saving choice, though if the single lens proves to be more powerful, it could still effectively enhance the device’s camera capabilities.

Removing the Home button marks a significant change, and notably, a notch will replace the previous Dynamic Island feature introduced with the iPhone 15. While the iPhone 14 also included a notch, expectations for completely eliminating this feature have resided with future models rather than the SE 4.

While Majin Bu is not the first person to unveil details about the iPhone SE 4, their findings convey a clearer picture of the device, particularly regarding the notch.

Will Apple Maintain Competitive Pricing?

The perceived value of the new SE will largely depend on its pricing. Ideally, Apple would retain the $429 price point for the SE 4, which represents a slight increase from the previous $399 starting price of earlier SE models. These speculations indicate a well-rounded iPhone that does without some of the premium or “Pro” features such as the Camera button, Action button, expanded zoom lens, titanium chassis, 120Hz ProMotion display, Always-On display, Dynamic Island, and a peak brightness of 2,000 nits. By omitting these extras, which many consumers might find unnecessary, Apple could feasibly price the SE competitively. As of now, however, there is scant information regarding Apple’s approach.

Ultimately, consumers seeking an iPhone generally desire a device capable of seamlessly supporting iMessage, FaceTime, and their favorite applications while delivering excellent photo and video capabilities. The SE has historically performed these tasks admirably, so if the fourth-generation iPhone SE fulfills these expectations, along with an appropriate price point, it may become the ideal iPhone choice for a vast majority of users.