Apple is preparing to launch the highly anticipated iPhone SE 4, a new addition to its smartphone lineup that is expected to arrive within the next few days. The device, positioned as an entry-level model, will reportedly feature a design similar to the iPhone 14 and incorporate high-end specifications that bring it closer to Apple’s premium offerings.
The release of the iPhone SE 4 comes at a strategic moment for Apple, as the company looks to address a recent decline in handset sales. While Apple reported record revenue for its December quarter, overall iPhone sales saw a 1% drop, with a significant 11% decline in the Chinese market. Additionally, the European Union’s regulatory requirements mandating USB-C ports on all new electronic devices have rendered the iPhone 14 and 14 Plus unsellable in the region due to their use of the older Lightning connector. By launching an updated mid-range iPhone equipped with USB-C, Apple aims to boost sales in key markets while maintaining compliance with evolving regulations.
The new iPhone SE 4 is expected to debut without a dedicated Apple event, instead being announced through a press release. This move aligns with Apple’s approach for past SE model launches, prioritizing efficiency and cost-effectiveness over large-scale presentations. Following the announcement, the device is likely to be available for pre-order shortly, with shipments beginning before the end of the month.
One of the most significant advancements in the iPhone SE 4 is Apple’s decision to integrate its in-house cellular modem, marking the company’s first step away from Qualcomm modems. This shift is part of a long-term strategy to reduce reliance on third-party suppliers and develop proprietary hardware solutions. The same modem technology is expected to be included in future Apple devices, including the anticipated iPhone 17 Air.
In terms of hardware, the iPhone SE 4 will feature a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, a departure from the LCD panels used in previous SE models. The design will mirror the iPhone 14, complete with a notch for Face ID authentication, effectively retiring Touch ID from the SE lineup. The device will also be equipped with a single 48MP rear camera, an upgrade from the previous 12MP sensor found in the iPhone SE 3.
Under the hood, the new SE model will be powered by Apple’s A18 chipset, the same processor expected to be used in the iPhone 16 series. With 8GB of RAM, the device will be capable of supporting Apple’s latest artificial intelligence-driven features under the Apple Intelligence branding. This enhancement places the iPhone SE 4 ahead of the iPhone 15 in terms of AI capabilities, further blurring the distinction between mid-range and flagship devices.
Pricing for the iPhone SE 4 is expected to start at approximately $499, positioning it as a competitive alternative to older flagship models. This pricing strategy is designed to attract budget-conscious consumers who seek modern performance without the premium cost of the latest Pro-tier iPhones.
The launch of the iPhone SE 4 also raises questions about Apple’s broader product lineup. With stock of the iPhone SE 3 running low in Apple stores, it is likely that the older model will be discontinued upon the release of its successor. Additionally, dwindling inventory of the iPhone 14 and 14 Plus in the U.S. suggests that Apple may be phasing out these models as well, particularly given their lack of support for Apple Intelligence. If the iPhone 14 is discontinued, the iPhone 15 and 15 Plus will remain as the only non-Pro models without AI capabilities, potentially influencing consumer preferences.
Apple’s product strategy for early 2025 extends beyond the iPhone SE 4. The company is also expected to introduce the second-generation PowerBeats Pro wireless earphones, featuring a built-in heart rate monitor. These earphones could be launched simultaneously with the iPhone SE 4, reinforcing Apple’s push into health-focused wearable technology. Meanwhile, reports indicate that stock shortages of the 10th-generation iPad and the MacBook Air in some locations suggest that updates to these product lines may be imminent, with new models potentially being unveiled in the coming weeks.
